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

History of Sports Betting Legislation

The journey to legal sports betting in Indiana was marked by swift legislative action and a proactive approach from state lawmakers. The turning point came in 2018 when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allowing individual states to regulate sports wagering. Indiana wasted no time in preparing for this shift, introducing House Bill 1015 in anticipation of federal legalization.

Governor Holcomb Seals the Deal

By May 8, 2019, Governor Eric Holcomb officially signed HB 1015 into law, making Indiana one of the first states in the Midwest to permit both retail and online sports betting.

The legislation allowed casinos, racetracks, and off-track betting parlors to partner with online sportsbook operators, creating a well-regulated market.

Sportsbooks Go Live – Just in Time for Football

The first in-person sportsbooks opened on September 1, 2019, perfectly timed to coincide with the start of the NFL season, ensuring immediate interest from bettors.

A month later, on October 3, 2019, online and mobile betting platforms launched, making wagering even more accessible.

A Friendly Market for Operators and Bettors

Unlike some other states, Indiana took a business-friendly approach by not requiring integrity fees to be paid to sports leagues and allowing operators to use data from any source.

This helped create a competitive and attractive market, benefiting both sportsbooks and bettors.

Legality of Sports Betting in Indiana

Indiana has established a well-structured and transparent legal framework for sports betting, ensuring that operators comply with strict licensing and operational requirements.

To legally offer sports wagering in the state, sportsbooks must obtain a license from the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC), which oversees all betting activities.

A one-time licensing fee of $100,000 is required, followed by an annual renewal fee of $50,000. Additionally, sportsbooks must maintain a minimum financial reserve of $500,000 to ensure financial stability and player payouts.

A Competitive Tax Rate for Sportsbooks and Players

Unlike some states with higher tax burdens, Indiana has adopted a 9.5% tax rate on adjusted gross sports betting revenue, making it attractive for operators. Bettors, on the other hand, are subject to a 3.23% state tax on gambling winnings.

If a player does not provide a Social Security Number (SSN), casinos withhold up to 28% of their winnings for federal and state tax purposes. These tax policies balance revenue generation for the state while maintaining a favorable environment for both sportsbooks and bettors.

What You Can and Can’t Bet On in Indiana

Indiana allows betting on professional and college sports, but some restrictions apply. Player prop bets on in-state collegiate athletes are prohibited, preventing potential integrity concerns.

While wagering on the NFL Draft is permitted, political events and esports betting remain off-limits on regulated platforms.

However, offshore sites may offer these options, though they lack the protections and oversight provided by Indiana’s licensed sportsbooks.

Advanced Monitoring and Security Measures

To ensure compliance and prevent fraudulent activities, the IGC enforces strict monitoring protocols, including the use of geofencing technology. This ensures that online wagers are placed only within Indiana state lines, preventing unauthorized bets from other jurisdictions.

The IGC also regulates the catalog of approved sporting events, banning betting on games suspected of match-fixing or integrity concerns. Additionally, Indiana does not impose mandatory integrity fees or require sportsbooks to purchase official league data, giving operators greater flexibility in setting odds and managing risk.

Legal Sports Betting Continues to Grow

With 15 retail sportsbooks located primarily in casinos and over a dozen licensed online sportsbooks, Indiana offers a thriving sports betting market. The state continues to adapt to industry trends, expanding betting options while ensuring consumer protection.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Bet in Indiana?

Indiana law sets a strict minimum age of 21 for anyone looking to place a sports bet, whether online or at a retail sportsbook. This requirement applies to all licensed and regulated operators within the state. Anyone under 21 years oldis also prohibited from entering designated sports betting areas in casinos or other licensed venues.

Betting on Horse Racing Has Different Rules

While sports betting requires individuals to be at least 21, the rules are slightly different when it comes to horse racing. Indiana allows 18-year-olds to place wagers on horse races at racetracks and online platforms specializing in pari-mutuel betting.

However, younger bettors are still restricted from participating in traditional sports betting, even if the venue is located at a racetrack.

Employees in Sportsbooks Have Their Own Restrictions

People aged 18 to 20 can be employed in Indiana casinos and sportsbooks, but with restrictions. They may work in establishments that offer sports betting but cannot handle wagers or perform duties directly related to sports betting transactions.

This ensures compliance with state gambling laws while still allowing young adults to gain employment in the industry in non-wagering roles.

