Is Sports Betting Legal In Maryland? How To Find The Best Legal MD Betting App
Sports betting has been fully legal in the state of Maryland since the retail sportsbook launch in December 2021, with online sportsbooks launched in Maryland 11 months later, in November 2022. Sports betting is permitted across a wide range of sports for Maryland bettors, including NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, soccer, and more. One of the most popular sportsbooks for Maryland bettors is Fanatics Sportsbook, who offer competitive odds and bonuses to new and existing customers.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how sports betting laws work in Maryland and show you how to find the best legal MD betting app, with a focus on Fanatics Sportsbook’s user-friendly mobile experience, FanCash rewards programme, and range of promotions designed to enhance your betting experience while keeping things safe and responsible.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Maryland?
Yes, sports betting is legal in the state of Maryland. All sports betting in Maryland is regulated by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) , and bettors must be at least 21 years of age and physically located within approved Maryland parishes to place bets. Fanatics Sportsbook is one of the leading sportsbooks available to sports bettors in Maryland.
When Did Sports Betting Become Legal in Maryland?
Sports betting first became legal in Maryland in December 2021, when the first retail sportsbooks launched. Shortly after, in November 2022, online sportsbooks were launched within the state. Sports betting was approved by many Maryland voters through a statewide referendum in November 2020, paving the way for legal retail and online sportsbooks to launch.
November 2020 sports betting approval
Sports betting was approved by residents of Maryland through a statewide referendum in November 2020, with voters passing the sports betting referendum by a margin of roughly 2 to 1, an overwhelming majority in favor of legalizing sports betting. Two years later, sports betting was available for anyone within Maryland state lines ages 21 or over, across both retail and online betting stores.
Maryland sports betting law explained
Maryland has established a regulated framework for sports betting, with rules governing operator licensing, bettor eligibility, and location requirements. Under state law, you must be at least 21 years old to legally place bets, and you must be physically located within Maryland when wagering, even if you are not a resident. Fanatics Sportsbook is available to bettors in Maryland, offering a range of promotions for both new and existing users.
December 2021 retail sportsbook launch
Following the results of the November 2020 elections, sports betting legalization plans began, and retail sports betting officially launched in Maryland on December 9, 2021, beginning with in-person wagering at five major casinos and stadiums.
November 2022 online sportsbook launch
Less than a year later, following the success if retail sportsbooks in Maryland, online sportsbooks were launched in the state, allowing anyone in Maryland aged 21 or over to place bets on sports. Maryland officially launched online sports betting on November 23, 2022, expanding an established retail betting market.
Maryland sports betting timeline
Here’s a quick timeline of sports betting in Maryland with all the key points in shaping the gambling landscape of the state:
- November 2020: Sports betting was approved by residents of Maryland through a statewide referendum
- December 9 2021: Retail sportsbooks officially launch in Maryland
- November 23 2022: Online sportsbooks officially launch in Maryland
- Today: Maryland is a fully regulated betting market, where apps like Fanatics Sportsbook provide legal, secure access to a wide range of sports betting markets
How to Bet on Sports with Fanatics Sportsbook in Maryland
Fanatics Sportsbook has rapidly gained traction among bettors in Maryland, since the sportsbooks launch in 2023. Driven in part by its FanCash rewards program, which adds extra value for sports fans and bettors. This feature, along with its overall user-friendly offering, has helped position the brand as a strong presence in the state’s betting market. Maryland bettors and sports fans can explore what the Fanatics Sportsbook experience has to offer below.
Downloading the Fanatics Sportsbook app
Maryland bettors can download the Fanatics Sportsbook app from the App Store or Google Play. Designed with a mobile-first focus, the app offers a clean interface, smooth navigation, and a wide range of betting markets across major sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, soccer, and college events. Once installed, users can browse upcoming fixtures, odds, and promotions before registering, making it easy to explore the platform beforehand.
Creating and verifying your account
Creating a Fanatics Sportsbook account is simple, with the signup process typically taking only a few minutes. To create an account, you’ll enter basic details such as your name, address, and date of birth. Because Maryland has a regulated sports betting market, you’ll also need to complete an identity verification step before placing any wagers. All bettors must be at least 21 years old to bet in the state of Maryland.
