North Carolina Sports Betting: The Top Sportsbooks in the State

North Carolina Sports Betting Quick Facts
Sports Betting StatusLegal
Start DateJuly 26, 2019
Legal Betting Age21
Online/In App BettingYes
Corresponding BillSB 154
RestrictionsProp bets on college games.
North Carolina Sports Betting on HR

Table of Contents

It’s here!  Are you ready for sports betting action in North Carolina!?

Some of the best sportsbooks in the industry are opening their digital doors in NC on March 11th, 2024 and bringing a long a slew of excellent welcome offers.

DraftKings Sportsbook

Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly

New Customers Only 4.9 Stars out of 5.0
NC Only, 21+. Please Gamble Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
BetMGM Sportsbook

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets

Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win | Promo Code: EWBET1 4.9 Stars out of 5.0
See BetMGM.com for Terms. 21+ only. NC only. New Customer Offer (If applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Rewards are non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
FanDuel Sportsbook

Bet $5, Get $150

In Bonus Bets — Guaranteed! 4.8 Stars out of 5.0
21+ and present in NC. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
Bet365 Sportsbook

Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets

Or Get a First Bet Safety Net up to $1000 in Bonus Bets | Promo Code: 365BV1 4.5 Stars out of 5.0
NC Only, 21+. Please Gamble Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.
Underdog Sportsbook

First Bet Mulligan

Miss Your First Bet, Take Another Swing On Us up to $1,000 as Bonus Funds | Use Code EWB 4.8 Stars out of 5.0
Must be 21+ to gamble and present in North Carolina. Gambling Problem? Call 1-877-718-5543, visit morethanagame.nc.gov or call 1-800-GAMBLER. Terms, conditions and restrictions apply. See Underdog Sportsbook app for full offer terms.

North Carolina Online Sports Betting Legislation

Online sports betting is now officially legal in North Carolina as a significant step forward for the sports betting industry. After passing through the North Carolina senate, Governor Roy Cooper signed the bill into law in June 2023, marking a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards expanded gambling options. However, it’s important to note that while the legislation has been passed, online sportsbooks will become operational on 11 March 2024. 

This is a major development for North Carolina’s gaming industry and one that is eagerly awaited by sports fans across the state.

The sportsbooks that will go live in the Old North State include DraftKings, Bet365, BetMGM, and FanDuel. They’ve released some serious bonuses as part of the pre-launch offers.

Brick-and-Mortar Sportsbooks in North Carolina

Clearly only having one sportsbook option, and even worse zero online sportsbook options is far from ideal for North Carolina sports bettors. That being said, an additional bill SB 574 established a gaming commission that should oversee near-term growth within the state.

How long until North Carolina residents and visitors can expect to see online sports betting? It’s not far at all.

In fact, online sports betting will go live March 4th, but in the mean time there are a few retail locations you can go to if you want to lay down some bets.

In the meantime, the sportsbook in Cherokee, NC makes a great weekend trip into the mountains.

harrah's cherokee sportsbook nc

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino

777 Casino Dr
Cherokee, NC 28719

harrah's casino and sportsbook north carolina

Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River

777 Casino Pkwy, Murphy, NC 28906

HRNCStatePage

The Best North Carolina Online Sportsbooks

Just because the online sportsbooks haven’t launched in NC just yet, that doesn’t mean we don’t know which ones will open their doors to North Carolina sports bettors.

Given that the sports betting revenue is expected to be huge in NC, it’s no wonder some of the big names will be joining the fray.

DraftKings Online Sportsbook

  • Current DraftKings NC Launch Bonus: Get $300 in Bonus Bets 

DraftKings The Game Inside the Game

The excitement is growing across the Tar Heel State as DraftKings gears up to launch in North Carolina on March 11th. Sports enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the arrival of one of the nation’s top online sportsbooks.

With its reputation for innovation, DraftKings is set to revolutionize sports betting in North Carolina with its user-friendly app, offering unparalleled access to the world of sports.

Known for its generous bonuses, DraftKings is expected to roll out enticing promotions for North Carolina users following the success of its launches in other states. From welcoming new users with attractive bonuses to keeping existing players engaged with ongoing promotions, DraftKings promises an unparalleled betting experience.

Although the launch date has been confirmed, one thing remains certain: when DraftKings finally arrives in North Carolina, it will completely change the game for sports betting enthusiasts across the state.

FanDuel Online Sportsbook

  • Current FanDuel NC Launch Bonus: Get $300 in Bonus Bets 

HR FanDuel Faceoff App

North Carolina’s sports betting community is abuzz with anticipation as FanDuel, a powerhouse in the online sports betting industry, prepares to make its grand entrance on March 11th.

With its reputation for offering an extensive array of betting options and an intuitive platform, FanDuel’s imminent arrival is poised to revolutionize the local sports betting landscape.

