North Carolina Sports Betting: Legal NC Sportsbooks Dec. 2024
Sports betting is now live in the Tar Heel state, featuring some of the best sportsbooks in the country including FanDuel, bet365, and DraftKings. For the first time, residents can wager on the NFL, college football, and more at legal online North Carolina sportsbooks! Stay tuned as we evaluate each sportsbook, and provide you with all of the information you'll need to know.
North Carolina betting sites
Features
- Some of the best live-betting odds.
- Great deposit options.
- Earn MGM Rewards from betting activity.
BetMGM Review
New users in North Carolina who register for an account with BetMGM can claim their welcome bonus of $200 in bonus bets with the bonus code SBR200.
21+ only. NC only. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
Features
Features
- Extensive live betting options.
- More markets than any other sportsbook.
- One of the best apps in the industry.
bet365 Review
Terms and conditions: Deposit required. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits, and exclusions apply.
New bet365 users in North Carolina can claim a choice of two offers: bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets OR up to $1,000 First Bet Safety Net. You can only claim one of the two options.
21+ only. Gambling Problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov
Features
Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts
New users only. Must use promo code. Min. $10 deposit. Max. additional winnings $2.5K per token. Tokens expire in 14 days. Void where prohibited. Full terms.
Features
- Earn Caesars Rewards from betting activity.
- Live streaming of NFL games.
- User-friendly mobile app.
Caesars Review
The welcome offer for new U.S. customers is ten (10) 100% Profit Boost Tokens after any bet of $1 or more on Caesars. Ensure you use the active Caesars promo code — SBRBONUSDYW — to claim the offer.
21+ only. NC only. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
Features
Features
- Top-tier app experience.
- Same Game Parlays and SGP+.
- Extensive promos and odds boosts.
FanDuel Review
New users in North Carolina who sign up for an account with FanDuel Sportsbook will receive a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets welcome offer. Users will need to make a first-time deposit of $5+ and place their first bet of at least $5. The wager must win in order to collect the bonus bets.
21+ and present in NC. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
Features
Features
- Live in 21 states
- Extremely powerful brand history and recognition
- FanCash reward system is great for sports fans
Fanatics Sportsbook Review
New Fanatics customers in North Carolina can claim up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets
21+ only. Gambling Problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov
Features
Features
- Lots of promos and odds boosts.
- Wide range of sports and bet types.
- Seamless integration with DFS.
DraftKings Review
New customers with DraftKings can place an initial deposit and wager of $5 or more on any sports market to receive $200 in bonus bets, win or lose. The reward will be delivered as eight (8) $25 bonus bets that are non-withdrawable, non-transferable, non-refundable, and will expire after seven days.
Check out our resource for the latest DraftKings promo code. The offer is available until Nov. 17, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
21+ only. Gambling Problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
Features
Quick links On this page
- Legal North Carolina online sportsbooks
- Top North Carolina sportsbooks reviewed
- Is sports betting legal in North Carolina?
- NC sports betting summary
- Notable North Carolina sports betting developments
- Overview of sports betting in NC
- North Carolina retail sportsbooks
- North Carolina sports betting law
- North Carolina sports betting neighbors
- How to bet on sports in North Carolina
- North Carolina teams to bet on
- Deposit and withdrawal methods for online NC sportsbooks
- Other legal betting options in North Carolina
- What’s Not Legal in NC
- NC Sportsbooks to Avoid
- North Carolina sports betting FAQs
Legal North Carolina online sportsbooks
Mobile sports betting is legal in North Carolina. Sports wagering regulations allow for up to 12 online sportsbooks, and there are currently eight available. Here are the online sportsbooks and betting apps that have launched in NC.
🏆 NC sportsbook | Welcome bonus 💰 | ✅ Promo code |
---|---|---|
⭐ FanDuel | Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets | No code required |
⭐ Caesars | Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts | SBRBONUSDYW |
⭐ bet365 | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets or $1,000 first bet | SBRBONUS |
⭐ DraftKings | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets | No code required |
⭐ BetMGM | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets | SBRBONUS |
⭐ Fanatics | Up to $1,000 in bonuses | No code required |
⭐ ESPN BET | Up to $2,000 in bonuses | No code required |
⭐ Underdog | 100% first deposit match up to $100 | No code required |
Top North Carolina sportsbooks reviewed
FanDuel North Carolina Sportsbook 🔵
Due to the age-old FanDuel vs. DraftKings debate, North Carolina bettors may already be familiar with the former's line of DFS contests. FanDuel's partnership with the PGA Tour, coupled with the fact that it's licensed in every other state where sports betting is legal, certainly propelled the sportsbook towards receiving a North Carolina betting license.
