Return to site

Is Sports Gambling Legal In Florida

broken image


  1. Online Gambling Legal Florida
  2. Florida Sports Betting
  3. Is Online Sports Gambling Legal In Florida
  4. Is Sports Gambling Legal In Florida

The info on where, how, & when sports betting is legal The legalization of sports gambling in America is advancing at different rates in different locales. Does your state allow legal sports betting on the internet, retail wagering at the sportsbook counter, or both? Gambling establishments are no strangers to the state of Florida. As it currently stands, Florida allows numerous online gambling and betting options such as horse racing, fantasy sports, and greyhound betting, amongst others. 30, 2018, West Virginia became the fifth state to offer legal and regulated sports betting when the Hollywood Casino - a sportsbook owned by Penn National - opened its doors. No, sports betting in Florida is not legal at this time. Sports betting in Florida Sports betting does not sound close to becoming a reality anytime soon, as there are a number of factors working.

If you are looking for info on the current state of Florida online sports betting, you have come to the right place. Frankly speaking, the situation is somewhat complex. Currently, Florida online sports betting is not available. This means that you can't find Florida online sportsbooks (or online casinos) legally operating in this state. However, things could change in the future, as there has been recent developments as sports betting talks have begun with the Seminoles. Read up our article to learn more about what we can expect.

Contents

Florida Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is a new way to play on major league sports teams and players in Florida. Try your sports knowledge skills by playing DFS, on a variety sports events like NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL PGA, MLS, and more.

RankDaily Fantasy SportsWelcome OfferClaim Offer
1.
Monkey Knife Fight
Visit | Review
100% Match up to $50 - Code: BONUSMAX
T&C's Apply, 21+
2.
DraftKings DFS
Visit | Review
Deposit Bonus up to $500
T&C's Apply, 21+

Most Likely Florida Online Sports Betting Sites

Even though Florida online sports betting scene is at the moment nonexistent, we are hopeful that this changes in the months or years to come. Having in mind that several US states have already legalized online betting, we can expect Florida to follow in their footsteps should it decide to do so. This means that there will potentially be quite a few sports betting websites available.

Take a look at the table below to see which ones we expect to see. All of them feature welcome offers for new customers, so we have no reason to believe things will be different in Florida. Here are the brands we believe are likely to open their doors to FL players once Florida online sports betting becomes legal.

If you want to learn more about these brands that are available in other states with operating sports betting websites, keep on reading. We believe they will offer similar services when Florida online sports betting is regulated.

BetMGM

Betting in florida

When you are searching for top sports betting sites, don't look further than BetMGM. This brand offers lots of online betting opportunities for all those interested in wagering on sports. Like all the major sportsbooks, this brand has a welcome offer for all new customers interested in signing up. Additionally, there are many other promos available on a regular basis for existing players.

At the moment, this online sportsbook is accessible only to players from West Virginia, Michigan, and New Jersey. Not only do registered players have access to online sports betting with this brand, but they can also place their bets in casino and poker rooms, too. As soon as Florida online sports betting becomes regulated, we hope to see BetMGM in this state, as well.

DraftKings

Boasting to be one of the leading sports betting websites in the USA, DraftKings is currently available in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. If Florida regulates online wagering on sports in the future, we surely expect this brand to make an appearance in the Sunshine State, too.

As all reputable top sports betting sites, DraftKings has a welcome offer for new customers in the states it is currently operating in. Additionally, this brand has invested in a top-quality mobile app available for iOS and Android.

A vast selection of betting markets provides countless betting opportunities with this brand. The most popular sports include both American and international favorites, such as professional and college football and basketball, golf, MMA, tennis, etc.

FanDuel

Another brand we expect to see if Florida online sports betting gets regulated is FanDuel. At the moment only players in Michigan, Indiana, New Jersey, and West Virginia can place their wagers online with this sportsbook.

Also, they can redeem various promos available for new and existing players. Signing up with FanDuel is hassle-free and can be finished in a matter of minutes. As soon as you have finished the registration and made your first deposit, you can start placing bets. The variety of available sports is exceptional. So is the quality of customer support and banking options that this brand offers. This, too, is very important for all players.

BetAmerica

When we are talking about top sports betting sites, we have to mention BetAmerica. This brand launched its first online sportsbook in 2019 in NJ. After that, it landed in Pennsylvania, as well.

We needn't mention that BetAmerica has lots of promotions available to its players. This brand also has pretty competitive odds in comparison to some other online bookies on the market. The types of bets you can place are pretty standard. This means that if you are looking for those more exotic ones, you need to look elsewhere.

