- Is Sports Betting Legal in Texas?
- Top Online Sportsbooks in Texas
- Best Texas Betting Sites
- Why DraftKings is the Best Sportsbook in Texas
- Texas Betting Sites With the Best Promotions
- Top Texas Sportsbooks by Sport
- How To Find the Best Betting Sites in Texas
- How Oddspedia Sportsbook Ratings Work
- How To Create a Betting Account in Texas
- US Legal State Betting
- Best Texas Betting Sites FAQs
Is Sports Betting Legal in Texas?
Sadly, sports betting is not yet legal in Texas despite previous efforts for legalization. The last bill to legalize sports betting was introduced in 2021 and failed to be passed.
Yet, the good news for legal sports betting is that a new bill has been introduced as of February 6, 2023, with the support of Texas professional sports teams. A statewide vote is slated to occur in November, assuming the bill is approved.
While a traditionally conservative state, Texas has become more and more liberal over the years, meaning the likelihood is higher that this bill will pass now than ever before.
The backing of teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, and Dallas Mavericks may be a significant positive factor. On top of that, the Houston Astros have already entered into a partnership with BetMGM. This is not to mention favorable poll results among Texans, regardless of political affiliation.
Take a look at a timeline of Texas sports betting developments to help understand where we are.
Sports Betting in Texas: The Legal Situation
- November 2020: In November 2020, a team of lobbyists is hired by Las Vegas Sands Corporation to make an effort to open the first Texas casinos. This would likely usher in legal retail sports betting in the state.
- January - March 2021: In January 2021, Representative Harold Dutton introduces Bill 1121 to legalize sports betting. From there, multiple other related bills are introduced, such as Bill 2070 in February and House Joint Resolution 133 in March.
- May 2021: All of the bills introduced in 2021 are shot down prior to a vote or hearing. This is despite considerable effort by Las Vegas Sands Corporation to drum up positive sentiment.
- February 2023: Four online sports betting bills (SB 715, SJR 39, HB 1942, HJR 102) are introduced by Senator Lois Kolkhorst and Representative Jeff Leach. These receive the backing of the Texas Sports Betting Alliance and introduce a strong chance for the legalization of sports betting in the Fall of 2023.
Texas Sports Betting Laws
Currently, Texas sports betting is entirely illegal in any form, retail or online. Bills must pass through the House and Senate and be voted upon in 2023 for sports betting to be legalized.
Offshore sportsbooks are available to Texans yet are not legal or regulated in the U.S. The best legal option for gambling on sports online in Texas is daily fantasy sports (DFS) through sites like DraftKings and FanDuel.
We may also see retail casinos with sportsbooks based on some recent rumblings in the Texas sports gambling landscape. This is in addition to sportsbooks partnering with major sports franchises.
It appears that Texas may be poised to become one of the most booming and lucrative sports betting states in the nation. Let's take a look at some relevant recent news.
Texas Sports Betting Updates
- March 2023: In the same month that seven Texas schools compete in March Madness, new Texas sports betting bills (SB 715, SJR 39, HB 1942, HJR 102) are introduced. If successful, these bills may be voted upon in November of 2023.
- January - February 2023: More Texas professional sports support becomes apparent as Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, comes out in favor of Texas legal sports betting. This is in addition to the Texas Rangers, San Antonio Spurs, and other teams expressing their backing.
- December - January 2022: Mark Cuban, the owner of the Dallas Mavericks, expresses interest in partnering with a casino to offer an arena featuring sports betting. In contrast, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick states that he does not anticipate movement in the legal Texas sports betting situation in 2023.
Top Online Sportsbooks in Texas
We have established that there are no legal online sportsbooks in Texas. Still, there is significant optimism that the legalization of sports betting will occur in late 2023 based on multiple bills that have been introduced. Based on all signs, the top online sportsbooks in the nation will be permitted to operate in Texas, assuming legalization occurs.
For this reason, we've done preliminary research to establish the speculative top Texas sportsbooks. This way, Texans will be ready to go once legalization (hopefully) takes place late in 2023 and significant sportsbooks launch in the state.
We've analyzed a wide variety of factors to determine the best Texas sportsbooks. This includes odds, sports and bet types, bonuses, promos, proprietary benefits, and the quality of the desktop and Texas betting apps experiences.
On top of all that, we have further considered banking choices, customer support, loyalty programs, and other essential elements associated with the best sportsbooks. Without further ado, let's take a look at the best Texas betting sites that we hope to see available in the state shortly.
Best Texas Betting Sites
Let's now take a closer look at the best potential betting sites when sports betting becomes legal in Texas. You'll notice that the usual brands like BetMGM, Caesars, and FanDuel will be on this list, but there are a few others to consider as well.
DraftKings
DraftKings is a brand with a long reputation in the DFS space and is popular with many Texans since DFS is currently the only legal sports gambling option in the state. For an easy transition from DFS to sports betting, DraftKings Texas is a clear choice, with only FanDuel as a close second.