Depositing funds securely
Once your account is verified, you can add funds using a variety of secure payment methods available in the Fanatics Sportsbook app. The platform prioritizes player security, with reliable banking options and a clear transaction history to help you track your balance. At this point, many users also explore available promotions, including FanCash rewards, which can be used on eligible bets or redeemed for merchandise, collectibles, and more.
Placing your first sports bet
Once your Fanatics Sportsbook account is funded, placing a bet is straightforward. Browse the available sports and markets, select your bets, and add them to your bet slip. The Fanatics Sportsbook app is designed for ease of use, with clear odds, smooth navigation, and features like same-game parlays and live betting across supported events. After confirming your stake, your bet is placed instantly, and you can track it in real time within the app. Markets are available across the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer, and more for Maryland bettors.
Geo-location requirements in Maryland
You must be physically located within Maryland when placing a bet with Fanatics Sportsbook, even if you are only visiting the state temporarily. The app uses geo-location technology to confirm your location before allowing any wagering activity. Being within Maryland state lines is required to ensure all bets comply with regulations set by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA).
Major Maryland Teams You Can Bet On with Fanatics Sportsbook
Maryland has a strong sports culture, and the Fanatics Sportsbook app makes it simple for bettors to follow and wager on their favorite teams. The most popular teams are the Washington Ravens, Washington Commanders, and Washington Wizards, but there's also a strong interest in college programs across the state. Maryland bettors can access a broad range of markets, including moneyline, spread, totals, player props, parlays, futures, and live betting, with Fanatics Sportsbook.
Baltimore Ravens betting
The Baltimore Ravens are one of the most popular franchises in the NFL, and with Fanatics Sportsbook, you can bet on Ravens games across the following markets:
- Game lines like spreads, moneylines, and totals
- Player props for passing, rushing, and receiving
- Same‑game parlays
- Season‑long futures such as win totals or division odds
It's easy to track weekly matchups and live in‑game swings as the Ravens take to the field, with the Fanatics Sportsbook app.
Baltimore Orioles betting
The Baltimore Orioles are a professional baseball team in Maryland, competing in MLB. Fanatics Sportsbook offers a wide range of baseball markets for Maryland bettors, including:
- Moneyline, spreads and totals
- Live betting
- Player Props
- Futures markets
Washington Commanders betting
Maryland is also home to another NFL franchise, the Washington Commanders. The Fanatics Sportsbook app offers a wide range of markets for Commanders games, including:
- Game lines like spreads, moneylines, and totals
- Player props for passing, rushing, and receiving
- Same‑game parlays
- Season‑long futures such as win totals or division odds
You can track your NFL bets in-play using the Fanatics Sportsbook app, as well as place live bets on the Commanders and other teams.
Maryland Terrapins betting
Maryland Terrapins are a college football team based in Maryland, out of the University of Maryland. The Maryland Terrapins compete in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision, and you can bet on them via following markets with Fanatics Sportsbook:
- Moneyline, spreads and totals
- Live betting
- Futures markets
Fanatics Sportsbook offers competitive odds for college football betting in Maryland.
Washington Capitals betting
The Washington Capitals are a professional ice hockey team, competing in the NHL. Here is a list of the ice hockey betting markets offered by Fanatics Sportsbook:
- Moneyline, spreads and totals
- Live betting
- Player Props
- Futures markets
Washington Wizards betting
The Washington Wizards are a professional basketball team in Maryland, competing in the NBA. Fanatics Sportsbook offers a range of team and player markets for NBA betting in Maryland, as well as odds boosts and other promotions. Fanatics' basketball markets include:
- Moneyline, spreads and totals
- Live betting
- Player Props
- Futures markets
The Fanatics Sportsbook app offers several player prop betting options for basketball, including points, rebounds, blocks, assists, and more.
What Can You Bet On with Fanatics Sportsbook in Maryland?