On the other hand, the BetAmerica app is one of the highest-rated on the market. Downloadable on iOS and Android devices (currently in NJ and PA only), it mimics the desktop site perfectly.

William Hill

One of the most famous online sportsbooks in Europe, William Hill caused quite a commotion when it opened its doors to NJ players. Claiming to be a premier sports betting destination, it seems that William Hill has managed to utilize the experience overseas perfectly and provide US players with a top-quality betting platform.

Not only does this brand have a sign up offer catering to new players, but there are also lots of those for loyal customers, too. The registration is simple, and so is making deposits and withdrawals. There are quite a few betting markets to choose from, both popular and niche ones.

Also, William Hill provides live streaming of certain sports events. This feature is available to all players who meet the required T&Cs for activating it. Additionally, live betting is available for a multitude of events. We surely hope to see them in the Sunshine State once Florida online sports betting becomes legal.

bet365

One of the biggest players in the online sports betting industry is undoubtedly bet365. This brand is one of the most recognizable bookies in Europe. So coming to the US was a major step in its resume.

The bet365 bonus offers are one of the things this brand is most known for. The betting markets and competitive odds, too. Even though the offer in the brand's NJ portfolio is not as extensive as overseas, we expect it to grow in the months to come. As soon as you have registered and redeemed your welcome offer, you can start placing your bets and exploring top-quality betting markets. We have no reason to believe this brand won't feature similar options in FL as soon as Florida online sports betting becomes legal.

Unibet

Another brand famous in Europe, Unibet has proved it means business in the USA. At the moment it's available only to NJ and PA players. However, it's pretty likely to appear in Florida, too, when this state regulates online sports betting.

Unibet's welcome offer typically includes free bets up to a certain amount (T&Cs apply). But this brand is known for changing things up and coming up with many different promotion types. The online casino section is also very popular on the website and is surely worth visiting. Unlike other online bookies, this brand offers a variety of bet types you can place. This is good news, particularly for experienced punters.

Florida Betting Laws

Now, let's take a look at the current state of Florida online sports betting. At the moment, this activity is illegal in the Sunshine State. In order to become regulated and legalized, Florida needs to overcome several obstacles standing in the way.

One step closer to this is the new bill by Republican State Senator Jeff Brandes. If it passes, it will allow offering tickets at self-serving kiosks by Florida Lottery. Additionally, this bill will offer licenses for taking bets on sports via apps and websites. Businesses that manage to obtain these licenses would divide their proceeds with the state.

However, regulating online sports betting in Florida has a long way to go. First, the 2020 legislative session in Florida is only two months long. This means that it's highly unlikely that we can expect the passing of this bill in 2020.

Then, there is an ongoing disagreement regarding whether regulating online sports betting should be done via a statewide referendum. Additionally, this would mean that a new agreement with the Seminole Tribe, which controls the majority of gaming activities in FL, needs to be agreed upon.

Taking all these factors into consideration, it's safe to say that the issue with Florida online sports betting is more than complex. One thing is certain – passing the bill will only be the first step.

States where you can already place an online sports bet today :

Updated on :

Colorado | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Michigan | Nevada | New Jersey | Pennsylvania | Tennessee | Virginia | West Virginia

Florida Online Sports Betting: Events and Betting Markets

As soon as we see the resolution to regulating Florida online sports betting, we will know more details about what we can expect. First and foremost, we will have more details about potential betting markets and events that players could bet on. Right now, we can only make assumptions.

Common Types of Bets

All players from Florida eager to see online sports betting become available can start learning a thing or two about bet types in the meantime. Here are the most common bet types that players in US states, in which online betting is regulated, can place.

  • Moneylines – This is the most popular betting type. It shows you the amount you need to wager to get $100 (or how much you can win if you wager $100).
  • Totals (Over/Under) – You typically choose if the total number of points that both teams are going to score is going to be over or under a listed total number of points.
  • Prop bets – Allow you to wager on events that are going to take place in a game, season, or series. They do not include betting on the outcome though.
  • Spread bets – You place this bet on the team you think is going to win or lose by a certain number of points.

Most Popular Sports to Bet On

The online betting community enjoys placing wagers on a multitude of different sports, both popular and niche ones. Here are the sports and leagues that attract the most attention.

  • NFL
  • NBA
  • NHL
  • MLB
  • Tennis
  • Golf
  • Soccer

Popular Florida Events

There are many popular sports events that attract a lot of attention in Florida. If Florida online sports betting becomes legal, all those interested in online wagering will surely be able to place their bets on them.

  • Super Bowl
  • NCAA March Madness
  • NBA Championships
  • Stanley Cup Finals
  • Masters
  • US Open Tennis
  • Triple Crown

Best Teams to Bet On

Many people like to support their local teams when they are placing their bets. Luckily, Florida has quite a few of them.