What some novice sports bettors may not realize is that despite DraftKings large marketing budget, their app ratings actually rank behind FanDuel’s. Apple and Android users rated the app a 4.8 and 4.7, respectively, slightly ahead of DK. These two continue to go toe-to-toe for online betting market share.
However, what sets it apart are exclusive deals with professional sports leagues, live in-game video streaming of the day’s biggest events, same game parlays, and loyalty rewards. You can’t go wrong if you sign-up with FanDuel.
Currently, FanDuel is giving new users in North Carolina a chance to get started with minimal investment. Simply register a new account, deposit $5 or more, and place a wager of at least $5. If your first bet wins, you will earn $150 in bonus bets.
21+ and present in NC. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
North Carolina Sportsbook: FanDuel Review and FanDuel Promo Code
FanDuel | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐(41K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐(267K reviews) |
💸 Welcome bonus | Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets |
🏆 Best feature | Same-Game Parlay+ |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download size | 142.4 MB |
🗺 States active | 22 + DC |
Caesars North Carolina Sportsbook 🏛
New users only. Must use promo code. Min. $10 deposit. Max. additional winnings $2.5K per token. Tokens expire in 14 days. Void where prohibited. Full terms.
Caesars Sportsbook and sports betting app are among the highest-rated products in the United States. The same Caesars that you may have frequented in Sin City now offers the opportunity to wager on sports in more than a dozen states. Caesars has also partnered with the Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission, meaning wagers can be placed with Caesars at one of the state's three land-based casinos.
It would have been quite shocking if Caesars was NOT one of the first sports betting sites licensed by North Carolina regulators. Their app provides an incredible user experience, and customer support is easy to connect with on your time. Payouts take as little as just a few days. An official partnership with the NFL allows football live-streaming, making Caesars one of the best NFL parlay betting sites.
Caesars is also rolling out the welcome mat, allowing new users to get 10x 100% Profit Boosts when they bet $1 or more on any sports market. To collect, just use our unique Caesars Sportsbook promo code SBRBONUSDYW when you register.
North Carolina Sportsbook: More info on our Caesars Sportsbook Review
Caesars | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.6/5.0 ⭐ (55K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.2/5.0 ⭐ (23K reviews) |
✅ Caesars Sportsbook promo code | SBRBONUSDYW |
💸 Welcome bonus | Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts |
🏆 Best feature | Frequent odds boosts |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download Size | 226.7 MB |
🗺 States active | 22 (+DC) |
bet365 North Carolina Sportsbook 🟢
bet365, a well-known sportsbook headquartered in the U.K., is set to launch in its 10th state. In order to gain entry into North Carolina, a partnership with the Charlotte Hornets was established.
Bettors from North Carolina can expect a fairly smooth experience once bet365 begins to accept wagers. Frequent odds boosts, including multi-sport parlay boosts, are a hallmark of bet365's success and will keep you coming back for more.
This also includes welcome offers such as one of bet365's two registration bonuses. Simply create an account, enter the bet365 bonus code SBRBONUS during sign-up, and redeem one of two available registration offers. New users can either bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets OR receive up to $1,000 First Bet Safety Net. You can only claim the bet365 welcome bonus in the mobile app.
North Carolina Sportsbook: bet365 Review and bet365 bonus Code
bet365 | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐(81K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.5/5.0 ⭐(82K reviews) |
✅ bet365 bonus code | SBRBONUS |
💸 Welcome bonus | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets |
🤑 Alternative welcome bonus | Up to $1,000 First Bet Safety Net |
🏆 Best feature | Frequent odds boosts |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download size | 45.3 MB |
🗺 States active | 11 |
DraftKings North Carolina Sportsbook 👑
DraftKings Sportsbook made a name for itself over the past decade thanks to its industry-leading daily fantasy sports contests. DK's in-state DFS presence, in addition to its partnership with NASCAR, resulted in the sportsbook becoming one of the first few operators to earn a North Carolina sports betting license.
DraftKings sports betting app is often credited with being one of the top-rated apps available in the United States, thanks to its best-in-class user experience and easy-to-contact customer service team. The number of micro-betting options can't be ignored, as it's arguably DraftKings' best feature. Once you’re ready to cash out, the withdrawal process is seamless with most payouts hitting your account in less than a few business days.