In this section, we’ll break down what sports you can bet on with Fanatics Sportsbook in Maryland, as there is plenty to get involved in from the NFL all the way to golf markets. See our brief explanation for each available below:
NFL betting
NFL betting on Fanatics Sportsbook in Maryland offers a broad selection of team and player markets, including moneylines, point spreads, and totals, alongside props such as touchdown scorers, passing yards, and receiving yards. Users can place bets before kickoff or wager live as the action unfolds, with added value available through odds boosts and NFL-focused promotions. The market is particularly popular in Maryland, home to both the Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens.
NBA betting
NBA betting on the Fanatics Sportsbook app in Maryland features a strong selection of core markets, including moneyline, point spread, and totals, alongside player props for stats like points, rebounds, and assists. Bettors can place wagers before tip-off or get involved during games with live betting, while same-game parlays allow for more customized bets. With odds boosts and a user-friendly mobile experience, the app provides a seamless way to bet on basketball. Maryland is home to the Washington Wizards.
MLB betting
MLB betting on Fanatics Sportsbook offers key markets such as moneyline, run line, and total runs, providing an easy entry point for new bettors. As games progress, users can get involved with live wagering, while same-game parlays and odds boosts add extra flexibility when building bets in the app. MLB markets are available to all eligible bettors in Maryland, with local team Baltimore Orioles being a popular team to bet on.
NHL betting
The Fanatics Sportsbook app supports live betting and same-game parlays for NHL, with an intuitive, easy-to-use interface that simplifies placing and tracking wagers. Bettors can access markets such as match winner, puck line, total goals, and a variety of player props. Maryland is the home of NHL team Washington Capitals, with NHL betting a popular market among Maryland sports bettors.
College sports betting
College sports betting in Maryland is offered through Fanatics Sportsbook for major events and games. The app is beginner-friendly and easy to navigate, while extras like live betting and regular promotions help add more excitement during key matchups. College sports markets feature standard betting markets such as moneyline, point spread, and totals across supported games. You can bet on college football in Maryland, and more via the Fanatics Sportsbook app.
Soccer betting
Fanatics Sportsbook's soccer markets include match result, total goals, and both teams to score, with extensive coverage across major leagues and international competitions. Maryland bettors can place bets in real time as matches unfold, while same-game parlays offer a simple way to combine multiple selections into one wager.
Golf betting
Golf markets are easy to navigate within the Fanatics Sportsbook app. It's easy to track your golf bets, with golf betting available in Maryland, focusing on the popular outright winners, tournament matchups, and finishing positions. Odds updates and promotions help users stay engaged across multi-day golf events and competitions.
UFC and MMA betting
UFC and MMA betting on Fanatics Sportsbook features a range of core markets, including fight winner, alongside props for method of victory and round betting. The app’s user-friendly design makes it easy to add selections to your bet slip, with odds boosts often available for major events. These markets are accessible to all eligible bettors in Maryland.
Tennis betting
Fanatics Sportsbook offers live betting during tennis matches, allowing bettors to react to changes in game-state in real time and easily track your wagers within the app. Tennis betting also includes popular pregame markets such as match winner, set betting, and total games, making it accessible for all levels of bettors.
Live betting
Fanatics Sportsbook offers live betting across a range of sports for Maryland customers, allowing you to place wagers in real time as events unfold. Live betting is available for NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, soccer, and more with Fanatics Sportsbook. With constantly updating odds, the in-play feature provides greater flexibility and the opportunity to find value at any stage of a game.
Parlays and same-game parlays
Parlays allow you to combine multiple picks into one bet, while same-game parlays let you group outcomes from a single event for a more targeted wagering approach. Fanatics Sportsbook offers both parlays and same-game parlays to Maryland bettors across a range of sports and events. Fanatics Sportsbook's Bet Builder feature makes it easy to customize your selections and enhance potential returns with available promotions.
Futures betting
This betting type focuses on long-term outcomes, such as predicting league winners or season results before or during a competition. Fanatics Sportsbook offers futures markets across major sports, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, and soccer. Futures markets on the Fanatics Sportsbook app are easy to browse and are regularly updated with the latest odds and promotions as seasons progress.
Player props betting
Player prop markets are easy to explore within the app and can be added to same-game parlays for a more tailored betting experience. Player props are available across NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and soccer for both new and existing Fanatics Sportsbook users. Player props betting on Fanatics Sportsbook centers on individual performances, such as points, goals, or assists in a game.