  • Orlando Magic
  • Miami Dolphins
  • Miami Heat
  • Florida Panthers
  • Jacksonville Jaguars
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • Tampa Bay Rays

Common Payment Options

Let's take a look at some of the most common payment methods that players have at their disposal when betting online. We expect them to be available at top sports betting sites in Florida when they become legal.

  • Credit/debit Cards
  • PayPal
  • NETeller
  • PayNearMe
  • Prepaid Cards
  • eCheck/ACH

Florida Casinos

Even though there are no online casinos in Florida at the moment, there are quite a few brick-and-mortar ones. We have listed a few of the most famous land-based casinos in Florida below.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

This establishment is owned by the Seminole Tribe that boasts of opening the first brick-and-mortar casino on Indian land in Florida. Casino enthusiasts can visit this casino's 245,000 square feet gaming space. There, they can find more than 5,000 slots, almost 200 table games, and as many as 46 poker tables.

Seminole Casino Coconut Creek

Another establishment run by the Seminole Tribe, this casino is a very popular venue in Florida. Whether you are looking for poker, table games or slots, you'll find all these and much more in Seminole Casino Coconut Creek.

Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino

Hallandale Beach in Florida is home to Gulfstream Park, a popular racetrack and casino. This venue hosts a significant number of high-profile races from December to October. Additionally, the casino offers 20 live-action poker tables, 64 high limit slots, and more than 700 Las Vegas-style slots.

Hialeah Park Racing & Casino

If you are looking for more establishments that combine racing and casino, Hialeah Park is the place for you. As far as horse racing is concerned, you can watch winter Quarter Horse racing meets. And the casino is open year-round with slots, table games, poker, and lots more at your disposal.

Florida Online Sports Betting FAQ

Here are some of the most common questions people have regarding the Florida online sports betting situation.

Are sports betting sites legal in the United States?

Sports betting sites are legal in several US states, but not all of them. When it comes to Florida online sports betting, there are no sites operating legally in this state at the moment.

What do I need to register at an online betting site in Florida?

As Florida online sports betting is still unregulated, you cannot register in this state at the moment. Once this matter resolves and Florida online sportsbooks become legal, we'll include all the info you need on registering.

Online

Is it safe to deposit money at sports betting sites in Florida?

Given that Florida online sports betting is not legal, you cannot make deposits at Florida online sportsbooks at the moment.

Can I set betting limits?

All reputable online bookies allow you to set betting limits as they promote responsible gambling. As soon as Florida online sports betting becomes legal, we'll have more details about this option from legal sportsbooks.

Final Thoughts on Betting in Florida

We are eager to see how the Florida online sports betting matter resolves in the upcoming months. One step in the right direction is for the bill proposed by State Senator Barnes to pass. If this happens, this will facilitate the establishment of Florida online sportsbooks. We'll make sure to keep you updated on any developments.

The Sunshine State boasts amazing beaches, sprawling cities, beautiful weather, and surprisingly to some, Florida offers access to legal sports betting as well. Plenty of teams host their off-season training in Florida because of the great weather year-round.

Florida's major pro sports teams include the Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, Miami Marlins, Orlando Magic, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Tampa Bay Rays, to name a few. With all this sports action, betting on sports in Florida is a popular form of gambling entertainment that bettors ranging from amateur to professional frequently do.

That being said, it is important to address the legal status of sports gambling in Florida so as to avoid any issues or complications. This guide will explore how to safely and legally bet using the sportsbooks we've recommended for Florida residents. In order to be a successful bettor, it's imperative to know how to legally bet in your state.

Is Sports Gambling Legal in Florida?

The short answer is, yes – there is legal sportsbook gambling available to Florida residents. There are no Florida state laws and no US federal laws that make it a crime to bet on sports in the USA as long as the destination at which you placing your wagers is legally licensed and regulated.

This rules out US-based sports betting for Floridians but leaves legitimately licensed sportsbooks operating legally outside of the United States wide open. You can read more about the legal status of Florida sports gambling below where we discuss the specific laws governing sports betting in the United States.

Top Rated Online Sportsbooks For Florida Residents

Here you will see a listing of the Florida friendly online sports betting sites that we consider to be industry leaders. There are of course many more sportsbooks than what we list here, however, we are highly selective about the brands that we recommend, and we only include those destinations that we have personally vetted through a very specific review process.

These sportsbooks are all legally licensed and regulated either individually or through a parent company, offer superb service to their customers, have legitimate bonus offers and utilize sophisticated security protocols that exceed licensing requirements.