New users of the North Carolina DK online sportsbook have the opportunity to earn $150 in bonus bets, thanks to DraftKings' newest welcome offer.
North Carolina Sportsbook: DraftKings Review and DraftKings Promo Code
DraftKings | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐ (5K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.6/5.0 ⭐ (129K reviews) |
💸 Welcome bonus | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets |
🏆 Best feature | Loads of micro-betting options |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download size | 466.3 MB |
🗺 States active | 25 |
BetMGM North Carolina Sportsbook 🦁
Unlike FanDuel and DraftKings, the next two approved mobile sportsbook operators got their start in the Las Vegas desert. BetMGM has built a quality reputation on its retail casino, sportsbook and shows, but quickly became a fan favorite once it launched superior iOS and Android sports betting apps.
BetMGM’s online sportsbook and sports betting app provides players odds for all the major sports leagues – NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL – as well as odds for international sports like European soccer leagues, international tennis tournaments, and PGA tour events. It also caters to those looking for odds on the next UFC main event, heavyweight boxing bouts, and niche leagues like MLS and WNBA. It's also one of the best prop betting sites on the market today, and boasts a very generous rewards program.
The self-proclaimed “King of Parlays” offers more parlay options than any other site (or so they say). Eligible new users from North Carolina can take advantage of up to $1,500 in bonus bets by using our promo code SBRBONUS. New users must place a qualifying wager of up to $1,500, and if their bet loses, they'll be awarded bonus bets equal to the amount lost.
North Carolina Sportsbook: BetMGM review and BetMGM bonus code.
BetMGM | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.8/5.0 ⭐ (186K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.1/5.0 ⭐ (25K reviews) |
💸 Welcome bonus | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets |
🏆 Best feature | Excellent rewards program |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💵 Payout speed | Within 48 hours |
⬇ Download size | 114.3 MB |
🗺 States active | 22 (+DC and PR) |
Fanatics North Carolina Sportsbook 🧢
Merchandising giants Fanatics are bursting onto the legal sports betting scene in a big way. After acquiring the U.S. business of Australian-based PointsBet, Fanatics is launching in more and more states all the time. It secured entry into North Carolina by partnering with the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes.
With a 4.7 sports betting app rating from Apple users and 4.6 from those using Android devices, Fanatics’ street cred is up there with industry leaders like DraftKings and FanDuel. Its apparel partnerships with every major North American sports league prove it already knows the sports industry inside and out.
Its addition of a legal online sportsbook has come pretty seamlessly. Fanatics is best known for its FanCash rewards program. It gives users a percentage of every bet back as FanCash, which can be cashed in for hats, jerseys, and other merchandise.
Fanatics' North Carolina registration offer is live, awarding up to $1,000 in bonuses that will be distributed over ten days (a bonus bet match of up to $100 every day). To activate this offer, bettors must opt in daily (except day one) and place qualifying bets of $1 or more (-500 odds or longer). The amount of the qualifying wager (up to $100 per day) will be matched if the daily bet loses, for a total bonus of up to $1,000 over those ten days.
North Carolina Sportsbook: Fanatics review and Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.
Fanatics | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐ (10.3K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.6/5.0 ⭐ (1.2K reviews) |
💸 Welcome bonus | Up to $1,000 in bonuses |
🏆 Best feature | FanCash Rewards |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download size | 305.6 MB |
🗺 States active | 21 |
Other top NC sportsbooks to consider 👈
The North Carolina sportsbooks listed above may be the ones we found to be the strongest, but there are other worthwhile options to consider as well.
ESPN BET is a solid alternative. Hallmarks include a sleek mobile app and plenty of daily odds boosts. Previous customers of Barstool Sportsbook, which became ESPN BET, can seamlessly transition to the new platform. New users get up to $2,000 in bonuses when they sign up with our ESPN BET promo code.
Underdog Sports has also secured a North Carolina license and is well-known to some North Carolina bettors thanks to its presence as a DFS platform. The registration bonus is generous and the wide variety of betting markets is a crowd-pleaser.
Is sports betting legal in North Carolina?
Legal online sports betting is now live in North Carolina, with eight legal online sportsbooks and three retail sportsbooks available within state lines. Allow us to help you learn everything you need to know to get started.