Fanatics Sportsbook Maryland Bonuses & Promotions
Fanatics Sportsbook runs regular bonuses and promotions for customers wagering in Maryland, as one of the household names in the US sports betting industry. Below, we will explain the latest Fanatics Sportsbook welcome bonus, any odds and profit boosts available, FanCash rewards and more.
Fanatics Sportsbook welcome bonuses
New Fanatics Sportsbook customers in Maryland can claim up to $350 in bonuses when placing a $20 bet, making it one of the most generous welcome offers available in the state. The promotion is subject to terms, wagering requirements, and Maryland gaming regulations, so be sure to review the full details in the app before signing up. Bonus structure and crediting may vary depending on state guidelines.
Odds boosts and profit boosts
Fanatics Sportsbook offers a selection of odds boosts and profit boosts across major sports and events, helping to increase potential returns on chosen markets in leagues such as the NFL, NBA, and MLB. These promotions are built directly into the app, allowing users to easily apply boosted odds while browsing fixtures or creating parlays. It’s important to check the terms before opting in, as availability and eligibility may vary by event and user.
Bet and get promotions
Bet and get promotions are designed to be simple and accessible, with clear instructions provided within the app. As a key part of Fanatics Sportsbook’s promotions, they provide an easy way for users to unlock extra value. These offers typically include specific requirements, such as minimum odds or stake amounts, and reward bettors with bonus bets or FanCash after placing a qualifying wager.
Reduced juice betting offers
Reduced juice promotions are occasionally offered by Fanatics Sportsbook to Maryland customers, cutting the margin on selected markets to provide improved value on specific bets across various sports and events. Reduced juice offers can result in sharper pricing on popular events, particularly across major US sports, although these promos are typically restricted to certain games or limited time periods.
FanCash rewards and referral bonuses
FanCash is a central feature of the Fanatics Sportsbook experience, acting as a loyalty-style reward earned through qualifying bets and promotions. It can be applied to future wagers within the app, adding ongoing value for regular users. Beyond betting, FanCash can also be redeemed on Fanatics merchandise, including tickets, jerseys, trading cards, and more. Referral promotions may also be available from Fanatics Sportsbook, rewarding Maryland users for bringing in new customers, although availability and terms will depend on current offers and Maryland regulations.
Maryland Sports Betting Restrictions
Before placing any wagers in Maryland, it’s important to look at the sports betting restrictions in this state, as you will need to meet the requirements below in order to do so.
Minimum betting age requirements
You must be at least 21 years old to legally place a sports bet in Maryland. This rule applies across all licensed sportsbooks, including mobile apps like Fanatics Sportsbook, and is strictly enforced as part of the state’s regulated gambling framework.
Geo-location requirements
Maryland law requires bettors to be physically located within state lines when placing a wager. Licensed apps such as Fanatics Sportsbook use geo-location technology to verify your location before accepting bets, ensuring all activity complies with betting regulations within Maryland. You don't have to reside in Maryland, but you must be within state lines when placing your sports bets.
College sports betting restrictions
College sports betting is allowed in Maryland, but there are some important restrictions in place. While bettors can wager on game outcomes and team markets, bets on college player props are not permitted, as part of measures to protect athletes and maintain the integrity of college competitions. The Lottery directed sports wagering operators to stop taking such bets as of March 1, 2024.
Player prop restrictions
One of the key restrictions involves player prop bets on in-state college athletes, which are not allowed under Maryland law, since March 2024. You cannot wager on player prop bets for the Maryland Terrapins, as well as other college teams. This helps reduce potential risks around student-athletes.
Licensed sportsbooks only
Maryland has a fully regulated sports betting market, with all legal wagering taking place through licensed operators overseen by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) . Fanatics Sportsbook operates within this regulated environment, providing important consumer protections such as secure payment processing, account verification, and integrated responsible gaming tools that are not typically available with unregulated platforms.