LogoSite NameBonusRatingUSAVisit Site
Betonline Sportsbook50% Max $2500Visit Site
Sportsbetting75% Max $1000Visit Site
Bovada Sportsbook50% Max $250Visit Site

US Federal Gambling Laws That Affect Sports Gambling In Florida

In 2018, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection act was repealed by the Supreme Court, allowing each individual state the authority to determine their own will regarding the legalization or prohibition of state-licensed sports betting within their boundaries. Despite this, Florida has yet to take advantage of this newfound freedom and has yet to legalize locally operated sports betting venues.

However, at no time did PASPA or any Florida state law restrictions prohibit Floridians from enjoying offshore sportsbooks such as Bovada or BetOnline. These offshore sportsbooks are operating legaly within the jurisdiction in which they are based, and are used by millions. They operate outside the jurisdiction of the US law and allow players to place wagers without fear of penalty.

There are other laws to consider when talking about sports gambling, such as the Federal Wire Act. Passed in 1961 by President Kennedy, the Federal Wire Act bars people from accepting wagers over the phone or through wire transmission.

In 2011, the Department of Justice established that the Wire Act only applies to US-based sports gambling, leaving offshore gambling free and clear. After PASPA's repeal, the Federal Wire Act was again reinterpreted and places regulatory restrictions on state-regulated sportsbooks accepting wagers across state lines.

The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 provides regulatory oversight on how gambling-related transactions can be processed by the US operated banks and credit card companies.

However, the key takeaway from these laws is that they deal with sports betting within United States borders, something that Florida does not yet allow. So, offshore sportsbooks that accept Florida residents, such as Bovada and BetOnline, are legal and safe to use for sports betting.

Will State Licensed Sports Betting Be Legal In Florida Any Time Soon?

If given the opportunity, Florida may one day try to legalize sports betting since PASPA is no longer in force. There have been discussions on the matter, however Tribal gaming concerns and opposition have slowed the process. Hard rock casino miami jobs.

Popular Sports Teams to Bet On in Florida

Online Gambling Legal Florida

As mentioned earlier, Florida has a lot of sports teams to bet on. While Florida may not boast the most dominant of sports teams in their respective leagues, there are a few teams that look poised to have a successful 2017-2018 season.

The Miami Dolphins reached the playoffs for the first time since 2008 this season under new Head Coach Adam Gase. They ultimately lost out in the first round to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but to their credit were missing starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill, who had helped lead the Dolphins to a 10-5 record up to that point.

The Dolphins are sure to hit the 2017-2018 sense with a chip on their shoulder after missing out on the playoffs. The players seem reinvigorated under Coach Gase and QB Ryan Tannehill will be looking to come back strong from his injury. This team is certainly worth keeping an eye on.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were expected to make the playoffs this year but ended up missing out on a tiebreaker. Regardless, star quarterback Jameis Winston continues to improve in the NFL and the Bucs are looking to be the most dominant NFL team in Florida. If not for a series of injuries throughout the season, the Bucs could have possibly gone to do something unexpected in the playoffs. They'll be another team worth watching in the 2017-2018 season.

While the Jacksonville Jaguars didn't have as memorable of a season as their Florida NFL counterparts, they could obtain a few pieces in the offseason with trades and the Draft that could set them up for success.

As far as the NBA goes, Florida has the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic. While the Heat no longer have the Big 3 (Dwayne Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh) anymore, they are still a contender in the East.

The Orlando Magic are also a team on the rise. These two teams are worth watching on a game-to-game basis. With the high amount of games played in an NBA season, there are plenty of opportunities to cash in.

One thing that makes Florida stand out in sports is in college football. The University of Miami, University of Florida and Florida State University have all been trading off in terms of dominance over the years. As it stands now, FSU is the best in the state.

However, UM is another strong contender in the ACC. The 2017-2018 season will be an interesting one with some star players heading for the Draft and new recruits coming in, so these three teams will definitely be worth watching.

NFL Teams in FL

NBA Teams in FL

MLB Teams in FL

NHL Teams in FL

Popular College Sports Teams in FL

FAQ's About Betting On Sports

How Do I Deposit Funs Into An Offshore Sportsbook Site?

Each of the sportsbook brands we feature include varying options for depositing funds into your account. However, most include credit/debit cards, money orders, money transfers, prepaid cards and even Bitcoin as viable options.

Is It Difficult To Receive My Winnings From An Offshore Sportsbook?

Florida Sports Betting

Checks are usually the most popular method and can typically take up to 7-10 business days to process. Bitcoin is becoming the future of currency because it allows for streamlined deposits and payouts. There are even services that allow you to convert your Bitcoins into cash with ease. Another withdrawal option is a money transfer using Moneygram or Western Union. Some methods have fees associated with them while others do not. Applicable fees will vary between the policies of each sportsbook.