Not only does DraftKings offer the most comprehensive selection of sports and bet types, but the odds are quite competitive. This is in addition to excellent customer service and the top-notch Dynasty Rewards VIP program. All things considered, DraftKings is our top choice among the best TX betting sites.
Read: DraftKings review
Caesars
If you respect a long track record in the gambling industry, Caesars Texas may be the option for you. Caesars Entertainment has been a top name in gambling and hospitality for many years prior to partnering with respected sportsbook operator William Hill for its online sports betting offering.
While many factors make Caesars a top option, we particularly appreciate its mobile bet slip. It is straightforward to understand compared to many other competing sites. We also think the Caesars rewards program stands out, especially if you are loyal to Caesars Entertainment's line of properties.
Read: Caesars review
BetMGM
MGM Resorts International shares a similar reputation in the brick-and-mortar gambling and hospitality industry as Caesars.
Whether you are looking at sports and bet types, customer service, or bonuses and promotions, BetMGM Texas is about as good as it gets among the soon-to-be legal betting sites in Texas. Plus, those who frequent MGM Resorts properties will love the loyalty program.
Read: BetMGM review
FanDuel
Among Texans, FanDuel is likely to be a popular option since it has been offering a top-notch DFS product in the state for years. We have noted that the FanDuel Sportsbook Texas product closely mirrors the DFS offering in many ways.
This makes it a top choice among the best Texas betting sites for newer bettors, as FanDuel prides itself on offering a user-friendly product. Still, even the most grizzled of gambling veterans will find many respectable features at FanDuel Sportsbook.
Read: FanDuel review
BetRivers
USA players are accepted
While BetRivers Texas may not have quite the reputation of some of the other top Texas sportsbooks we have reviewed, it is an up-and-coming brand making big waves in the U.S. legal sports betting waters.
Sports betting options with BetRivers are excellent, as are ongoing promotions and bonus offers. We've had no qualms with customer service and have found the mobile app and desktop site to be among the easiest to navigate in the industry.
Read: BetRivers review
- Avg. Payout: 94.47%
- Payout speed: 1-5 days
- Sign Up Bonus: Up to a $500 Second-chance Bet
How To Sign Up With A Sportsbook
Everything You Need To Know In 5 Easy Steps!
Use the "Register Here" button in the header of this Oddspedia Operator Review Page to go to the bookmaker's site.
Locate the "Create Account/Sign Up/Register” button on the home page and click on it.
Complete the registration form by inputting valid information such as Name, DOB, E-mail etc.*It is critical to use valid info for verification procedures for the account setup and withdrawing funds at a later date
Wait for the email validation and take the designated action.
Return to the site and log in with the username and password you stated in the sign-up process. You are now ready to start your betting journey.
Why DraftKings is the Best Sportsbook in Texas
It is not easy to crown one of the top Texas sportsbooks as the best, considering that all of our highest-ranked options have a lot going for them. Still, DraftKings finds itself at the top of the heap based on various factors. DraftKings has honed its online sports gambling product through DFS to a degree that has given it a leg up in the online sportsbook arena.
We particularly appreciate the ongoing bonuses and promotions, DraftKings Dynasty rewards program, and customer service. This includes the ability to have your own dedicated VIP customer support rep based on how much you bet with DraftKings. If you want to do business with a brand that cares, you will not find a more dedicated team than the one found at DraftKings.
Texas Betting Sites With the Best Promotions
Once again, these sites are not currently active in Texas. Still, we anticipate similar opportunities upon their prospective launches. Let's take a look at what they are currently offering.
DraftKings: Make a first bet of at least $5 and receive a $200 in bonus bets as a new user in legal states.
Caesars: A second-chance bet up to $1,000 if your initial wager loses.
BetMGM: New BetMGM sign-ups can receive a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets welcome offer.
FanDuel: New users in active states currently receive a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets reward.
BetRivers: BetRivers offers a second-chance bet up to $500 if your initial wager loses.
Top Texas Sportsbooks by Sport
If and when sports betting is legalized in Texas, residents of the state will want to know the best TX sportsbooks based on their individual interests. Different sportsbooks specialize in certain sports, although all of our top recommendations have excellent offerings for all popular US leagues. Let's take a look at the best options per sport.
Best Texas Sportsbooks for NFL
The NFL is king in the US, and no state loves football more than Texas. DraftKings is the best option for football betting and is sure to delight loyal fans of the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans.
You won't find a more significant variety of betting choices for football at any other online sportsbook in comparison to DraftKings, and odds are quite lucrative. Please check out our NFL betting page for more information on the best sportsbooks for football betting.
Best Texas Sportsbooks for NBA
Luka Dončić and the Dallas Mavericks are hugely popular in Texas, as are the Houston Rockets. Caesars offers the best in NBA betting options whether you are looking at odds, bet types available, or the number of props you can bet on in terms of the NBA.
