Top Sportsbooks for Betting in Delaware, USA

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Delaware?

Online sports betting is fully legal in Delaware as of 2025. The state has specific limitations and regulatory frameworks that set it apart from other states. Delaware's unique history with federal gambling laws and recent developments in its betting ecosystem paints a complete legal picture.

Delaware's exemption from PASPA

Delaware held a special position in American sports betting history. It was one of four states that got exemptions from the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992. This federal law banned sports betting nationwide but made exceptions for states that already offered some form of sports wagering.

The state earned its exemption through its NFL parlay-style betting program "Scoreboard" which ran in 1976. The program lasted just one season but it helped Delaware secure a partial exemption from PASPA's restrictions. The exemption only covered NFL parlay wagers where bettors had to pick at least three games correctly.

Delaware tried to expand its sports betting options in 2009. Governor Jack Markell signed a bill that allowed single-game wagering. Major sports leagues challenged this move quickly. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit ruled against Delaware. They decided that any expansion beyond parlay-style wagering would break PASPA rules. The court stated:

"Thus, any effort by Delaware to allow wagering on athletic contests involving sports beyond the NFL would violate PASPA. It is also undisputed that no single-game betting was 'conducted' by Delaware in 1976, or at any other time during the time period that triggers the PASPA exception."

The state kept the 2009 law on books despite this setback. This decision proved vital after PASPA's end.

Current legal status in 2025

Delaware betting sites changed forever on May 14, 2018. The U.S. Supreme Court struck down PASPA as unconstitutional. Delaware acted fast and used its existing legal framework. The state became the first after Nevada to start full-scale sports betting. Legal wagers began on June 5, 2018 – just three weeks after the Supreme Court's decision.

Sports betting started at three casino and racetrack locations:

• Delaware Park
• Dover Downs
• Harrington Raceway

The Delaware state lottery ran about 100 retail locations. These spots could only offer college and professional football parlay cards.

A big change came in December 2023 when the state welcomed online sports betting. The Delaware Lottery picked Rush Street Interactive (RSI), BetRivers' parent company, as its exclusive mobile betting partner. BetRivers became the only online sportsbook in the state through a five-year deal that could stretch to ten years. Delaware Lottery director Helene Keeley shared some impressive numbers. Bettors wagered about $2 million on sports and $16.6 million on iGaming in the first week alone.

Delaware's betting scene might grow soon. House Bill 365 appeared in April 2024 to add more mobile sports betting options beyond the current single-operator setup. This bill followed advice from the bipartisan Internet Sports Lottery Legislative Working Group. The proposed rules include:

• A $500,000 fee for an initial 5-year license
• Licensed operators must give back 18% of their monthly adjusted gross sports lottery receipts
• Horse racing purses get an extra 1.5% of monthly adjusted gross receipts

These changes aim to fund gambling addiction programs better and match neighboring states' comprehensive mobile betting options.

Who regulates Delaware betting sites?

The Delaware Lottery leads all regulation of betting sites and gambling activities in the state. Their complete oversight duties include:

• Watching over the sports betting industry
• Giving out licenses to gambling providers
• Making sure everyone follows state rules
• Regular checks to keep operations honest

The Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) helps the Lottery with regulation. Together they create strong rules for:

• Looking at license applications
• Making gambling rules stick
• Handling gambling-related legal issues

Delaware has some strict rules for sports betting. Bettors can't:

1. Bet on Delaware-based college teams
2. Wager on political events
3. Place bets on esports

Player protection is a top priority. Delaware betting sites must have responsible gambling measures in place. These include self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, and help for problem gambling. Online betting expansion brought more money to problem gambling services. New revenue helps fund "treatment, education and assistance of compulsive gamblers and problem gambling".

Delaware betting sites that accept PayPal and other payment methods must keep transactions secure under the Lottery's watch. Customer support quality varies between operators but must meet regulatory standards.

