Is Sports Betting Legal in Arizona? Everything You Need to Know

Legalization and History

Arizona didn’t jump into sports betting overnight—the process took years of planning, debate, and compromise. The journey to legal sports betting highlights persistence and collaboration, leading to a thriving, well-regulated market.

Arizona’s push for sports betting began after a pivotal moment in U.S. history. In 2018, the Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). This decision allowed states to determine their own stance on sports betting. Conversations started in Arizona, but turning discussions into actions proved challenging.

By 2019, lawmakers drafted bills to legalize sports betting. However, disagreements about dividing licenses between tribal casinos and sports organizations created roadblocks. Significant progress finally came in 2021.

Breaking Through

In February 2021, Arizona’s House of Representatives passed HB 2772, aiming to regulate sports betting and include tribal gaming operations. After months of negotiations, the bill moved to the Senate.

In April 2021, Governor Doug Ducey signed it into law, officially allowing both online and in-person sports betting.

Arizona wasted no time getting the ball rolling. On September 9, 2021, the state’s first sportsbooks opened just in time for the NFL season kickoff.

Why Arizona Legalized Sports Betting?

Arizona’s decision to greenlight sports betting was driven by a combination of practical and forward-thinking goals:

• New Revenue Streams: The state recognized sports betting as a way to generate funding for public services like education and infrastructure.
• Aligning with National Trends: With states across the U.S. embracing sports betting, Arizona saw an opportunity to keep pace with a rapidly growing industry.
• Safer Alternatives for Players: Legalizing sports betting provided a regulated environment, reducing reliance on unregulated, illegal markets.

By carefully balancing tribal interests, economic goals, and consumer protection, Arizona set a precedent for building a sports betting market that benefits both players and the state.

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Recent Developments in Arizona Sports Betting

[February 4, 2025]: Arizona Cracks Down on Sweepstakes Casinos 

[January 28, 2025]: Betcris Makes Its U.S. Comeback with Arizona Sports Betting License 

[January 13, 2025]: Arizona Sports Betting Hits $791M in October 2024

[December 4, 2024]: Bovada Adds Arizona to Its Restricted List

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Regulatory Framework

Arizona’s sports betting market operates under a clear and well-regulated system, ensuring fairness and transparency for everyone involved. The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) is the key agency overseeing the industry. Beyond enforcing the rules, the ADG also sets policies, protects consumers, and fosters a competitive but controlled market.

What the ADG Does

• Licensing Operators: The ADG handles the application and approval process for all sports betting operators, ensuring only trusted organizations enter the market.
• Setting Rules: The department creates guidelines covering bet types, player protections, and data security, ensuring operators meet high standards.
• Monitoring Compliance: Licensed operators are regularly reviewed to ensure they follow the rules. The ADG has the authority to issue fines or revoke licenses if needed.
• Promoting Responsible Gambling: The ADG supports players by offering resources and programs to address gambling-related challenges and promote safer betting habits.

How Licensing Works in Arizona

To keep the market balanced and manageable, Arizona limits the number of available licenses. The 2021 legislation divides these licenses into two main categories:

• 10 Licenses for Tribal Operators: Tribal casinos hold a significant stake in the market, reflecting Arizona’s strong gaming history.
• 10 Licenses for Professional Sports Teams: Teams like the Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns can apply to run sportsbooks at their venues or partner with online operators.

Each license grants operators the ability to operate a physical sportsbook at a casino or sports venue, as well as launch up to two online betting platforms, making it easier to reach players statewide.

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Sports Betting Options in Arizona

Arizona offers plenty of choices for sports betting fans, whether you prefer the excitement of in-person wagering or the convenience of online platforms. Let’s explore the options available in the state.

Retail Sportsbooks

For those who enjoy the traditional sportsbook atmosphere, Arizona has several physical locations where you can place bets while catching live games.

• Tribal Casinos: Many tribal casinos in Arizona feature modern sportsbooks with big screens, comfortable seating, and full-service amenities like bars and restaurants. Popular spots include Desert Diamond Casino, Gila River Casinos, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, and We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort.

• Sports Venues: Major sports facilities in Arizona also host retail sportsbooks, allowing fans to bet while watching their favorite teams in action. Examples include State Farm Stadium (home of the Arizona Cardinals), Footprint Center (home of the Phoenix Suns), and Chase Field (home of the Arizona Diamondbacks).

Online Sports Betting

Arizona is a leader in online sports betting, offering fully legal and regulated platforms for residents and visitors alike. Players can access these platforms via mobile apps or websites, giving them the freedom to bet from anywhere within state lines.

• Top Platforms: Arizona features a wide range of popular operators, including BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars Sportsbook, bet365, and Fanatics Sportsbook.
• Convenience and Accessibility: As long as you’re at least 21 years old and physically located in Arizona, you can easily place bets online. These platforms use geolocation technology to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Currently, Arizona is home to 13 licensed online sportsbooks, including:

• Bally Bet
• bet365
• BetMGM
• BetRivers
• Caesars Sportsbook
• Desert Diamond Sports
• DraftKings Sportsbook
• ESPN BET
• Fanatics Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• Golden Nugget
• Hard Rock Bet
• Sporttrade

Whether you’re heading to a casino or placing bets on your phone, Arizona provides a diverse and accessible sports betting experience for everyone.