Play It Safe and Stick to the Rules

Indiana enforces clear age restrictions to maintain a responsible and well-regulated betting environment. Whether betting in-person or online, players should always ensure they meet the legal age requirement of 21 before participating in sports wagering.

For those under 21 but interested in legal betting options, horse racing remains a regulated alternative within the state.

Where to Place Legal Sports Bets in Indiana

Indiana provides a variety of locations for sports betting, catering to those who prefer the traditional casino atmosphere as well as those who enjoy the convenience of online betting.

Casino-Based Sportsbooks Offer a Full Experience

For those who prefer the thrill of betting in a lively casino environment, Indiana is home to several brick-and-mortar sportsbooks located inside licensed casinos.

These venues offer betting windows, self-service kiosks, and large screens broadcasting games in real-time. Popular casinos with in-person sportsbooks include Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, Horseshoe Hammond, and Caesars Southern Indiana, among others.

Betting at Racetracks and Off-Track Locations

In addition to casinos, Indiana’s racetracks offer another legal way to place sports bets. Harrah’s Hoosier Park and Horseshoe Indianapolis allow visitors to wager on both horse racing and other sporting events.

Meanwhile, off-track betting (OTB) locations such as Winner’s Circle in Indianapolis and New Haven provide a more relaxed setting that combines sports betting with a bar-style atmosphere.

These OTB venues, once dedicated solely to horse racing, have expanded to include a wide range of sports betting options.

Online and Mobile Sportsbooks: The Most Convenient Option

For those who prefer to bet from anywhere, Indiana offers a fully regulated online sports betting market with numerous licensed platforms. FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, and BetRivers are just a few of the online sportsbooks available.

These platforms provide mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing users to place bets instantly from their phone, tablet, or computer as long as they are physically located in Indiana. Geolocation technology ensures compliance with state laws, verifying that bets are placed within state lines.

Accessibility and Registration Process

One of the benefits of Indiana’s sports betting laws is the easy registration process for online sportsbooks. Unlike some states that require in-person registration, Indiana allows bettors to sign up remotely from anywhere in the state.

Whether using a mobile app or website, users must verify their age (21+) and location before placing bets. With 15+ retail sportsbooks and multiple online platforms, Indiana provides plenty of safe, legal betting options for sports fans.

Online Sportsbooks in Indiana

Indiana bettors have access to some of the biggest names in the industry, including FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, and BetRivers.

Each platform provides intuitive mobile apps for iOS and Android, making it easy to place wagers from anywhere within state borders. Features such as live betting, same-game parlays, early cash-out options, and customized promotions enhance the betting experience and cater to both novice and experienced players.

Top Online Sportsbooks Live in Indiana

Indiana’s online sports betting market is one of the most competitive in the U.S., featuring a variety of licensed operators that cater to different betting preferences.

All online sportsbooks in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) and must partner with a land-based casino to legally operate.

As of 2025, the following 11 sportsbooks are live and available for bettors in Indiana:

• Bally Bet – Known for its low wagering requirements on bonuses.
• BetMGM – Offers a wide range of betting options and a secure platform backed by MGM Resorts.
• BetRivers – Popular for multi-game parlays and live streaming of NHL games.
• bet365 – Features a user-friendly interface and strong in-play betting options.
• Caesars Sportsbook – Provides a top-tier loyalty program and one of the best mobile apps.
• DraftKings Sportsbook – Known for fast payouts and integrated Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS).
• ESPN BET – Newly rebranded from Barstool, offering reliable betting options and ESPN integrations.
• Fanatics Sportsbook – Features a highly-rated rewards program and live streaming capabilities.
• FanDuel Sportsbook – Offers an easy-to-use platform with industry-leading same-game parlays.
• Hard Rock Bet – Provides competitive odds and a smooth mobile experience.
• SBK Sportsbook – A social betting platform with a community-driven approach.

Each of these sportsbooks offers secure and legal sports betting within Indiana, complete with promotions, live betting options, and mobile compatibility.

Offshore Betting vs. Legal Platforms

While offshore sportsbooks like Bovada and BetOnline continue to attract some bettors, they operate without state regulation, meaning users lack legal protections if disputes arise. Of

fshore sites may offer betting markets not available on licensed Indiana platforms, such as esports and college player props, but they come with higher financial and security risks.

