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Is Sports Betting Legal in Rhode Island?
For all Rhode Island residents, we have created a comprehensive guide to help you understand fully the relevant Rhode Island gambling laws and regulations. As of 2018, the state passed into law that Rhode Island sports betting would be regulated. This was a huge step for the state and has since given rise to a bubbling state betting industry.
For those wondering “Is sports betting legal in Rhode Island and how do I bet?” Well, those residing in the Ocean State, can access online gambling via two active casinos and one sports betting app, as well as a wealth of offshore bookies offering some of the most competitive odds online.
We would strongly advise any Rhode Island bettors to take a look through our complete list of sports betting providers. We’ll dig deep into the various providers and offer some clarity as to the best ways to take advantage of the various bonuses, odds markets, and competitions at these great oddsmakers.
Anyone who’s landed here and lives in another state, we should point you in the direction of our page explaining all the details of US betting laws, state-by-state. Also, be sure to check out our recommendations for the best RI sports betting apps.
Top 5 Rhode Island Sportsbooks
Now that sports betting in the state are regulated, we’re seeing an increasing number of bettors swarming to the state to enjoy the various sports betting facilities. If you’re wondering how old you need to be to gamble in Rhode Island state, it’s the same as it is across the US, which is 21 years old.
Our team of in-house betting experts have reviewed all the available sports betting platforms in Rhode Island state. In order to ensure this process is seamless for our readers, we’ve put together a list of the top five bookmakers for gambling in Rhode Island.
BetOnline
BetOnline is often touted as one of the best bookmakers amongst the community, largely due to the fact it offers an excellent sports betting welcome bonus. The bonus breaks down as a 100% match of up to a staggering $1000!
MyBookie
Another big player in the online gambling scene is MyBookie, which features a unique mobile sports betting platform. The platform has helped to launch the company name and reach an international audience.
Bovada
As one of the biggest names in the industry, Bovada has gone from strength to strength in recent years and now stands as one of the global powerhouses in the domain of online sports betting.
Xbet
One of the more experienced bookmakers. Known for its consistency in providing first-rate odds and ensuring customers have a complete sports betting experience on site.
Sports betting is fully legal in Rhode Island, with mobile wagering available since 2019. While the market is more limited than in larger states, it still offers a convenient and legal way for residents to bet online.
All online sports betting in Rhode Island is regulated by the Rhode Island Lottery, ensuring secure, fair, and responsible gambling for users across the state.
| Sportsbook | Available in Rhode Island |
| FanDuel | ❌ |
| DraftKings | ❌ |
| Caesars | ❌ |
| BetRivers | ❌ |
| BetMGM | ❌ |
| Fanatics | ❌ |
| Unibet | ❌ |
Rhode Island Quick Facts
Here’s a snapshot of everything you need to know about sports betting in Rhode Island. From when it became legal to who can place bets and what’s allowed, this quick guide breaks down the essentials of Rhode Island’s sports betting scene at a glance.
| State | Rhode Island |
| Sports Betting Law Passed | Yes ✔️ |
| Launch Date | November 26th 2018 (Retail) & September 4th 2019 (Online) |
| Minimum Gambling Age | 18 ✔️ |
| Online Sports Betting | Yes ✔️ |
| Mobile Sports Betting | Yes ✔️ |
| Retail Sportsbooks | Yes ✔️ |
| Tribal Casinos | No ❌ |
| Daily Fantasy Sports | Yes ✔️ |
| Online Casinos | Yes ✔️ |
| Horse Racing | Yes ✔️ |
| Dog Racing | No ❌ |
| Esports Betting | No ❌ |
Why Many Rhode Island Bettors Choose Offshore Sportsbooks Over the State App
Rhode Island was quick to legalize sports betting, but its market remains limited. With just one state-run sportsbook available, many bettors in Rhode Island turn to offshore platforms for greater variety, better odds, and a more flexible experience.
While the official option is secure and legal, it comes with drawbacks—such as fewer markets, less competitive pricing, and limited promotions. Offshore sportsbooks help fill those gaps with wider offerings and faster, more convenient access.
You Advantages of Offshore Betting for Rhode Island Players
- More Betting Options — Rhode Island’s single sportsbook doesn’t offer bets on things like political events, entertainment outcomes, or many niche sports. Offshore sportsbooks do—covering everything from the Oscars to esports and international leagues.
- Better Odds & Bonuses — Without local taxes or operational restrictions, offshore sites often provide more favorable odds, higher limits, and bigger bonuses for both new and existing users.
- No Geo-Restrictions — State-regulated apps require you to be physically in Rhode Island with location services enabled. Offshore sportsbooks let you bet from anywhere—no geofencing required.
- Crypto-Friendly Banking — Offshore sites commonly accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies, offering fast and private withdrawals that outpace local payout speeds.
- Easy Registration — Skip the ID uploads, selfie verifications, and detailed background checks. Offshore sportsbooks let you sign up and place bets with minimal friction.
We What You Can’t Bet on Legally in Rhode Island
Even though betting is legal, there are limitations. The state-run platform typically does not allow:
- Entertainment wagers (e.g., award shows)
- Political betting (U.S. or foreign elections)
- Certain esports or niche events
- Creative prop bets or novelty markets
Offshore sportsbooks open the door to all of the above, giving players more freedom and fun with their betting choices.
We Who Can Bet Legally in Rhode Island?
