Tennessee is a state that has embraced the world of sports betting. With the legalization of online sports betting, residents and visitors have access to a wide range of options for placing bets on their favorite sports. While there are no physical casinos or retail sportsbooks within the state, online platforms have made it convenient and easy for individuals to engage in sports betting activities. In today's article, Wintips will give an overview of sports betting Tennessee and answer the question Is betting in Tennessee legal?
Tennessee Overview
In the southeastern United States, Tennessee is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. The state is home to vibrant cities, such as Nashville, the capital and music capital of the country, and Memphis, famous for its blues and barbecue. Let's take a closer look at the key aspects of Tennessee. The state is home to professional sports teams like the NFL's Tennessee Titans and the NHL's Nashville Predators. College sports, particularly football, are prevalent, with the University of Tennessee's Volunteers football team enjoying a massive following.
Tennessee's economy is diverse, with industries including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The state is a leading producer of tobacco, textiles, and chemicals. Nashville has become a center for music production, publishing, and entertainment, while Memphis is a hub for transportation and distribution. Over time, as technology developed, Tennessee attracted a large number of online gamblers, contributing to increased income for the people and tax revenues.
Tennessee borders Mississippi to the south, where casino gambling options are plentiful. Additionally, western Missouri offers more gambling opportunities, accounting for the majority of gambling activity by Tennessee residents. A study by the Tennessee pro-gambling lobby found that 10% of Mississippi's total gambling income comes directly from Tennessee residents.
The current state of Tennessee sports betting
Tennessee Sports Betting History
2016: Governor Bill Haslam signed the Fantasy Sports Act, legalizing daily fantasy sports in Tennessee. After changes to national laws on legal sports betting in 2018, it took some time for the state to take significant action.
2018: Legalization Efforts Begin - In May 2018, the United States Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), which had effectively banned sports betting in most states. This ruling opened the door for individual states to legalize and regulate sports betting within their borders.
2019: Online-Only Approach - Tennessee took a unique approach to sports betting by becoming the first state to legalize online-only sports wagering. In May 2019, Governor Bill Lee allowed the Tennessee Sports Gaming Act to become law without his signature. This legislation allowed online sports betting platforms to operate in the state without the need for physical casinos or retail sportsbooks.
2020: Launch of Sports Betting - Tennessee's online sports betting market officially launched on November 1, 2020. Several licensed operators entered the market, providing residents and visitors with access to a range of sports betting options through mobile apps and websites.
2021: In March, Action 24/7 was suspended by the Tennessee Education Lottery (TEL) after an internal investigation uncovered evidence of money laundering and proxy betting. A federal judge later allowed Action 24/7 to resume online operations. Tennessee set a record-breaking month in November when online sportsbooks in the state generated over $375 million in sports betting handles.
2022: The Sports Wagering Advisory Council took over as the regulatory agency for sports betting in Tennessee, replacing the Tennessee Education Lottery. As the Tennessee sports betting market continues to evolve, it is likely to see further growth and potential expansion. The state may explore opportunities to refine regulations, expand the number of licensed operators, and potentially consider the introduction of retail sportsbooks in the future.
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Tennessee Sports Betting Laws and Regulations
The Supreme Court of the United States opened the door for individual states to legalize sports betting in May 2018. While Tennessee did not immediately pursue legalization, the situation changed the following year when a sports betting bill was passed by the legislature. Sports betting officially became legal in the state in June 2019. It took a considerable amount of time from that point for sports betting to launch in the state.
The final rules and regulations were established the following year, and online sportsbooks opened in November 2020. Here are some key aspects of Tennessee's sports betting law:
- The state taxes the total gambling revenue at a rate of 20%.
- The legal age for participating in sports betting in Tennessee is 21 years old.
- Any operator wishing to offer sports betting services in Tennessee must obtain a license from the TELC.
- Licensed operators are required to pay an annual fee of $750,000.
- Sportsbooks have a mandatory hold requirement of 10% on all bets.
Popular Sports to bet on in Tennessee
- Football.
- Basketball.
- Baseball.
- Golf.
- Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).
- NASCAR.
Is it legal to participate in sports betting in Tennessee?
Sports betting is legal in Tennessee. We would like to confirm that this is 100% true. In 2019, the state passed a law allowing online sports betting, and it officially launched on November 1, 2020. Tennessee became the first state to permit only online and mobile sports betting, without any physical sportsbooks.
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation is responsible for overseeing and regulating sports betting activities in the state. Residents and visitors of Tennessee who are at least 21 years old can participate in legal sports betting through licensed operators' online platforms. However, it's always advisable to stay updated with the latest laws and regulations, as they can change over time.