Top 5 Best Delaware Betting Sites in 2025

1. SportsBetting.ag – The only licensed online sportsbook

SportsBetting.ag has become a top choice for Delaware bettors. This 14-year-old platform provides a detailed suite of wagering options safely and legally. The platform stands out from competitors with these features:

• No Hometown Bias: SportsBetting.ag includes odds on Delaware college teams and events, which fills a gap in the state-regulated market
• Full Mobile Compatibility: Users get smooth mobile betting without needing a dedicated app
• Excellent Customer Service: Their top-tier customer support helps bettors solve issues quickly

SportsBetting.ag's reliable banking methods and strong server connection give users uninterrupted live betting experiences. Their proven track record shows stability in an unpredictable market. Users enjoy an easy-to-use interface with valuable betting odds across many sports categories.

Delaware bettors looking for detailed coverage will find SportsBetting.ag's "Bet On Anything" approach useful. Their parent company started in 2011 and operates from Panama with proper licensing.

2. Bovada – Best for in-person betting

Bovada creates an interesting situation for Delaware bettors. The platform doesn't allow Delaware residents to create accounts. This limit comes from Bovada's choice to avoid states with regulated online gambling.

Bovada told customers in 2017 they would stop serving players in Delaware. Nevada, New Jersey, New York, and Maryland were also affected. The company made this choice not because of legal issues but because of their business strategy. Their document explains:

"Bovada has decided that they don't want to follow the regulations of any one state, as this might prevent them from operating in states with different regulations"

Delaware residents who can access Bovada in eligible states will find exceptional in-person betting experiences. Delaware's retail sportsbooks—Delaware Park, Bally's Dover, and Harrington Raceway—give bettors hands-on thrills. These locations offer full-service amenities, comfortable seating, and large-screen TVs to watch games.

3. XBet.ag – The best for horse racing fans

XBet.ag has become extremely popular among Delaware betting sites fans, particularly horse racing fans. Their racebook is designed with horse racing enthusiasts in mind, and their site boasts:

"At Xbet.ag we've got your horse wagering action covered! We give players multiple opportunities to cash out and maximize their chance to win by betting on a wide range selection of specialty horse racing props for world class events".

The website includes the top-level events like:

• Kentucky Derby
• Preakness Stakes
• Belmont Stakes
• Breeders Cup annual

Other than its quality of horse racing, XBet provides Delaware bettors with multiple solid advantages:

• Worry-Free Legal Betting: The website is a haven for Delaware bettors
• Exclusive Bonus Offers: Extra offers bring added value to betting
• Premier User Experience: The user-friendly site has driven XBet quickly in the extremely competitive market
• Full Mobile + Live Betting: Complete on-the-move betting options with real-time availability

As a newcomer, XBet has stood out through quality lines on wagers and frequently updated odds. Its distinctive bonus structure allows players to maximize deposits, while the site maintains odds on Delaware college squads—plugging a huge gap in state-regulated options.

4. BetUS – Full sportsbook experience

BetUS provides what they call "the premier online sports betting destination". Being in operation since 1994, BetUS has decades of experience in bringing to the market of Delaware sports betting sites.

The fame of the website is founded upon its welcome bonus policy. Granting a generous bonus of 125% on deposits. Besides the welcoming bonus package, BetUS provides:

• Competitive Odds: Best-in-industry options for all major sports
• Unmatched Promotions: Exclusive bonuses and loyalty rewards
• 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock customer support
• Swift Payouts: Fast and secure withdrawal processing

For Delaware bettors seeking diversity in markets, BetUS excels with odds on several hundred betting choices. NFL, NBA, MLB, College Football, College Basketball, and numerous others are included. Their website also features both pre-game and in-play betting options so bets can be made as games are being played in real time.

One of the more impressive aspects of BetUS is their content instructing users. The website offers BetUS TV with analysis, insight, and wagering recommendations designed to provide better-informed wagers from users. Their focus on teaching bettors demonstrates their concern with long-term relationships with customers over just short-term activation.

5. BetOnline.ag – DFS platform with gambling options

BetOnline rounds out our list of best Delaware sports betting sites with its well-rounded product that dissolves the boundaries of traditional sports betting and daily fantasy sports products. BetOnline has been a sports betting site serving Delaware bettors since 1991, with over three decades of experience.