For a deeper look at the legal status of sports betting in all 50 U.S. states, check out our legal sports betting state tracker.
NC sports betting summary
North Carolina sports betting apps and websites are live and taking bets from those who qualify. Refer to the table below for further details.
🚀 Online sports betting launch date | Mar. 11, 2024 |
➡️ Legal betting age | 21+ |
🔔 NC regulator | N.C. State Lottery Commission |
📱 Online sports betting & licenses | 8 legal sportsbooks (max. 12) |
📚 Current legal sportsbooks | bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Fanatics, FanDuel, Underdog Sports |
✅ Approved betting options | Online & retail (3 locations) sports betting, horse racing, daily fantasy sports (DFS) |
❌ Illegal betting options | Online casino games, online poker, politics, eSports |
🌎 Population est | 10.5 million |
Notable North Carolina sports betting developments
📅 Sept. 20, 2024: DraftKings moves the welcome offer to $200 in bonus bets.
📅 Feb. 24, 2024: Pre-registration is confirmed to be Mar. 1 - Mar. 11 at noon ET.
📅 Jan. 30, 2024: Caesars Entertainment announces they have secured access to mobile sports betting in North Carolina via a partnership with the Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise.
📅 Jan. 24, 2024: North Carolina State Lottery Commission adopts sports wagering authorization for noon on March. 11, 2024.
📅 Jan. 7, 2024: BetMGM signs an agreement with Charlotte Motor Speedway, ensuring the sportsbook will launch when online sports betting does in North Carolina.
in North Carolina, reaching an agreement with the NBA's Charlotte Hornets.
📅 May 30, 2023: North Carolina continues its movement toward legal online sports betting after the Senate Finance Committee approves HB 347, keeping the bill on track to reach the Senate floor.
📅 Mar. 29, 2023: HB 347 passes through the House on the back of a 69-44 vote and moves on to the Senate.
📅 Jun. 22, 2022: Amendments are made to SB 688, including the removal of betting on college sports, and it fails to pass by a single vote, 51-50. Sports betting will not be legal in North Carolina any time soon.
📅 Nov. 4, 2021: Senate Bill 688 passes the House Commerce Committee but still has three more committees to get through.
📅 Aug. 19, 2021: After four months, SB 688 passes the Senate and moves on to the House.
📅 Apr. 7, 2021: Sens. Jim Perry and Paul Lowe introduce SB 688, which would legalize online sports betting in the state.
📅 Mar. 12, 2020: Controversy swirls as the U.S. Department of the Interior allows Catawba Nation to build a casino that will permit sports betting. This became the third retail sportsbook in the state.
📅 Jul. 26, 2019: Gov. Roy Cooper signs SB 154 into law, amending GS 14-292.2 to classify sports betting and horse race wagering as 'Class 3' games that are legally permitted to exclusively operate on Eastern Band of Cherokee tribal lands.
Overview of sports betting in NC
Wagers can be made online or in-person at one of the Tar Heel state's three land-based casinos. Here is some key information to remember before placing a wager:
Mobile sports betting 📱
Bettors within North Carolina can now participate in mobile sports betting from anywhere within state lines! The days of mandatory visits to brick-and-mortar sportsbook locations are gone, as even remote registration is conveniently available. All you need to do is provide government-issued identification to verify your account and you're all set.
Retail sportsbooks 🏢
Those who wish to place their bets in a traditional manner will still have the option of using retail sportsbooks. There are currently three locations throughout the state, with two being owned and operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) as well as a third by the Catawba Nation tribe. The EBCI runs Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee, NC) and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino (Murphy, NC) while the Catawba Nation tribe has the Catawba Nation Two Kings Casino (Kings Mountain, NC).
Age and state requirements 🎂
Any U.S. citizen who is 21 or older can legally wager on professional and college sports. To prove your identity and citizenship, you will be required to submit verification documents — which can include any valid piece of government-issued identification such as a passport or driver's license. Most sportsbooks have very sophisticated geo-tracking technology, meaning you will automatically be stopped if you try to place a wager while physically outside of state lines.
Taxable winnings 💸
Any bettor within North Carolina must pay tax on any profits made. The exact tax rate is subjective, based on a variety of factors including your personal income tax bracket and cumulative amount won. SBR has seen it range from 4.75% all the way up to 6%. To make things easier on yourself come filing season, we recommend keeping track of any winnings throughout the calendar year. Most apps will be able to help you with that, as all settled bets are typically tabbed within your bet slip.