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Betting Types and Restrictions

Arizona offers a variety of betting options designed to cater to sports fans of all kinds, but it also has specific rules to ensure a fair and responsible gaming environment. Here’s what you need to know:

Popular Betting Types

Arizona sportsbooks feature a full menu of betting options, covering everything from classic wagers to more intricate styles:

• Moneyline Bets: A straightforward bet on which team will win a game.
• Parlays: Combine multiple bets into one ticket for a chance at higher payouts.
• Over/Under (Totals): Bet on whether the total points scored by both teams will be over or under a specific number.
• Prop Bets: Wagers on specific events within a game, like which player scores first or how many three-pointers a basketball star makes.

Restrictions in Place

While Arizona allows a wide range of bets, there are a few notable restrictions:

• High School Sports: Betting on high school events is strictly prohibited to protect young athletes and maintain integrity.
• College Player Props: Although college sports betting is allowed, individual player prop bets are off-limits. For instance, you can bet on a team to win an NCAA football game but not on how many touchdowns a specific player will score.

Arizona enforces these restrictions to promote ethical practices and protect the integrity of sports. Preventing bets on high school games shields young athletes from undue pressure. Similarly, limiting college player props helps reduce the risk of unfair influences or game manipulation.

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Taxation and Revenue Allocation

Legal sports betting in Arizona is a great contributor to the state’s economy. With a smart tax structure and thoughtful revenue allocation, Arizona ensures that the benefits of sports betting extend well beyond the sportsbooks.

How Arizona Taxes Sports Betting

Arizona uses a tiered tax approach to cover both retail and online sports betting:

• Retail Sportsbooks: Physical sportsbooks, like those found in tribal casinos and sports arenas, are taxed at 8% of their revenue.
• Online Sportsbooks: Digital platforms face a slightly higher tax rate of 10%, reflecting their broader reach and high potential for growth.

Where the Money Goes

Revenue from sports betting taxes is strategically allocated to areas that benefit Arizona residents most:

• Education: A significant portion of the funds supports schools and statewide educational initiatives, helping to improve resources and opportunities for students.
• Infrastructure: Tax dollars are funneled into critical projects, including road repairs, bridge maintenance, and public transit enhancements, improving everyday life for residents.
• General Funds: Remaining revenue is directed into Arizona’s general fund, which supports a variety of public services and state programs.

A notable feature of Arizona’s sports betting framework is its strong support for tribal communities. Tribes hold 10 of the state’s sports betting licenses and retain a substantial portion of their earnings, which directly funds community programs, healthcare, and economic development within their reservations.

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Sports Betting and Professional Teams in Arizona

The legalization of sports betting in Arizona has opened up exciting opportunities, not just for fans but also for professional sports teams. Partnerships between sportsbooks and teams like the Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns have become a driving force in the industry’s growth, benefiting both sides in unique ways.

A Win-Win Partnership

Collaboration between sportsbooks and professional teams creates a dynamic synergy where both parties thrive:

For Sportsbooks:

• Brand Visibility: Aligning with high-profile teams allows sportsbooks to reach a larger audience and strengthen their market presence.
• Access to Loyal Fans: Sports fans are naturally engaged with the action, making them an ideal target for betting promotions.
• Custom Offers: Partnerships enable sportsbooks to offer team-specific promotions and bonuses, creating a more personalized experience for bettors.

For Teams:

• New Revenue Streams: Sponsorships and royalties from sportsbooks provide teams with an additional source of income to support operations.
• Enhanced Fan Engagement: Sports betting adds excitement to games, boosting attendance and viewership while deepening fan loyalty.
• Increased Promotion: Working with sportsbooks opens new marketing channels, increasing the team’s visibility and appeal.

Examples of Successful Partnerships

Arizona’s professional teams have forged strategic alliances with top sportsbooks, setting a high bar for collaboration:

• BetMGM and Arizona Cardinals: BetMGM partnered with the Arizona Cardinals, opening a retail sportsbook at State Farm Stadium. Fans can place live bets during games, adding an extra layer of excitement to the NFL experience.
• FanDuel and Phoenix Suns: FanDuel teamed up with the Phoenix Suns, launching a sportsbook at the Footprint Center. This partnership includes marketing campaigns and exclusive promotions for Suns fans.
• Caesars Sportsbook and Arizona Diamondbacks: Caesars joined forces with the Arizona Diamondbacks, establishing a sportsbook at Chase Field. The venue offers fans an opportunity to wager on MLB games while enjoying the action live.

These partnerships highlight how sports betting and professional teams can work together to enhance fan experiences while driving economic growth.

