Sports betting
North Carolina

North Carolina sports betting: Comprehensive guide to launch, apps, and bonuses

North Carolina online sports betting is legal as of 2024. NC Sports Betting
Editor's Note
This comprehensive guide to North Carolina's sports betting landscape has been crafted by our experienced authors, Mac Douglass and Ryan Leaver. Based on extensive research and in-depth analysis of the evolving regulations, betting apps, promotions, and legal sports betting options in North Carolina, this page will remain updated with everything North Carolina sports bettors need to know.

North Carolina has officially joined the growing list of states offering legal online sports betting. With its launch occurring on March 11, 2024, this guide provides a detailed overview of what bettors in the Tar Heel State can expect, including information on betting apps, promotions, regulations, and the variety of legal sports betting options available in N.C., which will include March Madness 2024.

North Carolina sports betting launch date and registration period

Legal online sports betting launched in North Carolina on March 11th, 2024. The registration period for online sportsbooks began on March 1st, 2024. During the 3/1/24–3/10/24 early-registration period, North Carolinians could sign up for sports betting accounts and collect pre-launch bonuses. As of 3/11/24, the official launch date of North Carolina sports betting, they can now place online sports bets.

Sports betting history in North Carolina

North Carolina sports betting has existed for years in various forms. Here’s a timeline of the progression of NC sports betting:

  • May 14, 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision allows states to legalize sports betting.
  • July 26, 2019: North Carolina legalizes sports betting on tribal lands.
  • January 2020: Revenue-sharing deal with the Catawba Indian Nation.
  • March 18, 2021: First sports bets placed at Cherokee casinos.
  • April 7, 2021: The first bill for expanded legalization of sports betting is introduced.
  • June 8, 2023: North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper signs H347 into law, legalizing online sports betting.
  • March 1, 2024: The registration period for online sports betting accounts begins in North Carolina.
  • March 11, 2024: Online sports betting operators begin taking wagers in North Carolina.

Introduction to online sports betting in North Carolina

The legalization of online sports betting in North Carolina with House Bill 347 marks a significant milestone in the state’s gambling history. Governed by the North Carolina Lottery Commission, the state is permitted to license up to 11 online sports betting operators, each in partnership with in-state entities like professional sports teams or motorsports facilities.

North Carolina licensing, taxes, and fees for sports betting

Operators are required to adhere to strict licensing protocols, including an annual fee of $1 million over five years. Additionally, they will be taxed at an 18% rate on adjusted gross revenue. Notably, mobile betting is not permitted on tribal lands as per the state’s regulations. Learn more about North Carolina sports betting taxes in our comprehensive guide.

Regulations for NC sports betting

Bettors in North Carolina now have the opportunity to place wagers on a wide range of sports, including professional, collegiate, horse racing and Olympic events. The legal age for participating in online sports betting is set at 21 years and older. The state’s official sports betting regulations can be viewed here.

Geolocation and sports betting compliance

To comply with state-specific betting laws, operators must use geolocation technology. This ensures that all bets are placed within North Carolina. Bettors will need to enable location settings on their devices or use a geolocation plugin for web-based betting platforms.

Understanding different bet types and odds in North Carolina

There are many types of sports bets and odds available in North Carolina. This overview of how to understand odds and different types of sports bets will help you navigate the N.C. betting landscape with confidence.

Bet types explained

  • Moneyline bets: Pick the outright winner. Simple and straightforward.
  • Point spread bets: Balance the playing field between teams with a handicap.
  • Totals (over/under): Predict the combined score to be over or under a certain amount.
  • Parlays: Combine multiple selections for a higher payout, requiring all picks to win.
  • Futures: Long-term predictions, like championship winners.
  • Prop bets: Wagers on specific game occurrences or player achievements.

Odds formats

  • American odds: Indicate favorites (-) and underdogs (+) with payouts based on $100 bets.
  • Decimal odds: Show total payout per $1 bet, making calculation straightforward.
  • Fractional odds: Represent profit relative to stake, common in the UK.

With this guide, step into the world of North Carolina sports betting informed and ready to participate in the excitement. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned bettor, understanding these fundamentals enhances your betting strategy and enjoyment of the game.

Choosing between North Carolina sportsbooks

When it comes to choosing between North Carolina sportsbooks, bettors are faced with a plethora of options, each offering unique features and benefits. The key to selecting the right sportsbook lies in understanding what each platform offers and how it aligns with your betting preferences.