From basketball and baseball to hockey and soccer, FanDuel boasts a diverse selection of sports to cater to every fan’s preferences. Its comprehensive coverage ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts across North Carolina.

Beyond its expansive sports offerings, FanDuel is celebrated for its generous bonuses and promotions, mirroring the excitement surrounding DraftKings.

New users can get a warm reception with enticing sign-up bonuses, while regular bettors can enjoy ongoing promotions to enhance their betting experience.

BetMGM Online Sportsbook

  • Current BetMGM NC Launch Bonus: Get $200 in Bonus Bets on Full Launch

BetMGM Its Time to Change the Game

North Carolina’s sports betting scene is poised for a seismic shift as BetMGM, a prominent player in the online sports betting arena, prepares to launch in the state with the rest of the major sportsbooks.

With its stellar reputation and innovative platform, BetMGM’s impending arrival has captured the attention of sports enthusiasts statewide.

Renowned for its extensive range of betting options, BetMGM offers an unparalleled selection of sports, catering to the diverse interests of North Carolina’s passionate sports fans. Whether it’s basketball, baseball, hockey, or soccer, BetMGM ensures that there’s something for everyone to wager on, promising an exhilarating betting experience.

On top of its comprehensive sports offerings, BetMGM is synonymous with generous bonuses and promotions, akin to the excitement surrounding DraftKings and FanDuel.

New users can snag up attractive sign-up bonuses, while regular bettors can enjoy a plethora of ongoing promotions designed to enhance their betting journey.

Other Sportsbooks to Enter the NC Sports Betting Scene

There are plenty more contenders than just FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM.  Here’s a rundown of some of the contenders for the sports betting industry in NC—

  • Bet365. As one of the world’s leading online gambling companies, Bet365’s arrival in North Carolina was eagerly anticipated. Their extensive sports coverage and innovative features will significantly enhance the local betting landscape and make horse racing one of the biggest markets.

  • ESPN BET. Sure, they’re new to the sports betting industry altogether, but that doesn’t mean they’re not jumping in on the NC rush. They have lots of betting options and plenty of bonus bets for you to enjoy.

  • Fanatics Sportsbook. Formerly PointsBet, Fanatics is attempting to go above and beyond where PointsBet was in the US and they’re getting into the NC sports betting market as well.

While we await March 11th for the official launch, we’re excited to see where the industry goes in North Carolina.

North Carolina Sports Betting FAQs

North Carolina is the most recent state to legalize sports betting, but it is far from a black-and-white situation. There is a complicated set of steps that have to happen before online sports betting becomes available to NC residents. The following FAQs should help make sense of the current legislation.

Is sports betting legal in North Carolina?

Yes, legal sports betting was signed into law in North Carolina in July of 2019. The bill made NC the 17th state to legalize sports betting. As of March 2024, NC residents and visitors can also bet at online sportsbooks.

Where can I bet on sports in North Carolina?

North Carolina residents can bet on sports in one of the two casinos in the state or at one of the eight online sportsbooks. Both retail casinos are Caesars Harrah’s. While we love retail sports betting, North Carolina bettors will be able to bet online in March 2024.

When will North Carolina legalize online sports betting?

With the new sports betting bill that passed in the Tar Heel State, the eight online sportsbooks can begin taking bets March 11 2024.

What sports can I bet on in NC?

There are currently no limits on which sports are available to bet on in North Carolina. This obviously not only includes all professional sports but also all college sports as well. So if you want to place a live bet on the Charlotte Hornets while sitting in the Spectrum Center, you can do that once the online betting kicks off.

What bet types are available in NC?

You can place any bet that would typically be available at any sportsbook online or in Las Vegas. This includes prop bets, straight bets, money lines, totals, teasers, parlays, and more. 

I don’t live close enough to the sportsbooks, what are my options?

This is the obvious issue in NC right now. Both Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River are located on the far West side of the state, making it an unrealistic trip for residents that live near the coast. So, what options do you have? Online options! On March 11th when legal sports gambling kicks off and you should be able to bet from the comforts of your home.

Who oversees online sports betting in North Carolina?

Online sports betting in North Carolina is overseen by the North Carolina Lottery Commission. This regulatory body is responsible for licensing and they regulate sports betting throughout the state. The commission already manages the operation of lotteries in the state, and with the NC sports betting law, their oversight has extended to North Carolina online sports betting as well.

Must be age 21 or older to play. Please gamble responsibly and within your limits. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, assistance is available by calling or texting 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. Information, resources, counseling and referral services can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Chris Lollis


Chief Content Officer

Chris Lollis is the founder and senior editor at Hello Rookie. He has over a decade of experience in the sports betting industry and has covered everything from the PASPA repeal to every state launch since. Chris currently contributes guides, reviews, and betting tips at Hello Rookie.