In contrast, Indiana’s licensed sportsbooks guarantee safe transactions, responsible gaming measures, and full legal recourse for players.

Responsible Gaming in Indiana

Indiana takes problem gambling seriously and has implemented several responsible gaming measures to protect players. The state ensures that resources, self-exclusion programs, and educational initiatives are readily available for those who need support. By enforcing strict regulations and working with advocacy groups, Indiana strives to create a safe and responsible betting environment.

Self-Exclusion Programs for Players Seeking Control

For those struggling with gambling-related issues, the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) offers two self-exclusion programs. The Internet Self-Restriction Program (ISRP) allows players to block access to all legal online sportsbooks in Indiana for one year or five years.

Meanwhile, the Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) extends beyond online platforms, banning participants from casinos, retail sportsbooks, and off-track betting (OTB) locationsfor a period of one year, five years, or even life. Importantly, self-exclusion does not automatically expire; individuals must formally request removal once the selected term ends.

Support Services and Hotlines for Problem Gamblers

Indiana provides multiple confidential support services to help individuals manage gambling addiction. The Indiana Problem Gambling Hotline (1-800-994-8448) offers 24/7 assistance via phone or text, while organizations such as Gamblers Anonymous Indiana provide peer-support meetings across the state.

Additionally, the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling works to raise awareness and connect individuals with treatment options, ensuring that those in need have access to professional counseling and recovery programs.

Built-In Responsible Gaming Tools and Restrictions

To encourage safe betting habits, Indiana requires licensed sportsbooks to provide responsible gaming tools. Players can set deposit limits, betting limits, and session time restrictions to maintain control over their wagering activities.

Moreover, state laws prohibit wagering on esports and individual college athlete performances (college player prop bets) to prevent integrity risks and safeguard young athletes.

Educating the Public on Gambling Risks

Raising awareness is a crucial part of Indiana’s responsible gaming initiatives. The IGC collaborates with advocacy groups and gambling operators to distribute educational materials, conduct awareness campaigns, and ensure sportsbooks display problem gambling warnings.

FAQ about Sports Betting in Indiana

Is sports betting legal in Indiana?

Yes, sports betting has been legal in Indiana since May 8, 2019, when Governor Eric Holcomb signed House Bill 1015into law. The first retail sportsbooks opened on September 1, 2019, followed by online sportsbooks on October 3, 2019. Sports betting is fully regulated by the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC).

What is the legal age for sports betting in Indiana?

To place a legal sports bet in Indiana, you must be at least 21 years old. This applies to both in-person and online betting. However, individuals 18 and older can legally wager on horse racing at racetracks or off-track betting (OTB) locations.

Where can I bet on sports in Indiana?

Sports betting is available both in-person and online in Indiana. Bettors can place wagers at licensed casinos, racetracks, and off-track betting locations, such as Horseshoe Indianapolis, Harrah’s Hoosier Park, and Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. Online betting is available through licensed sportsbook apps, including FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, and bet365.

Can I use offshore sportsbooks to bet in Indiana?

While some offshore sportsbooks accept Indiana players, they are not regulated by the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) and do not provide the same legal protections as licensed operators. Using offshore sportsbooks carries risks, including lack of consumer protection, potential payout issues, and security concerns. It is strongly recommended to use state-licensed sportsbooks for a safe and legal betting experience.

What types of bets are allowed in Indiana?

Indiana sportsbooks offer a wide range of betting options, including moneyline bets, spreads, parlays, over/under totals, futures, and live betting. However, college player prop bets and esports betting are not permitted under Indiana law. Bettors can still place wagers on professional and collegiate sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAA games.

How does Indiana regulate responsible gaming?

The Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) oversees responsible gambling initiatives, offering self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, and betting restrictions. Players can enroll in the Internet Self-Restriction Program (ISRP) to block online betting access or join the Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) to ban themselves from casinos and sportsbooks. Assistance is available through the Indiana Problem Gambling Hotline (1-800-994-8448) and organizations like Gamblers Anonymous Indiana.

Do I have to be in Indiana to place an online sports bet?

Yes, to place a bet online, you must be physically located within Indiana’s borders. Licensed sportsbooks use geofencing technology to verify a bettor’s location before allowing wagers. This means you cannot place bets from another state, even if you have an Indiana sportsbook account. However, you can still manage your account, deposit, and withdraw funds from outside the state.