Ohio Online Gambling

Can you gamble online in Ohio?

WHILE sports betting is technically legal in the state, the wait goes on for Ohio gamblers with January 2023 the date that has been earmarked for its launch.

Legislation passed both chambers and was signed by the state’s governor in December 2021, but they set aside the whole of 2022 to prepare for the changes. On the negative side 12 months is a long time to wait, but for those keen to see extensive betting options, the legislation provides for potentially 25 online sportsbooks.

While the state’s bettors are forced to bide their time, the gambling options are limited to the around 12 casinos and racinos that are located across the state offering horse race betting along with a range of poker and gaming options. 

There are a range of offshore sportsbooks that accept sports bets from Ohio residents, an option that might appear attractive. However, these sites are operating outside US law and as such offer no consumer protection meaning winning bets are not guaranteed to be paid out.   

Expected Sportsbook to Launch in Ohio 2023

Sports betting has been legalized but it will not be launched until 2023, with no current online or offline options in the state. Some Ohio residents opt for a trip across the border to place a bet – Ohio is the only one of five neighboring states not to have sports betting.

Ohio Casino Control Commission has approved the following sportsbook to go live on 1st of January 2023:

• bet365
• BallyBet
• Barstool
• BetFred
• BetMGM
• BetRivers
• Caesars Sportsbook
• Fanatics
• Fanduel
• DraftKings
• SuperBook
• Parx
• PlayUP
• PointsBet
• Underdog Sports
• Tipico
• WynnBET

Ohio Casinos

No plans are in place to legalize online casinos. The land-based venues in the state include casinos and racinos offering an extensive range of gaming including roulette and blackjack.

Online Poker and Card Rooms in Ohio

Online poker is illegal, with live and video poker available at many of the in-person casinos and racinos located across the state.

OH Horse Racing Betting

There are a number of race tracks across the state with seven operating as racinos, offering a variety of casino-style games along with horse race betting. Advance-deposit wagering is also available through operators like TwinSpires and TVG.

Lottery in Ohio

A state lottery has been running since 1974 with ticket sales available in a variety of retail outlets across Ohio. The legal age for lottery play is 18, with no online sales available.  

Ohio DFS

Daily fantasy sports events were legalized in 2018 with the Ohio Casino Control Commission granted oversight. State entries can participate in a range of sports competitions run by the likes of FanDuel and DraftKings.

Ohio Online Gambling FAQs: 

Is Online Gambling Legal in Ohio?

Sports betting is legal in Ohio, but it will not begin until 2023, with extensive online and in-person sportsbooks expected to launch.

Where in Ohio can I get help with problem gambling?  

For some, gambling can become a problem and occasionally spiral out of control. If you, or a friend or relative, is struggling to cope with gambling, help is available. Ohio – National Council on Problem Gambling (ncpgambling.org).