To place a bet through the official Rhode Island sportsbook, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be physically located in Rhode Island (location verified by GPS)
- Create an account through the state platform and complete ID verification
Who Is Prohibited from Betting in Rhode Island?
The following individuals are not allowed to bet legally in the state:
- Coaches, athletes, or staff involved in sports teams
- Employees of the Rhode Island Lottery or affiliated vendors
- Individuals on self-exclusion or gambling restriction lists
Offshore Sportsbooks: A Flexible Alternative
Rhode Island’s official betting platform offers a legal and straightforward option—but it’s far from perfect. Offshore sportsbooks give players more control, better payouts, and fewer restrictions. Whether you’re into niche props, crypto betting, or just want a smoother signup, offshore platforms remain a top choice for savvy Rhode Island bettors.
Key Dates For Rhode Island Sports Betting
- February 3, 2024 – There are hopes that a mobile betting is being developed by state pro betting lobbyists.
- June 28, 2023 – Gov. McKee signs law to start online casino gaming in Rhode Island by March 2024.
- June 17, 2023 – Rhode Island committee approves bill for internet gaming; awaits House’s final vote.
- May 31, 2023 – Sports betting dips, but revenue grows compared to last year.
- April 15, 2023 – Rhode Island Lottery extends deal with IGT to power Sportsbook RI through 2026.
Six Reasons to Bet on These Rhode Island Betting Sites
In terms of selecting the right sportsbook for you, this can be a difficult task. With so many options available to bettors, it’s no surprise that many of our readers are telling us of their difficulties when selecting a bookmaker. The team here is made up of experienced bettors and sports enthusiasts, with a wealth of online wagering experience.
In order to make this process more streamlined and easier to handle for our users, we’ve put together a complete list of the six features all bettors should look out for. These features represent the industry standard in terms of what oddsmakers should provide.
List Of Casinos In Rhode Island
With betting regulated in the Ocean State, many bettors are now taking advantage of land-based betting facilities to place their sports wagers. Rhode Island’s regulation of sports betting means that bettors from surrounding states are flocking to bet in the casinos. So, for any bettors that want to access the odds and betting markets in person, we have put together a complete list of casinos right here.
- Bally’s Twin River Lincoln
- Newport Casino
Rhode Island Sports Betting Timeline
Fortunately, Rhode Island state law regulates sports betting, meaning progress in gambling laws in the state has mostly come to a stop. However, there are always small alterations and lobbyists looking to expand the sports betting markets in the Ocean State.
In order to keep track of the progress of the gambling industry, we’ve put together a timeline at the top of this page where we’ll register any changes made. But, for those that want to follow the progress of sports betting in Rhode Island up to the point when sports betting became regulated, check our timeline below.
2023
Impact of Massachusetts Sports Betting on Rhode Island’s Market
With the recent legalization of sports betting in Massachusetts, Rhode Island’s sports betting industry is experiencing a decline in both handle and revenue. In March 2023, Rhode Island’s handle drops by 3.7% compared to February 2023 and 9.4% from March 2022, potentially indicating the influence of Massachusetts’ entry into the market.
For the fiscal year 2023, Rhode Island’s lottery contributes $435.7 million to the General Fund, with $25.5 million (5.7%) coming from sports betting revenue. Looking ahead, legislators plan to introduce new legislation in 2024 aiming to prohibit smoking in all Rhode Island casinos, a move expected to face opposition.
2019
Senators introduce the S37 bill that they want to pass to the Senate
Rhode Island sports revenue hasn’t been fully realised in the state, as mobile sports wagering isn’t offered. A group of Senators introduced the S37 bill. The bill passed the Senate in February and the House in March, with Governor Gina Raimondo signing the bill into law at the end of March 2019.
2018
A standalone sports betting bill S 2045 appears in front of Senators
A standalone sports betting bill (S 2045) came to light in January, which was backed by various state senators. The bill would allow sports betting at the two Twin River casinos. The projection for sports betting legalisation is an estimated $23.5 million in revenue from the activity. House lawmakers later contested the numbers. The state legislature passed Raimondo’s budget including sports betting in mid-June, with the bill signed on June 22.
Responsible Gaming in Rhode Island
The Rhode Island Council on Problem Gambling (RICPG) offers support to individuals struggling with gambling addiction. RICPG provides information, self-assessments, and guidance for those seeking recovery. Additionally, bettors can voluntarily join a self-exclusion list to ban themselves from gambling facilities in the state.
Rhode Island Sports Betting FAQs
Find answers to common questions bettors like you have when researching which sportsbook to join.
Live betting has become an absolute must for players, as they look to wager on the action as it happens. All our aforementioned bookmakers offer a range of great live betting markets.
We cannot single out one bookmaker as the best. But, we can point you in the direction of the top 5 bookmakers we’ve listed on this page.
The best sports team in Rhode Island is the Rams, which are a collegiate level team and compete in various disciplines of sport, including basketball and American football.
Across any of the top bookmakers we’ve mentioned, you’ll find a range of great prop betting markets throughout the major US leagues and beyond.
Yes, you certainly can. In fact, we’ve listed the only two casinos operating in the Ocean State in this article.
Chris Boline is a renowned sports journalist with a lifelong passion for the industry. Originally from Reno, Nevada, he is a key business development figure in college athletics, with over a decade of experience with the NBA G League, Los Angeles Chargers, and Mountain West Conference. Boline holds an MBA from the University of Nevada. He has received MVP an...
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