North Carolina retail sportsbooks
Retail sports betting was already legal in North Carolina. The state’s governor, Roy Cooper, signed a bill into law back in July of 2019 legalizing retail sports betting on tribal lands.
In the following years, North Carolina politicians tried desperately to pass a sports wagering bill to avoid losing tax money to neighboring states. They finally succeeded with Gov. Cooper signing bill HB 347 into law on June 14, 2023.
The legislation allows for up to 12 licenses, but only eight were spoken for when North Carolina sports betting apps went on March 11, 2024.
To date, only three retail sportsbooks are available:
NC land-based sportsbook | Operator | Location |
---|---|---|
🏇 Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort | Eastern Band of Cherokee | Cherokee, NC |
🏇 Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino | Eastern Band of Cherokee | Murphy, NC |
🏇 Catawba Nation Two Kings Casino | Catawba Nation tribes | Kings Mountain, NC |
North Carolina sports betting law
North Carolina first made significant strides toward legal online sports betting on Apr. 7, 2021, when a pair of Senators, Jim Perry and Paul Lowe, initially introduced SB 688, which would have legalized online sports betting within state lines. After passing through both the Senate and the House, amendments were made and the bill failed to pass the final stages by a single vote (51-50).
Just under nine months later, on Mar. 13, 2023, Rep. Jason Saine introduced HB 347, which would authorize the legalization of up to 12 online sportsbooks and eight retail sportsbooks. After passing through the House in overwhelming favor (68-45 vote), Gov. Roy Cooper officially signed HB 347 into law on Jun. 14, 2023.
As of March 11, 2024, North Carolina bettors are now able to place sports wagers online from anywhere within state limits, including bets on in-state college teams! To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years of age or older.
Each sportsbook is paired with a professional sports organization, with current partnerships including big names such as:
- Charlotte Hornets
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Carolina Panthers
- McConnell Gold
- NASCAR
- PGA Tour
- Quail Hollow Club
North Carolina sports betting neighbors
South Carolina and Georgia have yet to legalize online sports betting; however, other neighbors did manage to beat the Tar Heel State to the punch. On the bright side, North Carolina will finally stop losing tax revenue, as residents were previously making quick trips to neighboring states where online sports betting was already legal.
Tennessee sports betting operators went live in 2020 and now feature 12 mobile sportsbook options.
Virginia sports betting followed suit in 2021, with the current market offering bettors 15 online sportsbooks and sports betting apps to choose from.
Kentucky sports betting finally became legal in 2023. Presently, there are only eight online sportsbooks, but that number could easily grow as up to 27 licenses are up for grabs.
How to bet on sports in North Carolina
Whether you’re eager to bet on the Panthers to win Super Bowl 59, Duke to win the ACC in basketball, North Carolina State to win the ACC in football, or ready to crown the Hurricanes Stanley Cup champions and back up that confidence with your wallet, this step-by-step guide will walk you through how to get started now that online sportsbooks have launched in North Carolina.
1. Select a sportsbook licensed in North Carolina
The first step is to find an online sportsbook that suits your needs as a sports bettor. Lucky for you, SBR’s team of experts independently reviews dozens of legal online sportsbooks and sports betting apps. Be sure to read through the top-rated operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM and Caesars.
Once you’ve found a sports betting app you like, be sure to download it to your Apple or Android phone or tablet.
2. Register online
The next step is to register for a new account. This process has been streamlined in recent years and should take less than five minutes to complete. The operator will require you to provide some basic personal information like your full name, full home address, email address, date of birth, and Social Security Number. The SSN is used for several reasons including age and identification verification, but also helps cut down on fraudulent accounts being created in your name/email and abuse of welcome bonuses.
You’ll likely receive a verification email from the operator to authorize and activate your account.
Before you can proceed, create a unique username and strong password. The password is a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters which is typically 8+ characters long.
3. Deposit
After you complete the registration process, it’s time to fund your account. Visit the operator’s cashier page where you’ll sync your account wallet with your preferred banking method. This used to be the most painful friction point of online sports betting, but state regulators have become experts on making first deposits quick and easy. You’ll have several options to fund your sportsbook wallet from major credit and debit cards, to bank wire transfers and third-party wallets like PayPal and Skrill.