Is Sports Gambling Legal In Florida

When you are searching for top sports betting sites, don't look further than BetMGM. This brand offers lots of online betting opportunities for all those interested in wagering on sports. Like all the major sportsbooks, this brand has a welcome offer for all new customers interested in signing up. Additionally, there are many other promos available on a regular basis for existing players.

At the moment, this online sportsbook is accessible only to players from West Virginia, Michigan, and New Jersey. Not only do registered players have access to online sports betting with this brand, but they can also place their bets in casino and poker rooms, too. As soon as Florida online sports betting becomes regulated, we hope to see BetMGM in this state, as well.

DraftKings

Boasting to be one of the leading sports betting websites in the USA, DraftKings is currently available in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. If Florida regulates online wagering on sports in the future, we surely expect this brand to make an appearance in the Sunshine State, too.

As all reputable top sports betting sites, DraftKings has a welcome offer for new customers in the states it is currently operating in. Additionally, this brand has invested in a top-quality mobile app available for iOS and Android.

A vast selection of betting markets provides countless betting opportunities with this brand. The most popular sports include both American and international favorites, such as professional and college football and basketball, golf, MMA, tennis, etc.

FanDuel

Another brand we expect to see if Florida online sports betting gets regulated is FanDuel. At the moment only players in Michigan, Indiana, New Jersey, and West Virginia can place their wagers online with this sportsbook.

Also, they can redeem various promos available for new and existing players. Signing up with FanDuel is hassle-free and can be finished in a matter of minutes. As soon as you have finished the registration and made your first deposit, you can start placing bets. The variety of available sports is exceptional. So is the quality of customer support and banking options that this brand offers. This, too, is very important for all players.

BetAmerica

When we are talking about top sports betting sites, we have to mention BetAmerica. This brand launched its first online sportsbook in 2019 in NJ. After that, it landed in Pennsylvania, as well.

We needn't mention that BetAmerica has lots of promotions available to its players. This brand also has pretty competitive odds in comparison to some other online bookies on the market. The types of bets you can place are pretty standard. This means that if you are looking for those more exotic ones, you need to look elsewhere.

On the other hand, the BetAmerica app is one of the highest-rated on the market. Downloadable on iOS and Android devices (currently in NJ and PA only), it mimics the desktop site perfectly.

William Hill

One of the most famous online sportsbooks in Europe, William Hill caused quite a commotion when it opened its doors to NJ players. Claiming to be a premier sports betting destination, it seems that William Hill has managed to utilize the experience overseas perfectly and provide US players with a top-quality betting platform.

Not only does this brand have a sign up offer catering to new players, but there are also lots of those for loyal customers, too. The registration is simple, and so is making deposits and withdrawals. There are quite a few betting markets to choose from, both popular and niche ones.

Also, William Hill provides live streaming of certain sports events. This feature is available to all players who meet the required T&Cs for activating it. Additionally, live betting is available for a multitude of events. We surely hope to see them in the Sunshine State once Florida online sports betting becomes legal.

bet365

One of the biggest players in the online sports betting industry is undoubtedly bet365. This brand is one of the most recognizable bookies in Europe. So coming to the US was a major step in its resume.

The bet365 bonus offers are one of the things this brand is most known for. The betting markets and competitive odds, too. Even though the offer in the brand's NJ portfolio is not as extensive as overseas, we expect it to grow in the months to come. As soon as you have registered and redeemed your welcome offer, you can start placing your bets and exploring top-quality betting markets. We have no reason to believe this brand won't feature similar options in FL as soon as Florida online sports betting becomes legal.

Unibet

Another brand famous in Europe, Unibet has proved it means business in the USA. At the moment it's available only to NJ and PA players. However, it's pretty likely to appear in Florida, too, when this state regulates online sports betting.

Unibet's welcome offer typically includes free bets up to a certain amount (T&Cs apply). But this brand is known for changing things up and coming up with many different promotion types. The online casino section is also very popular on the website and is surely worth visiting. Unlike other online bookies, this brand offers a variety of bet types you can place. This is good news, particularly for experienced punters.

Florida Betting Laws

Now, let's take a look at the current state of Florida online sports betting. At the moment, this activity is illegal in the Sunshine State. In order to become regulated and legalized, Florida needs to overcome several obstacles standing in the way.

One step closer to this is the new bill by Republican State Senator Jeff Brandes. If it passes, it will allow offering tickets at self-serving kiosks by Florida Lottery. Additionally, this bill will offer licenses for taking bets on sports via apps and websites. Businesses that manage to obtain these licenses would divide their proceeds with the state.