Discover the best betting site free bets and maximize your winning potential.
Top 10 best Tennessee sports bookmakers
1. FanDuel
The interface on this Tennessee sports betting app is user-friendly, making it a convenient choice. You can quickly find the markets and bet types you're looking for on both Android and iOS devices. However, we have received some user complaints that the FanDuel app can experience issues during peak traffic hours. In addition to the user-friendly layout, FanDuel provides helpful guides for newcomers on how to deposit funds and place bets. It also has a dedicated section for free play contests. The guides and free play options are perfect for new bettors who are learning and building their bankrolls.
You can bet on a variety of sports and markets at the FanDuel Sportsbook, including popular options like football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. You'll also find more exotic markets like Australian Rules and darts. Similar to other top Tennessee betting websites, this operator also offers live betting options. FanDuel offers multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and online bank transfers. Withdrawals are typically processed within 24-48 hours without transaction fees. If you need to contact a FanDuel representative, you can utilize their customer support services through live chat, email, and phone. The website's expanded help center also provides detailed answers to frequently asked questions.
2. BetMGM
BetMGM is a reputable sports betting website established as a joint venture between MGM Resorts International and Entain. It offers an excellent combination of sports betting options, ranging from popular US sports like football and baseball to international sports like soccer and rugby. In recent years, the sportsbook has leveraged its renowned MGM brand to establish premium partnerships, such as with the NHL's Nashville Predators. Such partnerships add further credibility to online betting websites, as is the case here.
The BetMGM Rewards program provides another reason to choose this sportsbook. Similar to the Caesars Rewards, it brings together a fantastic blend of online perks and resort privileges. Customers of BetMGM Sportsbook can place bets on major US leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, as well as college sports and international competitions. In addition to traditional sports betting options like money lines and totals, BetMGM offers various prop bets and live betting features.
3. DraftKings
DraftKings is a leading provider of online sports betting and daily fantasy sports (DFS), and it expanded to include sports betting in Tennessee in 2020. It was one of the first online sports betting websites to launch in Tennessee and quickly became a top choice. Its Tennessee sports betting app is user-friendly and offers in-game live betting, increased odds boosts, and a rewards program.
You can also expect major betting tournaments with prize pools reaching five or even six figures. DraftKings' unique offerings are what make it stand out from the rest. While they don't provide a direct social casino, they pride themselves on offering free cash promotions for playing, social elements, and detailed rewards programs based on achievements. These are all aspects you won't find on the average TN sports betting website.
4. Caesars
Caesars Sportsbook is a well-known brand in the sports betting and casino industry. Its online betting platform offers a variety of markets and betting options. One of its standout features is a simple interface that makes navigation and placing bets easy. The platform also provides competitive odds and numerous promotional programs to attract players. The promotions include a massive welcome bonus worth up to $1,250 in free bet insurance.
Offering a comprehensive selection of sports to bet on, Caesars' market includes popular US sports like football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. Players can choose from various bet types, including point spreads, money lines, totals, parlays, and teasers. The platform also features live betting, where bettors can place real-time bets during a game.
5. WynnBET
Launched in Tennessee in 2020, WynnBET benefits from the reputation and experience of its parent company, Wynn Resorts. One unique selling point of WynnBET is its focus on providing a personalized betting experience. This emphasis includes betting recommendations to help you make informed decisions and enhance the overall experience. The WynnBET experience also includes useful resources and live betting statistics.
Valuable resources here include betting tips, guides, podcasts, and news videos. Wynn's in-game statistics assist you in tracking games and placing informed live bets. WynnBET offers a wide range of markets for customers to bet on, including major US sports leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. It covers international sports like soccer, tennis, and rugby as well. This sportsbook also provides various betting options, including moneyline, point spread, and totals, as well as futures and prop bets.
6. Hard Rock
Hard Rock Sportsbook offers betting options on major US sports leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAA. It also covers international markets like European soccer and basketball. However, the depth of markets available for each sport is limited, with only a few options per game. This may not be sufficient for customers seeking a wider variety of betting types.
You can use credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and PayNearMe to deposit and withdraw funds at Hard Rock. The withdrawal processing times are relatively fast, with e-wallets taking less than 24 hours and other methods taking 2-5 business days. However, some customers may be disappointed, as this sportsbook does not offer cryptocurrency payments.
7. Betly
Speaking of tournaments, you can expect regular betting competitions here. Betly rewards top finishers in tournaments as well as overall betting action. You can use coins to purchase different rewards in the Betly Store. Betly offers one of the smallest bonuses in the state (up to $250 protection for your first bet). Fortunately, the rewards and tournaments help compensate for the smaller bonus.