Offshore sportsbook risks
Offshore betting sites are not permitted in Maryland. By using a licensed sportsbook like Fanatics Sportsbook, you benefit from protections under state law, ensuring both your funds and personal information are secure. Offshore sportsbooks operate outside of Maryland regulation, meaning they lack proper consumer safeguards and do not guarantee reliable payouts, unnecessarily risking your stakes.
Responsible Gambling with Fanatics Sportsbook in Maryland
In this section, we’ll provide you with the latest advice on responsible gambling and where to find help if and when you need it. Fanatics Sportsbook strongly encourages all players in Maryland to follow responsible gambling guidance to the letter. Responsible gambling is a crucial part of sports betting.
Maryland problem gambling resources
Maryland offer a range of options for responsible gambling help and advice. The state’s primary 24/7, confidential helpline provides free referrals to counselors and resources, and can be contacted on 1-800-GAMBLER. The National Problem Gambling Helpline is also available 24/7, by calling or texting 1-800-522-4700 for national and local support for gambling problems.
Maryland self-exclusion programs
Maryland’s Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) allows individuals to self-exclude from all state-regulated gambling, including casinos, the lottery, sports betting, and daily fantasy sports. Enrollment must be completed in person, with options to sign up for a minimum term of two years or choose a lifetime exclusion. In addition, Fanatics Sportsbook offers a range of self-exclusion options for Maryland customers, including the option to self exclude your account, for time period between one year and a lifetime.
Deposit limits and betting controls
Fanatics Sportsbook includes a range of built-in responsible gaming tools designed to help users manage their betting activity. These features include deposit limits, wagering caps, and session time controls, all of which can be set on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Easily accessible within the app, these tools allow you to tailor limits to your preferences, with any reductions taking effect immediately.
Gambling support organizations
As detailed above, Maryland bettors have access to a wide range of problem gambling support initiatives and organizations. Both the National Problem Gambling Helpline and 1-800-GAMBLER provide 24/7 support for Maryland bettors. Additional options include the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling (MARG), and Gamblers Anonymous & Gam-Anon.
Responsible gaming tools
Fanatics Sportsbook offers a range of responsible gaming tools, including account timeouts, self-exclusion options, deposit method restrictions, and the ability to fully close your account if needed. These features are designed to encourage safe and controlled betting for Maryland customers. All tools are integrated directly into the app for easy access, with additional prompts and safeguards built into the overall experience. Combined with Maryland regulations and support systems, these features help promote responsible play at all times when sports betting.
Maryland Sports Betting FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes, sports betting is fully legal in Maryland, with both online and retail sportsbooks operating under regulation from the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA).
How old do you have to be to bet in Maryland?
You must be 21 or older to place a sports bet in Maryland, whether using a mobile app like Fanatics Sportsbook or a retail sportsbook.
Where can I legally bet on sports in Maryland?
You can place bets online using licensed sportsbook apps or in person at authorized retail sportsbooks located across Maryland.
Do I need to live in Maryland to use a betting app?
No, you don’t need to be a resident, but you must be physically located within Maryland state lines when placing a bet using apps like Fanatics Sportsbook.
Is Fanatics Sportsbook available in Maryland?
Yes, Fanatics Sportsbook is a licensed operator available to Maryland bettors, offering a regulated mobile betting experience across major sports markets.
How do I place a bet on Fanatics Sportsbook?
To get started, download the app, create and verify your account, deposit funds, then browse the available markets and add your selection to the bet slip before confirming your wager.
Are there bonuses and promotions available in Maryland?
Yes, licensed sportsbooks like Fanatics Sportsbook offer promotions such as welcome bonuses, odds boosts, and FanCash rewards for Maryland bettors, although these are subject to terms, conditions, and state regulations.
Can I bet on college sports in Maryland?
Yes, college sports betting is allowed, but there are restrictions on certain markets, particularly around player-specific wagers and specific teams. College sports player prop betting is illegal in Maryland.
Are player prop bets allowed in Maryland?
Player prop bets are allowed for professional sports, including NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB, but college player props are restricted, especially for in-state teams, in order to protect student athletes.
Can I bet on my phone in Maryland?
Yes, mobile betting is fully legal in Maryland, provided you are 21+ and physically located within the state when placing your bets.