However, regulating online sports betting in Florida has a long way to go. First, the 2020 legislative session in Florida is only two months long. This means that it's highly unlikely that we can expect the passing of this bill in 2020.

Then, there is an ongoing disagreement regarding whether regulating online sports betting should be done via a statewide referendum. Additionally, this would mean that a new agreement with the Seminole Tribe, which controls the majority of gaming activities in FL, needs to be agreed upon.

Taking all these factors into consideration, it's safe to say that the issue with Florida online sports betting is more than complex. One thing is certain – passing the bill will only be the first step.

States where you can already place an online sports bet today :

Updated on :

Colorado | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Michigan | Nevada | New Jersey | Pennsylvania | Tennessee | Virginia | West Virginia

Florida Online Sports Betting: Events and Betting Markets

As soon as we see the resolution to regulating Florida online sports betting, we will know more details about what we can expect. First and foremost, we will have more details about potential betting markets and events that players could bet on. Right now, we can only make assumptions.

Common Types of Bets

All players from Florida eager to see online sports betting become available can start learning a thing or two about bet types in the meantime. Here are the most common bet types that players in US states, in which online betting is regulated, can place.

  • Moneylines – This is the most popular betting type. It shows you the amount you need to wager to get $100 (or how much you can win if you wager $100).
  • Totals (Over/Under) – You typically choose if the total number of points that both teams are going to score is going to be over or under a listed total number of points.
  • Prop bets – Allow you to wager on events that are going to take place in a game, season, or series. They do not include betting on the outcome though.
  • Spread bets – You place this bet on the team you think is going to win or lose by a certain number of points.

Most Popular Sports to Bet On

The online betting community enjoys placing wagers on a multitude of different sports, both popular and niche ones. Here are the sports and leagues that attract the most attention.

  • NFL
  • NBA
  • NHL
  • MLB
  • Tennis
  • Golf
  • Soccer

Popular Florida Events

There are many popular sports events that attract a lot of attention in Florida. If Florida online sports betting becomes legal, all those interested in online wagering will surely be able to place their bets on them.

  • Super Bowl
  • NCAA March Madness
  • NBA Championships
  • Stanley Cup Finals
  • Masters
  • US Open Tennis
  • Triple Crown

Best Teams to Bet On

Many people like to support their local teams when they are placing their bets. Luckily, Florida has quite a few of them.

  • Orlando Magic
  • Miami Dolphins
  • Miami Heat
  • Florida Panthers
  • Jacksonville Jaguars
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • Tampa Bay Rays

Common Payment Options

Let's take a look at some of the most common payment methods that players have at their disposal when betting online. We expect them to be available at top sports betting sites in Florida when they become legal.

  • Credit/debit Cards
  • PayPal
  • NETeller
  • PayNearMe
  • Prepaid Cards
  • eCheck/ACH

Florida Casinos

Even though there are no online casinos in Florida at the moment, there are quite a few brick-and-mortar ones. We have listed a few of the most famous land-based casinos in Florida below.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

This establishment is owned by the Seminole Tribe that boasts of opening the first brick-and-mortar casino on Indian land in Florida. Casino enthusiasts can visit this casino's 245,000 square feet gaming space. There, they can find more than 5,000 slots, almost 200 table games, and as many as 46 poker tables.

Seminole Casino Coconut Creek

Another establishment run by the Seminole Tribe, this casino is a very popular venue in Florida. Whether you are looking for poker, table games or slots, you'll find all these and much more in Seminole Casino Coconut Creek.

Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino

Hallandale Beach in Florida is home to Gulfstream Park, a popular racetrack and casino. This venue hosts a significant number of high-profile races from December to October. Additionally, the casino offers 20 live-action poker tables, 64 high limit slots, and more than 700 Las Vegas-style slots.

Hialeah Park Racing & Casino

If you are looking for more establishments that combine racing and casino, Hialeah Park is the place for you. As far as horse racing is concerned, you can watch winter Quarter Horse racing meets. And the casino is open year-round with slots, table games, poker, and lots more at your disposal.

Florida Online Sports Betting FAQ

Here are some of the most common questions people have regarding the Florida online sports betting situation.

Are sports betting sites legal in the United States?

Sports betting sites are legal in several US states, but not all of them. When it comes to Florida online sports betting, there are no sites operating legally in this state at the moment.

What do I need to register at an online betting site in Florida?

As Florida online sports betting is still unregulated, you cannot register in this state at the moment. Once this matter resolves and Florida online sportsbooks become legal, we'll include all the info you need on registering.