  • FanDuel Sportsbook: Known for its user-friendly interface and a wide range of betting options, FanDuel is a favorite among bettors. For more details, check our review of FanDuel Sportsbook in North Carolina.
  • DraftKings Sportsbook: Offers comprehensive betting markets across various sports, along with innovative features like live betting. Learn more from our review of DraftKings Sportsbook in North Carolina.
  • BetMGM Sportsbook: Renowned for its competitive odds and regular promotions, BetMGM caters to both casual and seasoned bettors. Explore our review of BetMGM Sportsbook in North Carolina for more information.
  • Caesars Sportsbook: Offers a vast array of betting options, backed by one of the most trusted names in casino entertainment. Dive into our review of Caesars Sportsbook in North Carolina for further insights.
  • Bet365 Sportsbook: Known for its extensive market depth and live streaming options, Bet365 is a go-to for many bettors. For an in-depth look, visit our review of Bet365 Sportsbook in North Carolina.
  • Fanatics Sportsbook: A newer entry to the sports betting scene, offering competitive odds and a user-friendly experience for all levels of bettors. Explore what makes Fanatics stand out by checking out our review of Fanatics Sportsbook in North Carolina.
  • Underdog Sportsbook: Known for its innovative approach to sports betting, Underdog Sportsbook offers a unique blend of traditional betting and fantasy sports. Dive into our review for details about Underdog Sportsbook in North Carolina.
  • ESPN Bet Sportsbook: Leveraging the vast sports knowledge and resources of ESPN, ESPN Bet Sportsbook provides bettors with insightful analysis and competitive betting options. Learn more by checking out our review of ESPN Bet Sportsbook in North Carolina.

When choosing a sportsbook, consider factors such as ease of use, payment options, customer support, and of course, the types of bets and sports covered. Each platform has its strengths, so it’s worth exploring what works best for your betting strategy.

North Carolina sportsbook promotions and bonuses

To make the most of your betting experience, it’s crucial to leverage the various promos offered by North Carolina sportsbooks. These promotions can significantly enhance your betting value through welcome offers, bet boosts, and more. Here’s how to maximize these opportunities:

  • Maximize no-deposit bonuses: Almost all sports betting promotions require some of your money up front. However, no-deposit bonuses are temporarily available during the early-registration period (a.k.a. “pre-launch”) period.
  • Explore welcome offers: Welcome bonuses are a great way to start your betting journey. Look for offers that match your deposit or provide risk-free bets to new users. Each sportsbook has unique welcome offers, so compare them to find the best fit.
  • Take advantage of promotions: Regular promotions for existing users can include free bets, odds boosts, and insurance on certain bet types. Stay updated with the latest promotions by visiting the sportsbooks’ promotions pages and subscribing to their newsletters.
  • Use odds boosts wisely: Odds boosts increase the payout on specific bets. They’re a great way to increase potential winnings on bets you were already considering.
  • Refer friends: Many sportsbooks offer referral bonuses. By referring friends, you can earn extra betting credits, and so can they.

It’s important to read the terms and conditions associated with each promo to fully understand how to qualify for and benefit from them. By strategically choosing your sportsbook and making the most of their promotional offers, you can significantly enhance your sports betting experience in North Carolina.

Learn about North Carolina post-launch promos valid after March 11th

Explore our guides to North Carolina’s post-launch promos, available from March 11th:

Responsible sports betting in North Carolina

To address responsible gambling in North Carolina, the state has initiated several measures through the N.C. Problem Gambling Program, funded with an additional $2 million annually. This initiative includes prevention, education, outreach, and treatment services for problem gambling. Key components include a 24/7 helpline, voluntary self-exclusion program, and mandatory responsible gaming features in wagering apps. The program aims to support individuals with gambling problems by offering free, confidential help and resources for recovery.

Impact of sports betting on North Carolina

The introduction of online sports betting is expected to bring substantial benefits to North Carolina, including increased tax revenue and a more regulated gambling environment. It also opens up a new realm of entertainment for sports enthusiasts and bettors in the state.

Betting guides for North Carolina sports

North Carolina sports betting laws allow users to wager on sports all over the world. However, local teams and events are expected to be the most popular betting options. Dive into our comprehensive list of betting guides for popular North Carolina teams and sports. We’ve also covered some of North Carolina’s most infamous sports rivals to help you get an edge.

Betting guides for college sports

Betting guides for professional sports

Conclusion

North Carolina’s foray into online sports betting is a landmark development for the state’s gambling industry. As we have now reached the launch date, both residents and visitors can make the most of a diverse range of betting options, promotional offers, and a user-friendly betting environment.

Stay tuned to this page for more updates and information as legal online sports betting continues to grow in North Carolina!

Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.

If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.

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About the Authors
Mac Douglass
A California native with a background in writing, Mac Douglass covers professional and collegiate sports and the sports betting industry. Having lived in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Melbourne, Australia, Mac has a broad knowledge of American and international sports and specializes in the NBA, NFL, Formula 1, and professional tennis.
Ryan Leaver
Ryan has been writing about sports and sports betting for over five years, with a particularly strong interest in the NBA and NFL, as well as holding a long-held passion for the English Premier League and international soccer.

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