Kentucky sports betting has finally been legalized after the passing of bill HB 511. Retail sportsbooks have already started offering their services, with mobile betting looking to follow suit on September 28th, 2023.
As with all updates to law and legislation, online sports betting in Kentucky doesn’t come without its own set of rules. Alongside covering the basics of how sports betting in KY works, we aim to offer a complete rundown of the very best sports betting apps, highlighting the range of legal markets, support options, and brilliant bonuses on offer.
Compare the best sports betting sites in Kentucky
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If you’ve ever wondered whether
gambling is legal in Kentucky, then you’ll soon find that
only
certain forms of gambling or charitable gaming are allowed. Lottery, bingo, and pari-mutuel wagering have long stood as the state’s only gambling/gaming options. However, back in March 2023, bill HB 511 was passed, legalizing KY sports betting.
Within six short months, we have now seen this bill take effect. Since Kentucky sports betting launched at ground level on September 7th, 2023, we have seen retail sportsbooks become a popular fixture across the Bluegrass State. In order to wager at a retail sportsbook, you’ll need to prove that you are over the age of 18. Depending on the sportsbook you choose to bet with, you may also be asked to provide a copy of a government-issued ID and a utility bill.
Once inside, you’ll find a range of sports betting markets that have been legalized as part of bill HB 511. All major sports, competitions, and teams have been covered. Depending on your chosen sportsbook, you will find that niche markets are available, too. Plus, we have no doubt that you’ll be pleased to hear that college sports can also be added to your bet slips.
What can we expect to see now mobile sports gambling in Kentucky has been legalized?
At 6:00 a.m. on September 28th, 2023, the very first KY betting sites will launch. Each of these Kentucky sports betting platforms promises to bring a cutting-edge mobile experience that can be accessed through dedicated applications.
Much like the retail sports betting experience, mobile bettors must be over the minimum legal age of 18 to bet in the Bluegrass State. Although all forms of online gambling in Kentucky are available to those aged 18 and over, certain sportsbooks may have their own limits in place. In turn, you may find that you need to be 21 before unlocking the perks of specific KY betting sites.
In order to verify your account, you’ll need to confirm your identity. The very best KY sports betting apps will allow you to complete this within the app, requiring a scanned copy of your government-issued ID and a utility bill. Once authorized, you’ll be free to roam the online sportsbook, taking advantage of competitive odds, bonuses, and a range of sports markets.
As with retail sports betting, mobile sports betting promises an abundance of markets. Based on our latest comparisons, we would argue that you will find a greater range when betting online. All major, minor, and collegiate fixtures are covered, ensuring that you can wager on just about everything from the outright winners of upcoming NCAAB fixtures to the first touchdown scorer from any NFL match-up.
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Things to consider: Attributes of the top Kentucky betting sites
When it comes to finding a KY sports betting app, you’ll want to consider a few key attributes before searching for the standout perks that help to separate them from the competition.
Licensing and retail partnerships
To confirm the legitimacy of a Kentucky sports betting operator, you’ll want to check for a temporary/permanent license from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. This shows that your chosen platform has been externally audited and deemed fair to offer its services to bettors within state lines. It is also a legal requirement for all mobile sports books in KY to form a partnership with a retail destination.
Bonuses and promotions
Unsurprisingly, bonuses and promotions play a huge role in the mobile betting experience. Although many new KY betting sites will focus their efforts on new customer promotions, it is important to take time to review ongoing perks and VIP programs, too. In doing so, you’ll quickly find yourself a site that has longevity. Plus, it is always a positive to see an operator look after its loyal users.
Available betting markets and odds
Finally, you’ll want to ensure that the betting markets provided by your chosen operator suit your preferences. As already detailed, Kentucky has legalized all manner of markets, including everything from major leagues and tournaments to collegiate games. As odds provide the foundation for your KY betting experience, we would suggest making use of our comparisons to locate the most competitive odds around.
Get prepared: A closer look at some of the best KY online betting sites set to open their virtual doors
With sports betting now legalized in Kentucky and the official mobile launch imminent, it’s time that we offered a few mini-reviews of our favorite operators that have successfully secured licenses and retail partnerships thus far.
DraftKings: Enjoy the perks of an established US operator in KY
DraftKings: Pros & Cons
$200 in bonus bets for new users
24/7 customer support
In-play betting features
Complex mobile sportsbook
DraftKings knows a thing or two about providing a mobile sports betting experience. Having successfully obtained a KHRC license and partnership with Cumberland Run, the online operator is now primed and ready to offer all new users the chance to pick up a pre-launch welcome offer of $200 in bonus bets.
Beyond the welcome bonus, we would assume that DraftKings will bring the complete mobile offering to Kentucky. This includes a huge selection of betting markets, in-play features, 24/7 customer support, credible payment methods, and much more.
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BetMGM: Expect big things when the virtual doors open
BetMGM: Pros & Cons
All major sports covered
Competitive odds
Responsive support team
Pre-launch bonus TBC
BetMGM is keeping its cards
relatively
close to its chest. Currently, there is no mention of a pre-launch promotion; however, we can confirm that a legitimate license and partnership with Sandy’s Racing and Gaming have been secured.