The website is distinguished by the following features:

• User-Friendly Interface: BetOnline provides a hassle-free betting experience
• Genuine Betting Odds: Reliable competitive lines in multiple sports
• Delaware College Team Odds: Unlike state-regulated portals, BetOnline offers odds for local college teams
• 10+ Year Operating History: Established reputation and stability

BetOnline payment versatility is amongst the best amongst Delaware betting platforms with PayPal deposits. The portal supports numerous bank options like Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Person2Person, and over 15 substitute cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, and XRP.

For promotion, BetOnline offers free bets of $250 to new members on signup. More attractive for regular bettors is their VIP program, where members are rewarded with added benefits depending on the volume of their bets.

BetOnline's BetTV feature provides premium content whereby users are able to watch experts discuss up-and-coming matches and games and get tips that will shape betting decisions. This combination of learning content and betting options makes it a fuller package than the competition.

How to Start Betting on Delaware Sites

Step 1: Choose a legal sportsbook

The right Delaware betting site will lay the foundation for your betting experience. BetRivers currently operates as the only state-regulated online sportsbook in Delaware. Many bettors look at offshore platforms that serve Delaware residents.

These critical factors matter when picking a sportsbook:

• Licensing status: Make sure the platform legally operates within Delaware's regulations
• Banking options: Check if the site supports your preferred payment methods
• User interface: Look for mobile compatibility to bet on the go
• Bonus structures: Look at welcome offers and ongoing promotions
• Customer service quality: Check response times before you commit

Delaware betting sites let you explore their platform before signing up. You can assess their interface and available betting markets. This research will help you avoid problems later.

Step 2: Register and verify your identity

After picking your sportsbook, account creation follows a standard process across Delaware betting sites:

1. Look for the "Join" or "Register" button on the homepage
2. Enter your personal information including:
   • Full legal name
   • Email address
   • Phone number
   • Home address
   • Date of birth
   • Last four digits of SSN

Each sportsbook's identity verification requirements might vary slightly. Delaware regulations require strict protocols to stop fraud and underage gambling. The verification process takes 5-10 minutes using any device with a camera and internet connection.

You can use these photo ID documents:

• Driver's license
• Passport
• State-issued ID card
• University/school ID card
• Residence permit

Bank-grade security infrastructure and federally compliant information protection practices safeguard your information without affecting your credit score. Account approval usually takes 24 hours or less, giving you full access to your account.

Step 3: Deposit funds (PayPal, cards, more)

Delaware betting sites give you several banking options with different processing times and limits. Here are the most popular methods:

PayPal: Delaware betting sites with PayPal stand out as the best payment option. This e-wallet works fast and easy, usually processing transactions in 30 minutes or less. PayPal transactions come with no fees, unlike other e-wallets.

Credit/Debit Cards: Cards seem convenient but have some drawbacks. Many banks automatically reject gambling-related deposits. Some banks might treat these transactions as cash advances and charge extra fees.

ACH/E-Check: This method (often called VIP Preferred) accepts most transactions with good limits. Your account shows funds right away, though your bank might take 2-3 days to process the deduction.

Play+ Prepaid Card: Nearly every Delaware betting site offers this highly reliable option. You can get digital and physical cards, and start using the digital version immediately.

PayNearMe: Cash users love this service that lets them deposit at 7-Eleven, CVS, and Family Dollar stores. Just show your PayNearMe barcode to the clerk, pay, and enter the code into your betting account.

Venmo: Delaware bettors increasingly choose Venmo for its easy-to-use platform and top-notch security.

Step 4: Claim your welcome bonus

Delaware betting sites attract new customers with tempting welcome bonuses. These usually come in two main types:

1. First Bet Insurance: You get your money back if your first bet loses, up to certain limits. The refund might be site credit or cash, depending on the sportsbook.

2. Deposit Match: The sportsbook matches your first deposit dollar-for-dollar, with certain limits and playthrough requirements. You'll need to bet your initial deposit several times to unlock bonus funds.