Is it safe to deposit money at sports betting sites in Florida?

Given that Florida online sports betting is not legal, you cannot make deposits at Florida online sportsbooks at the moment.

Can I set betting limits?

All reputable online bookies allow you to set betting limits as they promote responsible gambling. As soon as Florida online sports betting becomes legal, we'll have more details about this option from legal sportsbooks.

Final Thoughts on Betting in Florida

We are eager to see how the Florida online sports betting matter resolves in the upcoming months. One step in the right direction is for the bill proposed by State Senator Barnes to pass. If this happens, this will facilitate the establishment of Florida online sportsbooks. We'll make sure to keep you updated on any developments.

The Sunshine State boasts amazing beaches, sprawling cities, beautiful weather, and surprisingly to some, Florida offers access to legal sports betting as well. Plenty of teams host their off-season training in Florida because of the great weather year-round.

Florida's major pro sports teams include the Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, Miami Marlins, Orlando Magic, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Tampa Bay Rays, to name a few. With all this sports action, betting on sports in Florida is a popular form of gambling entertainment that bettors ranging from amateur to professional frequently do.

That being said, it is important to address the legal status of sports gambling in Florida so as to avoid any issues or complications. This guide will explore how to safely and legally bet using the sportsbooks we've recommended for Florida residents. In order to be a successful bettor, it's imperative to know how to legally bet in your state.

Is Sports Gambling Legal in Florida?

The short answer is, yes – there is legal sportsbook gambling available to Florida residents. There are no Florida state laws and no US federal laws that make it a crime to bet on sports in the USA as long as the destination at which you placing your wagers is legally licensed and regulated.

This rules out US-based sports betting for Floridians but leaves legitimately licensed sportsbooks operating legally outside of the United States wide open. You can read more about the legal status of Florida sports gambling below where we discuss the specific laws governing sports betting in the United States.

Top Rated Online Sportsbooks For Florida Residents

Here you will see a listing of the Florida friendly online sports betting sites that we consider to be industry leaders. There are of course many more sportsbooks than what we list here, however, we are highly selective about the brands that we recommend, and we only include those destinations that we have personally vetted through a very specific review process.

These sportsbooks are all legally licensed and regulated either individually or through a parent company, offer superb service to their customers, have legitimate bonus offers and utilize sophisticated security protocols that exceed licensing requirements.

LogoSite NameBonusRatingUSAVisit Site
Betonline Sportsbook50% Max $2500Visit Site
Sportsbetting75% Max $1000Visit Site
Bovada Sportsbook50% Max $250Visit Site

US Federal Gambling Laws That Affect Sports Gambling In Florida

In 2018, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection act was repealed by the Supreme Court, allowing each individual state the authority to determine their own will regarding the legalization or prohibition of state-licensed sports betting within their boundaries. Despite this, Florida has yet to take advantage of this newfound freedom and has yet to legalize locally operated sports betting venues.

However, at no time did PASPA or any Florida state law restrictions prohibit Floridians from enjoying offshore sportsbooks such as Bovada or BetOnline. These offshore sportsbooks are operating legaly within the jurisdiction in which they are based, and are used by millions. They operate outside the jurisdiction of the US law and allow players to place wagers without fear of penalty.

There are other laws to consider when talking about sports gambling, such as the Federal Wire Act. Passed in 1961 by President Kennedy, the Federal Wire Act bars people from accepting wagers over the phone or through wire transmission.

In 2011, the Department of Justice established that the Wire Act only applies to US-based sports gambling, leaving offshore gambling free and clear. After PASPA's repeal, the Federal Wire Act was again reinterpreted and places regulatory restrictions on state-regulated sportsbooks accepting wagers across state lines.

The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 provides regulatory oversight on how gambling-related transactions can be processed by the US operated banks and credit card companies.

However, the key takeaway from these laws is that they deal with sports betting within United States borders, something that Florida does not yet allow. So, offshore sportsbooks that accept Florida residents, such as Bovada and BetOnline, are legal and safe to use for sports betting.

Will State Licensed Sports Betting Be Legal In Florida Any Time Soon?

If given the opportunity, Florida may one day try to legalize sports betting since PASPA is no longer in force. There have been discussions on the matter, however Tribal gaming concerns and opposition have slowed the process. Hard rock casino miami jobs.

Popular Sports Teams to Bet On in Florida

Online Gambling Legal Florida

As mentioned earlier, Florida has a lot of sports teams to bet on. While Florida may not boast the most dominant of sports teams in their respective leagues, there are a few teams that look poised to have a successful 2017-2018 season.