Sportsbook Betly currently provides 17 sports, including popular options like soccer, basketball, baseball, and hockey. It also has some unusual markets such as Australian rules football, darts, and rugby. Several payment options are accepted at Betly, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, online banking, and the Play+ prepaid card. Withdrawals are processed within 1-2 business days, faster than the industry average.
8. Barstool
Barstool Sportsbook ranks in our top 10 due to the strength of Parlay+ and its personalized experience. Parlay+ is one of the best tools in the industry for placing parlay bets on the same game or across multiple sports. You can customize your Barstool betting experience by selecting 'options' according to your preferences.
This sportsbook certainly offers frequent promotional programs. However, it compensates for this through the enhanced PENN Play rewards program. PENN Play is connected to the Penn National casino resorts (Barstool's land-based partner). You'll find popular options like soccer, basketball, baseball, and hockey. Additionally, you can find niche sports like archery, cycling, and rugby.
9. Action 24/7
Action 24/7 does not offer the most extensive selection of sports, with only 15 sports available at the time of our review. Its rewards are also smaller compared to other betting websites in Tennessee. However, we still believe it is a valid option for Tennessee bettors. The Action247 provides various markets, including popular US sports leagues such as the NFL, MLS, NBA, MLB, and NHL.
It also covers international markets like soccer, tennis, and golf. This sportsbook also offers in-game betting options, allowing you to place bets during live matches. Different payment options are accepted at Action 24/7, including PayPal, debit cards, credit cards, and online bank transfers. Same-day withdrawals are available through PayPal, which is the most convenient option here.
10. SuperBook
SuperBook is a long-established betting site USA with a rich history of providing excellent sports betting options to its customers. It was initially founded in 1985 and has since expanded online in Tennessee and other states. On average, you can expect some of the best odds available in the state at the SuperBook online sports betting site. This betting website also features SuperContests, which can offer the highest prizes worth up to $1.4 million. You will also have access to entertaining podcasts, along with comprehensive guides on Sports Betting 101.
Please note that the support hours for SuperBook Tennessee are limited. You will also have fewer payment methods to choose from. This betting website offers a variety of markets, including soccer, basketball, baseball, hockey, football, and more. It also provides different types of bets, including moneyline, point spread, totals, futures, and prop bets. Additionally, SuperBook offers live betting options for most sports markets.
Tennessee Sports Betting FAQ
Where can I place sports bets in Tennessee?
Tennessee is the only state that allows online sports betting. There are no physical casinos within the state, and there are no plans to open retail sportsbooks at the moment. Since its launch in 2019, there have been 10 sports betting apps operating in the state, including BetMGM, FanDuel, and DraftKings.
How old do you have to be to place sports bets in Tennessee?
The legal age to place sports bets in Tennessee is 21. As part of the registration process, sportsbooks will verify your age and identity. If there are any issues in doing so, you may be required to provide supporting documentation.
Is horse race betting legal in Tennessee?
There are no operating racetracks, off-track betting, or simulcast websites in Tennessee. You can place bets online at TwinSpires, but TVG is currently not available in the state.
Can I place bets with offshore sportsbooks from Tennessee?
Technically, you can do so, but it is illegal. Offshore sportsbooks like Bovada and BetOnline do not comply with any Tennessee or U.S. regulations, including rules meant to protect bettors.
Therefore, you would be taking a significant risk by doing business with any offshore sportsbook. There would be no recourse to protect your data or funds.
Are daily fantasy sports (DFS) legal in Tennessee?
Daily fantasy sports contests have been legal in Tennessee since Governor Bill Haslam signed the Fantasy Sports Act in 2016. Both DraftKings and FanDuel, two major DFS operators, are available in the state.
Is college sports betting legal in Tennessee?
Yes, you can place bets on college sports in Tennessee. There are no restrictions on betting on in-state schools like Tennessee or Vanderbilt, but the state does not allow direct prop betting on college games or on individual college athletes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sports betting in Tennessee is legal and accessible through online platforms. The state has embraced online sports betting and currently allows various licensed sportsbooks to operate within its borders. However, there are no physical casinos or retail sportsbooks available in Tennessee. While you can bet on college sports, there are certain restrictions, such as prohibiting prop betting on college games and individual college athletes. It is important to note that betting with offshore sportsbooks from Tennessee is illegal and carries significant risks. Overall, Tennessee offers a regulated and secure environment for sports betting enthusiasts to engage in legal online wagering.