Read the terms and conditions carefully before claiming bonuses. Pay attention to:

• Minimum odds requirements
• Playthrough/rollover obligations
• Expiration dates
• Market restrictions

BetRivers gives Delaware bettors competitive welcome bonuses and special promotions during major sporting events.

Step 5: Place your first bet

Your funded account and secured bonus mean you're ready to place your first bet. Delaware betting sites feature user-friendly platforms that work well for newcomers.

Here's how to place a bet:

1. Pick your sport from available markets
2. Select the event you want to bet on
3. Pick your bet type (moneyline, spread, total, etc.)
4. Enter your stake amount in the betting slip
5. Double-check everything before confirming

Popular bet types include:

• Moneyline: Pick the winning team
• Point spread: Bet on victory margin
• Totals (Over/Under): Bet on combined score
• Parlays: Combine multiple bets for bigger potential wins
• Player/team props: Bet on specific performance stats

Live betting lets you place wagers during events once you know the basics.

Delaware Park's retail sportsbook works differently for first-time bettors. Place in-person wagers this way:

1. Name the track
2. Give the race number
3. Tell them your bet amount
4. Specify the wager type
5. Give the program number(s) for your pick

You'll find BetJet machines for self-service betting at Delaware's three retail sportsbooks.

Key Features to Compare Delaware Betting Sites

Betting sites in Delaware need careful evaluation based on features that affect your betting experience. I bet frequently and have analyzed what makes platforms stand out from average ones. This comparison will show you which elements match your betting style.

User interface and mobile experience

A betting platform's user interface quality determines if you'll come back to bet again. BetRivers gives you a responsive mobile experience that adapts to your tablet or smartphone. XBet stands out among offshore platforms with its sleek, modern design. The green-and-dark color scheme feels fresh compared to competitors using outdated 2010s-era interfaces.

Speed makes all the difference in mobile betting. XBet's app loads quickly on cellular data and Wi-Fi connections. Quick loading becomes vital during live betting where delayed odds mean missed opportunities. Industry reviews note that "live betting is where the XBet app shines the most" with odds that match game developments.

Leading Delaware betting sites have adopted mobile-first design approaches. Bovada has "made it a point to overinvest in the app compared to traditional website" since mobile users now exceed desktop bettors. This focus acknowledges mobile design complexity and creates systems where strong mobile interfaces naturally work well on desktop too.

Available sports and bet types

Market coverage varies across Delaware betting sites. State-licensed BetRivers offers detailed options including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, golf, UFC, NASCAR, boxing, tennis, and soccer. Their international coverage includes Spain, Germany, Brazil, Hungary, and Iceland.

Some platforms excel in specific betting areas:

• Horse racing: XBet covers prestigious events like Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes, and the Breeders Cup
• Golf: BetRivers features futures markets for major tournaments including PGA Championship, The Masters, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf
• MMA/UFC: BetRivers provides futures odds on championship outcomes across all weight classes

Market depth separates top platforms from simple ones. BetOnline features a "sportsbook menu that is deep—really deep". Their odds update quickly after games end, and they cover niche sports like rugby and snooker extensively. Bettors can find specific wagers easily.

Bonuses and promotions

Delaware betting sites offer seven types of bonuses:

1. Free Bets: Bonus site credit after your first bet
2. Risk-Free Bets: You get stake refunds as free bets when you lose
3. Deposit Bonuses: Matching funds for your deposits
4. No Deposit Bonuses: Free funds just for signing up
5. Reload Offers: Regular bonuses for existing customers
6. Profit Boosts: Higher payouts when you win
7. Odds Boosts: Better odds on specific markets

Bonus values differ among sites. BetUS leads with welcome bonuses up to USD 3,125, triple what others typically offer. Their referral program can add USD 600 more. BetRivers gives you a "Second Chance" bonus up to USD 250.

Customer support quality

Support options set Delaware betting sites apart. Top platforms let you reach them through live chat, email, and sometimes phone. Response times range from instant live chat replies to hours for email support.