4. Select and finalize your bet
You’ve created your account, have a strong password, made a first deposit and claimed your welcome bonus. Now you’re ready to start betting! First, you’ll want to get acquainted with the layout of your new sportsbook and sports betting apps. Be sure to review all the betting markets and bet types available. Novice players should probably stick to sports they know and the three most popular bet types: moneylines, point spreads and point totals. Expert bettors can expand their horizons by dipping their proverbial toes into live in-game betting, parlays and same-game parlays.
Once you’ve built a bet slip, you can finalize your wager (or wagers) and click 'Submit' to officially enter your bet slip.
5. Win and withdraw your payout
Once you’ve strung together some wins and built up a lofty profit in your sportsbook wallet, you may want to request a withdrawal. To do this, simply visit the cashier – the same place where you made a first deposit – and request a payout. Banking methods on withdrawals vary by operator, but most allow for bank wire transfers and third-party transactions via PayPal and Venmo. If you do request a check by mail, keep in mind it could take up to 15 business days whereas digital payouts take less than 5 business days (on average) to clear.
North Carolina teams to bet on
The North Carolina sports heartbeat is strong, with teams like the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, and the Carolina Hurricanes calling it home. With the recent green light on sports betting, game days are about to get even more electric.
Fans can now back their favorite teams with more than cheers, as betting adds a new dimension to their support.
The recent legislation isn't just about placing bets online. It's about bringing the action closer to the heart of the game. With provisions allowing for retail sportsbooks within 1.5 miles of the state's major professional sports venues, fans can soon experience the thrill of betting almost right next to their favorite team's home turf.
This close-knit setup will foster unique partnerships between teams and betting operators. Think special game-day promotions, exclusive bets, and more, all centered around North Carolina's beloved teams. Just remember to bet with your head, not your heart, when it comes to your favorite hometown team.
Carolina Panthers 🏈
The Carolina Panthers have had their share of highs and lows. They've been on the cusp of Super Bowl glory twice, but the Vince Lombardi Trophy remains elusive. The addition of Bryce Young in the 2023 NFL Draft brought optimism, but the Panthers finished with a league-worst 2-15 record.
Carolina hired first-time head coach Dave Canales this offseason and used draft capital to add skill-position players like Xavier Legette, Jonathan Brooks, and Ja'Tavion Sanders. The Panthers may not be in line to win it all next season, but it seems the franchise is moving in the right direction.
Charlotte Hornets 🏀
The Charlotte Hornets, once under the watchful eye of basketball legend Michael Jordan, have navigated a sea of challenges. With MJ's 13-year reign as the majority owner now in the rearview, the team's journey has been marked by stretches of mediocrity. Their last playoff appearance was in 2016.
Charlotte missed the playoffs in the 2023-24 season, but rookie Brandon Miller was a bright spot, averaging the second-most points per game among first-year players. The Hornets have the sixth pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, giving the team an opportunity to pair another young player with Miller and LaMelo Ball.
Carolina Hurricanes 🏒
The 'Canes clinched the Stanley Cup in 2006 and have been chasing that high since. An impressive 52-21-9 record in 2022-23 took them deep into the Eastern Conference Finals.
Carolina won 52 games again in 2023-24 and earned a series victory in the first round of the NHL playoffs. However, the happiness was short-lived, as the Hurricanes were bounced in round two. 'Canes fans will have to wait until next season to see if the team can recapture Stanley Cup glory.
College Sports 🎓
We can't talk about North Carolina sports teams without mentioning NCAA basketball. The state is home to some of the best and most storied schools in the history of college hoops. The University of North Carolina Tar Heels command much of the attention, but the NC State Wolfpack, Duke Blue Devils, and Wake Forest Demon Deacons all boast formidable programs. There may not be a more heated college basketball region in the entire country.
SBR North Carolina pro tip
There is one piece of advice all novice sports bettors should keep in mind. In my experience, wagering on your favorite hometown team isn't always the best move. It’s often smarter to bet with your brain than with your heart, as only wagering on your favorite Carolina teams is the quickest way to drain your bankroll.
Do your homework before the Panthers' next game: What is the weather going to be like? Are there any injuries that could impact the final score, and have any depth chart changes impacted the opposing team?
North Carolina betting partners
North Carolina state regulations also require each sportsbook to form a partnership with either an in-state professional sports team (like the ones listed above) or a league/tournament such as NASCAR or the PGA Tour. Select sports-related locations count as well, including auto racing tracks and golf courses. Refer to the table below to discover the partners that North Carolina sportsbooks have paired up with so far.