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Responsible Gambling Initiatives

Arizona takes responsible gambling seriously, ensuring that players can enjoy betting safely while minimizing risks. Both regulators and operators have introduced a range of programs to educate bettors, prevent addiction, and provide support to those in need.

Key Initiatives by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG)

The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) plays a central role in promoting safe betting practices across the state. Some of their standout initiatives include:

• 24/7 Helpline: The state offers a toll-free helpline, 1-800-NEXT-STEP, available around the clock. This service provides confidential support for individuals struggling with gambling issues, as well as their families.
• Educational Resources: The ADG’s website, problemgambling.az.gov, is a hub for tools like self-assessment quizzes, tips for responsible gambling, and lists of treatment centers.
• Self-Exclusion Program: Bettors can voluntarily exclude themselves from all sportsbooks and casinos statewide. This program helps individuals take control of their gambling habits by restricting access to betting venues.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: ADG frequently runs campaigns aimed at raising awareness about gambling risks and encouraging safer play.

What Sportsbooks Are Doing

Licensed sportsbooks in Arizona also contribute to responsible gambling efforts by:

• Setting Limits: Platforms allow users to set deposit, spending, and time limits to help manage their betting habits.
• Self-Exclusion Options: Many operators provide tools for temporary or permanent self-exclusion, enabling players to take a break when needed.
• Educational Content: Websites and apps feature dedicated sections with tips for safe betting, signs of addiction, and links to resources.
• Support for Nonprofits: Some sportsbooks donate to organizations that provide counseling and recovery programs for problem gamblers.

A Holistic Approach

Arizona’s multi-layered approach to responsible gambling ensures that help is always available. By combining education, prevention, and support, the state creates a safer betting environment for everyone.

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Comparison with Neighboring States

Arizona has quickly become a leader in the sports betting landscape, outshining many neighboring states with its dynamic market and innovative approach. Here’s how Arizona stacks up against nearby states like Colorado and Nevada:

Arizona vs. Colorado

• Team Partnerships: Both states have established strong collaborations with professional sports teams, but Arizona’s partnerships with the Arizona Cardinals, Phoenix Suns, and Arizona Diamondbacks add unique value by driving fan engagement through tailored promotions and in-stadium sportsbooks.
• Mobile Accessibility: Like Colorado, Arizona offers a robust selection of mobile betting apps, ensuring players have easy access to online wagering. The competitive environment benefits bettors with bonuses and innovative features.
• Tax Rates: Arizona’s tax rates (8% for retail and 10% for online sportsbooks) align closely with Colorado’s 10% rate, making both states attractive to operators while supporting public funding initiatives.

Arizona vs. Nevada

• Online Registration: Arizona takes the lead over Nevada by allowing bettors to register for online sportsbooks from anywhere in the state. In contrast, Nevada requires in-person registration at a physical sportsbook.
• Team Collaborations: Arizona’s strong focus on partnering with local sports teams creates a unique connection between sportsbooks and fans. Nevada, despite its long-standing reputation in gaming, lacks a similar network of team-focused collaborations.
• Betting Variety: Arizona offers a wide range of betting options, from major sports to niche markets, making it a versatile destination for bettors. While Nevada’s long-established industry provides depth in niche markets, Arizona’s rapid growth continues to close the gap.

Why Arizona Stands Out

• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with local teams like the Cardinals, Suns, and Diamondbacks amplify fan engagement and create unique betting opportunities.
• User-Friendly Regulations: Arizona’s approachable laws, including online registration and competitive tax rates, make it easy for operators and players to thrive.
• Market Growth: Since its launch, Arizona’s sports betting market has shown exponential growth, generating billions in handle and significant state revenue. This upward trend reflects the state’s potential to become a top-tier sports betting destination.

Arizona’s thoughtful approach to regulation, partnerships, and player convenience sets it apart as a model for success in the sports betting industry.

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FAQs About Sports Betting in Arizona

Is sports betting legal in Arizona?

Yes, sports betting has been legal in Arizona since September 9, 2021. Both online and retail sportsbooks operate under strict regulations set by the Arizona Department of Gaming.

What is the legal betting age in Arizona?

You must be at least 21 years old to participate in sports betting, whether online or in-person.

Can I bet on college sports in Arizona?

Yes, betting on college sports is allowed. However, Arizona prohibits prop bets on individual college athletes, ensuring a fair and ethical betting environment.

Do I need to be an Arizona resident to bet online?

No, residency is not required. You only need to be physically located within Arizona when placing bets. Online platforms use geolocation technology to verify your location.

How are winnings taxed in Arizona?

All gambling winnings, including sports betting, are subject to federal and state taxes. Arizona residents should report their winnings when filing taxes.

What options are available for responsible gambling?

Arizona provides a variety of resources, including a 24/7 helpline (1-800-NEXT-STEP) and self-exclusion programs. Licensed sportsbooks also offer tools to help players set betting limits and take breaks when needed.

Which sportsbooks operate in Arizona?

Arizona hosts a competitive market with 13 licensed operators, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, and more. These platforms offer both retail and online betting options.