BetRivers gets mixed reviews. Users praise their "numerous promotional offers" and "competitive odds" but mention "some users having trouble with payouts". Their support system faces challenges with "outdated website and app design" and occasional "betting app connectivity issues".

Delaware Park's retail service shines through Player Rewards Card benefits including:

• Special promotion access
• Platform change updates
• Early notices about major games and fights

Withdrawal speed and limits

Payment method determines how fast you get your money from Delaware betting sites. Crypto moves almost instantly while bank options take 48+ hours. Bank transfers allow higher withdrawal amounts to balance their slower speed.

PayPal and other e-wallets process within 30 minutes without fees. This makes Delaware betting sites with PayPal highly popular.

BetRivers supports various banking methods:

• Credit/debit cards
• ACH/e-check
• PayPal
• Online bank transfer
• Play+ prepaid card

Delaware Park, Bally's Dover, and Harrington's retail sportsbooks take cash, cards, and casino chips for in-person transactions. Your chosen platform's payment options should match how you prefer to manage your money.

What You Can and Can’t Bet on in Delaware

Delaware sports betting has clear limits on what you can legally bet on. You should know these restrictions before placing bets on Delaware betting sites. The state has laid out specific rules about what markets are allowed and what aren't - rules that differ from nearby states.

No betting on in-state college teams

Delaware law strictly forbids betting on any college teams based in the state. This rule applies to every Delaware betting site, whether they're state-regulated or offshore operations. The ban covers:

• University of Delaware Blue Hens
• Delaware State University Hornets
• Wilmington University Wildcats
• Goldey-Beacom College Lightning

This rule protects student-athletes from outside influence and keeps college sports honest. Bettors can still place wagers on college teams from other states and join in on March Madness brackets and College Football Playoff games.

No political or esports betting

Beyond local college teams, Delaware betting sites can't legally offer markets on:

• Political events (elections, primaries, debates)
• Esports competitions (League of Legends, Dota 2, CS:GO)
• Entertainment outcomes (Academy Awards, Emmy Awards)

Political betting brings in big money in other countries, but Delaware keeps this ban across all platforms. The state's betting site bonuses don't include these categories either.

NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more allowed

Delaware betting sites offer many options for major professional sports leagues. Popular betting choices include:

• Major professional leagues: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, PGA Tour
• International competitions: English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, Olympics
• Individual sports: Tennis, boxing, UFC/MMA, NASCAR, Formula 1

Delaware's approved betting list gives you thousands of daily betting opportunities. Most Delaware betting sites that take PayPal have detailed betting markets with competitive odds in these allowed categories. If you have questions about specific markets, reach out to your chosen platform's support team.

Delaware's betting rules match what you'll find in most regulated U.S. markets. They strike a balance between protecting consumers and providing entertainment. The difference between banned and allowed markets creates rules that let people enjoy betting responsibly.

Final Thoughts on Delaware Betting Sites

Delaware's sports betting market stands unique in America. The state led the way after PASPA, yet maintains a simple setup with BetRivers as its only state-approved online platform since January 2025. Notwithstanding that, bettors can access offshore options like SportsBetting.ag, XBet.ag, and BetUS that fill much of the market gaps, especially when you have Delaware college team odds.

Betting here works quickly and simply. You can complete registration, verification, deposits, and place your bets in under 30 minutes. Payment options are a vital feature that sets platforms apart, with choices ranging from credit cards to e-wallets and cryptocurrencies. Delaware's betting sites with PayPal prove faster than traditional banking - 30 minutes versus 48+ hours for processing.

Delaware's rules set clear limits on what you can bet. The state's betting system handles about $216 million yearly from major professional leagues, but some restrictions stay firm. The state doesn't allow bets on local college teams, political events, or esports matches.

Success in Delaware betting depends on knowing the rules and each platform's features. Bettors should stick to trusted platforms that offer solid security, quick support, and good odds - whether at Delaware Park, Bally's Dover, Harrington Raceway or online. The market keeps changing, but these basics will without doubt stay vital to navigate Delaware's unique betting world.