📚 NC sportsbook | 🤝 Partner |
---|---|
📗 bet365 | 🦟 Charlotte Hornets |
📙 BetMGM | 🏎️ Charlotte Motor Speedway |
📕 Caesars | ♠️ Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission |
📗 DraftKings | 🏁 NASCAR |
📕 ESPN BET | 🪵 Quail Hollow Club |
📘 Fanatics | 🌀 Carolina Hurricanes |
📘 FanDuel | 😺 Carolina Panthers & PGA Tour |
📙 Underdog | ⛳ McConnell Golf |
Deposit and withdrawal methods for online NC sportsbooks
Most online North Carolina sportsbooks offer a variety of payment methods for deposits and withdrawals. Some payment options can be used for both, whereas some are only meant to deposit with and vice versa. Here are some of the different types of payment methods made available by North Carolina sportsbooks. Remember, not every sportsbook will accept every type of payment method.
💵 Payment method | 💳 Deposit | 🏦 Withdrawal |
---|---|---|
Debit card | ✅ | ❌ |
Mastercard | ✅ | ❌ |
Visa | ✅ | ❌ |
Online banking | ✅ | ✅ |
Wire transfer | ✅ | ❌ |
PayPal | ✅ | ✅ |
PayNearME | ✅ | ❌ |
Prepaid | ✅ | ✅ |
eCheck | ✅ | ✅ |
Check | ✅ | ✅ |
North Carolina sports betting and the taxman
House Bill 347 charges a $1,000,000 licensing fee from each approved online sportsbook operator. Each legal sports betting site and/or app would be charged a 14% privilege tax on net gambling revenues. The tax is projected to generate nearly $43 million of extra revenue for the state by 2027-28.
Individual bettors will also have their winnings taxed. The exact rate is subject to which source you use. SBR has seen it range from 4.75% all the way up to 6%. However, individual bettors can offset their tax liability by keeping clean and accurate records of their betting activity, since losses can reduce one’s tax burden when it’s time to file.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper is on record saying that sports betting belongs in the Tar Heel State. In an interview, he said, “It’s here whether we like it or not. It is about time for us to step up and do it.”
Other legal betting options in North Carolina
Traditional sports betting isn't the only way to get in on the wagering action in North Carolina. Allow us to break down the other options available for those looking to try their hand at something different.
College sports (NCAA) ✅
The latest bill, HB 347, allows sports betting on all professional and collegiate sports in the state. This means action on Wake Forest football, North Carolina State basketball, and the next Appalachian State feel-good story is eligible.
Their rivalry may not be what it once was, but Duke versus North Carolina college basketball remains a hot ticket in the Tar Heel State. Tobacco Road matchups on the hardcourt are often the most bet-on sporting events during the basketball season. Past versions of proposed sports betting bills prohibited wagering on college sports in and out of state.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) ✅
Daily fantasy sports is offered by operators like DraftKings and FanDuel as this variety of sports betting is technically already legal in North Carolina. While a specific bill was never passed regulating the DFS contests, bettors in the state may compete in daily fantasy competitions whenever they want and this will not change with the passing of HB 347.
Check out our full guy to the best DFS sites.
Horse racing ✅
Unfortunately, there are no physical race tracks located in North Carolina. That said, HB 347 permits pari-mutuel wagering at off-track betting (OTB) sites, available at any of the three retail casinos within state lines.
Casino ✅
There are three retail casinos for North Carolina bettors to attend if they wish to play any traditional casino games including slots and table games. This is currently the only available in-state option for casino games, as online casinos are not yet legal.
Poker ✅
Just like all other casino games, poker is only legal at one of the three approved land-based casinos. Beware of online poker sites that may claim to be legal in North Carolina, as that's not allowed at this point in time.
State Lottery ✅
The North Carolina Education Lottery was established in 2005, and continues to offer many fun draws that state residents can enter including a weekly 'Powerball' and 'Mega Millions'. There are also daily draws including 'Lucky for Life', 'Pick 3', 'Pick 4', and 'Cash 5'. State law dictates that all proceeds must directly support local causes including education as well as financial aid for college students and at-risk youth.
What’s missing from North Carolina sports betting?
Based on a general overview of HB 347’s contents, it appears most sports will be available to bet on by North Carolina players. However, as is the case with every other state where sports betting has been legalized, there are a few categories that will be off limits indefinitely.