The Miami Dolphins reached the playoffs for the first time since 2008 this season under new Head Coach Adam Gase. They ultimately lost out in the first round to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but to their credit were missing starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill, who had helped lead the Dolphins to a 10-5 record up to that point.

The Dolphins are sure to hit the 2017-2018 sense with a chip on their shoulder after missing out on the playoffs. The players seem reinvigorated under Coach Gase and QB Ryan Tannehill will be looking to come back strong from his injury. This team is certainly worth keeping an eye on.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were expected to make the playoffs this year but ended up missing out on a tiebreaker. Regardless, star quarterback Jameis Winston continues to improve in the NFL and the Bucs are looking to be the most dominant NFL team in Florida. If not for a series of injuries throughout the season, the Bucs could have possibly gone to do something unexpected in the playoffs. They'll be another team worth watching in the 2017-2018 season.

While the Jacksonville Jaguars didn't have as memorable of a season as their Florida NFL counterparts, they could obtain a few pieces in the offseason with trades and the Draft that could set them up for success.

As far as the NBA goes, Florida has the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic. While the Heat no longer have the Big 3 (Dwayne Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh) anymore, they are still a contender in the East.

The Orlando Magic are also a team on the rise. These two teams are worth watching on a game-to-game basis. With the high amount of games played in an NBA season, there are plenty of opportunities to cash in.

One thing that makes Florida stand out in sports is in college football. The University of Miami, University of Florida and Florida State University have all been trading off in terms of dominance over the years. As it stands now, FSU is the best in the state.

However, UM is another strong contender in the ACC. The 2017-2018 season will be an interesting one with some star players heading for the Draft and new recruits coming in, so these three teams will definitely be worth watching.

NFL Teams in FL

NBA Teams in FL

MLB Teams in FL

NHL Teams in FL

Popular College Sports Teams in FL

FAQ's About Betting On Sports

How Do I Deposit Funs Into An Offshore Sportsbook Site?

Each of the sportsbook brands we feature include varying options for depositing funds into your account. However, most include credit/debit cards, money orders, money transfers, prepaid cards and even Bitcoin as viable options.

Is It Difficult To Receive My Winnings From An Offshore Sportsbook?

Florida Sports Betting

Checks are usually the most popular method and can typically take up to 7-10 business days to process. Bitcoin is becoming the future of currency because it allows for streamlined deposits and payouts. There are even services that allow you to convert your Bitcoins into cash with ease. Another withdrawal option is a money transfer using Moneygram or Western Union. Some methods have fees associated with them while others do not. Applicable fees will vary between the policies of each sportsbook.

Is It Safe For Florida Residents To Place Bets At Offshore Sportsbooks?

Without a doubt. We only recommend sites that have been around for about ten years and have been vetted by the players that use them and respected industry professionals. These sites all offer fair and honest services and payouts and use secure servers in order to keep your information safe online. As successful as these sites are, they take their customer service very seriously and would not jeopardize that success with substandard customer care or unreliable security.

Has Any Bettor From Florida Ever Been Arrested for Gambling on Sports?

The only way you can get arrested in the state of Florida for gambling on sports is by doing so through an illegal bookie. That being said, the bookie faces harsher penalties than the bettor, however it's best to use safe and secure offshore betting sites in order to avoid these issues.

Do These Sites Offer Any Type Of New Customer Perks or Bonuses?

Yes! Most, if not all, of the reputable offshore betting sites offer both introductory bonuses and bonuses for loyal users. These bonuses make for bigger earnings and higher customer satisfaction. In-house sportsbooks like the ones in Vegas can't match that! 11.5 gram clay poker chips.

Do I Have To Pay Taxes On My Winnings At FL Friendly Offshore Sportsbooks?

As profits from sports betting are considered taxable income, it's important that you pay taxes on them according to your state's laws. It would be a shame to not enjoy your winnings because you're in prison for tax evasion. Be sure to check with a local tax specialist on how you should go about reporting your earnings.

Can I Place Bets From My Mobile Device?

Yes, All of the offshore sportsbooks that we recommend utilize a web friendly, mobile optimized app so you can handle your sports betting on the go. The app has all the same services of the web version as well as the same sophisticated security protocols. You can place bets, manage your account and check the status of the events you have bet on, all from your smartphone or tablet.

Is Online Sports Gambling Legal In Florida

Are There Any Sports Teams in Florida That Have A Shot At Winning A National Title in 2017/2018?

Is Sports Gambling Legal In Florida

Realistically, no. However, there are some promising teams on the rise that could pull something incredible off. The best odds at a Florida championship come through either the NFL or college football, so whether or not you place a futures bet on your team winning it all depends on your confidence in your team. There are no clear frontrunners for Florida at the time of this writing.





broken image