We will aim to keep you updated with any further information. However, in the interim, we would assume that the same immersive mobile betting experience will transfer across to the Bluegrass State. As a BetMGM member, you’ll be able to access a range of ongoing perks and promotions, responsive support, competitive odds, and the chance to deposit and withdraw freely.
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FanDuel: Industry leader unveils two exciting pre-launch promotions
FanDuel: Pros & Cons
Two-part pre-launch bonus
Top odds for all markets
User-friendly application
Lengthy withdrawal times
FanDuel is all but set to open its virtual doors. After securing a legitimate license and partnership with Churchill Downs, FanDuel soon released the news of two pre-launch promotions. As a new user, you’ll be able to unlock $100 in bonus bets and receive $100 off NFL Sunday tickets.
Provided FanDuel mimics the mobile experience found elsewhere around the US, mobile bettors in Kentucky can anticipate a smooth platform with simple bet-building, a supportive team available around the clock, and some of the most competitive odds around.
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Fanatics: Looking to set the tone
Fanatics: Pros & Cons
Live streaming supported
Credible payment methods
Impressive market coverage
Withdrawals can take ten days
Fanatics is a name that isn’t as synonymous with the sports betting scene as it is with sports merchandising. However, that doesn’t mean this up-and-coming online sportsbook isn’t going to provide an immersive sports betting experience when it launches on September 28th, 2023.
We are yet to hear of a pre-launch promotion, but can confirm that the mobile app provides a swift and stylish way to manage your account. Once registered, you’ll be able to deposit using credible methods, stream through a range of markets, and place bets with ease.
Caesars: Final touches awaiting confirmation before launching in the Bluegrass State
Caesars: Pros & Cons
Impressive rewards program
Well-designed mobile app
Selection of betting markets
Pre-launch bonus TBC
Caesars has cemented its position in the Kentucky sports betting market by securing a license with the KHRC and a partnership with Red Mile Racing. As things stand, however, that is all the information we have regarding the KY offering.
From past experience, we know that Caesars is responsible for a fantastic VIP program that promises a wealth of rewards and ongoing perks. Plus, the mobile applications are easy to use, extensive markets are covered, and odds are competitive across the board.
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Bet 365: Powerhouse looks ready for Kentucky takeover
Bet365: Pros & Cons
Pre-launch offer aimed at NFL fans
Fantastic mobile app design
Credible payment methods
Ten-day withdrawals
The renowned Bet365 has obtained a legitimate license and partnered with Sandy’s Gaming and Racing, confirming its eligible status in KY. For those that join before September 28th, a pre-launch promotion promising $10 per touchdown scored on a nominated game will be provided.
However, for those who join after September 28th, a wide selection of perks awaits. Although pure speculation, Bet365 often offers users the chance to collect ongoing promotions, deposit using credible payment methods, receive support around the clock, and the option to use in-play betting features.
Operator
Launch Date
Retail Partners
New customer offer
DraftKings
28th September 2023
Cumberland Run
$200 in bonus bets
BetMGM
28th September 2023
Sandy’s Gaming and Racing
TBC
FanDuel
28th September 2023
Churchill Downs
$100 in bonus bets + $100 off NFL tickets
Fanatics
28th September 2023
Oak Grove Racetrack
TBC
Caesars
28th September 2023
Red Mile Racing
TBC
Bet365
28th September 2023
Sandy’s Gaming and Racing
$10 per touchdown on a single NFL game
Registration: How to join an online sports betting site in Kentucky
Now you’ve found out more about the very best KY sports betting sites that look set to launch on September 28th, 2023, it’s time to check out this step-by-step guide on how to download and register at your chosen online sportsbook.
Make use of our online comparisons
We’ve been busy curating reviews on licensed operators that look set to launch in Kentucky. You’ll find all you need to know about these top mobile sportsbooks, including security features, bonuses offered, and markets available.
Head to the app store
Once you’ve found a top betting destination in KY, you’ll want to make your way to the app store and begin your free download.
Register your account
Now it is time to provide a few basic details, including your name, email, date of birth, and telephone number. Plus, you’ll also need to create a username and password.
Verify your identity
Once registered, you’ll need to authorize your account. This can be completed by simply providing copies of a government-issued ID and utility bill.
Unlock your bonus and place your bets
Finally, you’ll want to enter any promotional codes and make your first online deposit. You can then head to the sportsbook and begin placing your bets in Kentucky.
Discover more about the best KY sports betting sites today
The Kentucky sports betting scene is beginning to evolve, and we cannot wait to see what happens over the next few weeks. Retail sportsbooks are already thriving, and the introduction of mobile betting on September 28th will only add to the momentum.
As you can see from our comparisons, there is a great wealth of bonuses and markets ready to launch. We suggest checking out our comprehensive reviews to help find a destination that is in line with your preferences.
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There are various attributes to consider before choosing a KY sports betting app. Fortunately, we’ve been busy curating reviews on the very best, ensuring you have the best possible chance of finding a suitable place to bet online.
❓Is KY sports gambling legal?
As of March, 2023, bill HB 511 was passed, legalizing sports betting across the Bluegrass State. Since then, we have seen retail sportsbooks open, with the launch of mobile betting around the corner.
💯
Is mobile sports betting in Kentucky allowed?
Mobile betting has been legalized but will not launch until 28th September, 2023. On this date, a selection of top sports betting apps will open, allowing KY sports fans the chance to bet on their favorite teams on the go.
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