Delaware is an interesting state when it comes to sports betting. Although there are no major professional sports franchises in the state, it is one out of only four states nationwide to have some form of legalized sports betting. Sports betting is a touchy subject, and Delaware residents have more options than most. There are other federal laws that pertain to sports betting to consider as well. This guide, created specifically for Delaware residents, will teach you how to legally and safely enjoy sports betting, including wagering online using licensed offshore sportsbooks that accept customers from Delaware.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Delaware?
Delaware is one of the few states in which residents have access to state licensed sports betting options as well as legally sanctioned offshore sports betting sites. The state is exempted from federal laws that state licensed prohibit brick and mortar sportsbooks. It is not legal to own or operate any type of online sports betting destination within state lines. None of the state or federal laws that are in place make it illegal for DE residents to enjoy online sports betting action as long as the destination at which bets are placed is legally licensed, regulated and located outside of the United States. All of the sportsbooks that we recommend in this guide are legitimate offshore destinations that are operating legally within the industry.
Most Reputable Sportsbooks for Delaware Residents
Not all sportsbooks accept Delaware residents—the ones included in this list do. These offshore betting sites are all legally licensed, have proper certifications and are regulated by their presiding governments. They offer Delaware residents premium betting lines, competitive odds and also other incentives like bonuses, live betting and mobile betting. Our featured online bookmakers have the necessary security protocols and qualities of service to get a spot on our list of reputable sportsbooks for Delaware residents.
| Logo | Site Name | Bonus | Rating | USA | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Betonline Sportsbook | 50% Max $2500 |  |
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Sportsbetting | 75% Max $1000 | |
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Visit Site |
How State and Federal Laws Regulate Sports Betting in Delaware
The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, or PASPA, was passed in 1992 and restricts 46 states from having legalized sports betting. Delaware is one of the four states that is exempt from this law and that allows some form of legalized sports betting. PASPA’s aim was to curtail the legalization of sports betting across the nation.
Delaware’s state law dictates that state based sports betting is legal with the state Lottery. Delaware launched NFL parlay cards through its state Lottery back in the late 70s. It wasn’t very successful at first and was discontinued after one season. However, this Lottery exempted them from PASPA at the time of its passing in 1992 and the parlay cards have come back to the Lottery after a failed attempt to launch Nevada-style sports betting in the state. Residents have to be 21 years old to participate in sports betting through the Lottery.
The Federal Wire Act restricts placing bets online with US-based sportsbooks. The UIGEA monitors banks and other financial institutions and how they process transactions from online gambling. These laws only apply to US-based sportsbooks. The offshore sportsbooks that we’ve recommended for Delaware residents are not in the jurisdiction of US federal and state laws.
FAQs About Betting On Sports
How Are Offshore Sportsbooks Different Than The Sports Betting Offered With The State Lottery?
The Delaware state Lottery only offers parlay bets on NFL games. During the offseason, the parlay betting is obviously suspended. The offshore sportsbooks that we’ve suggested for Delaware residents offer betting lines on all the major leagues (not just NFL), so you’re able to bet year-round. There are also other types of bets available outside of parlay bets. There are straight spread bets, prop bets, future bets and more. Online sportsbooks are able to offer a level of convenience as well as generous bonuses, promotions and incentives that the state licensed betting options are unable to compete with.
What Is A Parlay Bet And How Does It Work?
A parlay is a single wager that links multiple wagers. You’re betting on a series of outcomes and you have to be correct with all of them in order to win the bet. Parlay bets have higher payouts than single bets. For example, you could bet for the Patriots to win their game, the Browns to lose their and the Dolphins to also win. You’d need all three outcomes to come true for you to win the whole bet.
Are Offshore Sportsbooks Legal For Delaware Residentes?
Yes. These sportsbooks have the proper legal licensing and certifications necessary to operate. They are regulated by their own governments and are outside the jurisdiction of US federal and state laws. Delaware has no state laws about participating in online sports betting through offshore sites.
How Do Payouts From Offshore Sportsbooks Work?
If you’ve won a bet, the winnings will be put into your sportsbook account. From there, you can make a withdrawal in several ways. Some possible withdrawal options include checks through the mail (can take up to 7-10 business days), wire transfers and online currencies such as Bitcoin or Litecoin. Be sure to check with the sportsbooks’ Terms of Service regarding their payouts.
Will Delaware Ever Have Nevada-style Sports Betting?
Nevada is the only state in the country allowed to have full-fledged sports betting. In order for Delaware to achieve this, first PASPA would have to be repealed. While Delaware is technically exempted from PASPA, their efforts to increase their sports betting operations were shut down to due to criticism that PASPA only exempts the form of sports betting present at the time of its passing—which in Delaware’s case was NFL parlay bets. Delaware state legislation would likely jump at the chance to increase their state-sponsored sports betting, but PASPA remains at roadblock.
What Sports Can I Bet On At Offshore Sportsbooks Accepting Delaware Residents?
You can bet on games in the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, NCAA and more. There are also bets available on international sports and leagues. You can bet on horse races, stock car races, boxing and MMA fights, tennis, golf, water sports, cricket, darts, and much more. There are lots of options with these online sportsbooks—certainly more options than with the Delaware state Lottery.
Can I Have Accounts With Multiple Sportsbooks?
Yes. As long as they accept Delaware residents, there are no restrictions against having accounts with multiple sportsbooks. By having multiple accounts, you can browse a larger selection of betting lines and wagering options, as well as have access to additional bonuses.