Politics ❌
You can’t bet on political events in any state where sports betting is legal. This is a federal as well as a state level regulation. So, you will not be able to find odds to win the 2024 U.S. presidential election at any North Carolina sportsbook presently or in the future.
Entertainment award ceremonies ❌
Duke basketball entertained us with their own version of HBO’s Succession when Coach K finally retired and handed down the Blue Devils’ kingdom to Jon Scheyer. Still, it’s not legal to take your knowledge of HBO’s blockbuster series and wager on the cast to win an Emmy. Betting on entertainment award ceremonies like the Oscars and Grammys is not currently legal in the Tar Heel State. If you’re a fan of Taylor Swift and would bet $100 that she’d win Best Album, you’ll have to… shake it off.
eSports ❌
At present, betting on esports and professional video game tournaments is NOT legal. However, reading over the language of electronic sports betting in HB 347, it looks promising that eSports betting may now be allowed that the bill has passed.
Responsible North Carolina sports betting
The Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission regulates North Carolina’s three retail sportsbooks. Now that HB 347 has passed, the North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL) would be in charge of sports betting regulation. The NCEL will oversee the application review process, granting licenses, performing audits, enforcing laws, and issuing fines as needed.
They’ll also be in charge of leading the way for all problem gambling initiatives. Responsible sports betting has been at the forefront of each state regulator’s mission statements and protecting the integrity of sports betting and those participating.
The NCEL will work with individual operators to encourage opt-in settings for problem gamblers or those looking to take control of their betting habits. In other states, operators allow users to set time limits on gaming sessions and set betting budgets in order to not drain their bankroll in a short period of time.
The North Carolina Problem Gambling Program has already been set up and provides resources to individuals and their family members seeking prevention and treatment options.
North Carolina gambling helpline: 1-877-718-5543
National U.S. gambling helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
Sportsbooks to avoid in North Carolina
Before online sports betting was legal in North Carolina, some bettors were tempted to hitch their wagon to an offshore sportsbook. However, these illegal sites are not regulated or licensed by the Tar Heel State or the federal government. Some offshore sportsbooks have a reputation for poor security, account fraud, risky banking methods, scams, and not paying out winnings to players.
Here are just a few examples of SBR’s offshore sportsbooks to avoid and why they made our blacklist.
BetOnSports ❌ | TopBet ❌ | 131Sport ❌ |
---|---|---|
Blacklisted since 2006· | Scam sportsbook | Blacklisted since 2007 |
Grand jury indictment | Over a dozen reported confiscated winnings | History of scams |
Over $16-million owed | Offline with $45,000 unpaid to players | |
Players got pennies on dollar in settlement |
North Carolina sports betting FAQs
Is sports betting legal in North Carolina?
Yes, sports betting is legal in North Carolina. Registration is now live as legal online sports betting apps officially launched on March 11, 2024.
When will sports betting be legal in North Carolina?
Gov. Roy Cooper signed HB 347 into law on June 14, 2023, legalizing sports betting in the state. North Carolina can grant licenses for up to 12 sports betting apps, with eight operators having officially launched on March 11, 2024.
Is betting on horse racing legal in North Carolina?
Yes, betting on horse racing is legal at North Carolina’s three retail sportsbooks. Some of the top online sportsbooks set to launch in the state may offer odds on horse racing as well.
Is online sports betting legal in North Carolina?
Yes, online sports betting officially became legal in the Tar Heel state on June 14, 2023. It took some time for the state to build the framework needed to launch online sports betting apps like DraftKings or FanDuel. Now that the heavy lifting is over, registration and wagering has begun as eight different online sports betting apps went live on March 11, 2024.
Is online North Carolina sports betting officially live?
Yes, North Carolina officially launched online sports betting on March 11, 2024.
What sportsbooks are legal in North Carolina?
North Carolina is able to open its doors to up to 12 legal online sportsbooks. The sportsbooks that are currently available include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, Fanatics, ESPN BET, bet365, and Underdog.
Do you have to live in North Carolina to bet online?
No, you don’t have to live in North Carolina to bet online. You can place wagers using online sportsbooks from anywhere within state lines. The same applies to registration, which is now live. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old. All eligible players can also visit any of the state’s three retail sportsbooks to submit bets in person.
Are sports betting apps legal in North Carolina?
Yes, sports betting apps are now legal in North Carolina, with eight available options including DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM.
What is the minimum age to bet in North Carolina?
You must be at least 21 years old to wager on sports in North Carolina.