Still, all of our top-recommended sportsbooks have great options for betting on the NBA. We recommend looking at our NBA betting page for all the goods on basketball wagering.
Best Texas Sportsbooks for MLB
The Houston Astros is a favorite among many MLB fans, making the MLB hugely popular in Texas. This is in addition to the Texas Rangers, albeit a less successful franchise in recent years.
BetMGM offers the finest MLB betting options regardless of what you are looking for.
Best Texas Sportsbooks for NHL
You don't necessarily think of hockey when you think of the Lone Star State, but the Dallas Stars are consistently competitive. For hockey, we highly recommend FanDuel Sportsbook for its moneyline, puckline (the equivalent of a point spread in hockey), and other excellent betting options.
Nonetheless, it is a good idea to check out our NHL betting page. There we have a lot of information on the best sites for hockey betting and everything you need to know about wagering on the sport in general.
How To Find the Best Betting Sites in Texas
Of course, our goal here is to provide you with a list of the best betting sites. Since we have reviewed all of the top options in detail, our best recommendation is to choose from our list once these sites are active in Texas.
Still, one should take into account their own preferences. Perhaps you are particularly keen on Texas sportsbook promos and bonuses, or maybe you are seeking out the best odds. Sports and bet types offered may be your essential concern. Depending on precisely what you are looking for, any of the best Texas betting sites we've reviewed here may suit your needs best.
How Oddspedia Sportsbook Ratings Work
You might wonder exactly how we come to our conclusions. For one, we extensively analyze the number of sports and bet types available. All of our top sportsbook options offer the most extensive selections for both.
We particularly factor in more advanced betting choices like multi-leg bets, props, futures, and more since any legitimate sportsbook will offer a reasonable selection of standard wagering options. We also ensure that any sportsbook we recommend offers competitive odds and releases lines in a timely manner.
What Makes a Good Sportsbook?
Aside from offering a great selection of sports and bet types with excellent odds and timely line release, customer service is crucial. This is in addition to rewards programs, banking, bonuses, and promotions.
We consider all of this when researching which sportsbooks are the best. That is how we have reached this list of the best Texas betting sites.
Why Should You Avoid Certain Sportsbooks?
First, you must ensure that a sportsbook is legal and regulated in the US. Offshore sportsbooks are not and thus come with more risk. Plus, you might want to take a look at some more specific factors, such as:
- Have there been any reported safety and security concerns?
- Are user reviews regarding customer service positive?
- Are payouts delivered in a timely and reliable manner?
- How many terms and conditions apply to promotions. Is advertising deceptive?
- Do customers get banned or limited with little explanation or reason?
How To Create a Betting Account in Texas
Currently, it is not possible to establish a betting account in Texas with any of the top Texas sportsbooks we have suggested, as sports betting is not yet legal in the state. However, upon legalization, individuals with a valid Social Security number who are over 21 (most likely, although some states have set the age at 18) will likely be eligible to engage in betting activities in Texas. Here we will take a look at how you would sign up for any of our best TX sportsbooks when the time comes.
- Step one is to choose a sportsbook from our list of the top options and navigate to its welcome page using one of the links in our guide. Then, provide personal details like your name, phone number, address, and date of birth, and create your username and password. You may also have the opportunity to enter a promo code. Be sure to do this to claim any welcome bonuses.
- Most sportsbooks will send you a verification email with a link to click to verify your account. You will need to do this to complete your registration.
- You are able to bet immediately at most sportsbooks upon registering and verifying your account. You can make a deposit, enter any relevant promo codes (assuming you have not already done so during the sign-up process), and start wagering.
- Now you can start placing bets by navigating to a sport and game of your choosing and making a selection. Be sure to consider the sign-up bonus offered, as it may be contingent on your initial wager.
- If you want to withdraw funds, you will most likely need to provide additional verification information like a copy of your ID and/or proof of your address. Be sure to provide this information so that your withdrawal process will not be slowed down. You will be prompted for these details prior to attempting to withdraw funds.
US Legal State Betting
| State | Online | Retail |
| Arizona Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Arkansas Sportsbooks | No | Yes |
| Colorado Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Connecticut Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Delaware Sportsbooks | No | Yes |
| Florida Sportsbooks | No | No |
| Illinois Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Indiana Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Iowa Sports Betting | Yes | Yes |
| Kentucky Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Louisiana Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Maryland Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Massachusetts Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Michigan Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Mississippi Sportsbooks | No | Yes |
| Montana Sportsbooks | On-Premises Only | Yes |
| Nevada Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| New Hampshire Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| New Jersey Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| New Mexico Sportsbooks | No | Yes |
| New York Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| North Carolina Sportsbooks | No | Yes |
| Ohio Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Oregon Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Pennsylvania Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Rhode Island Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Texas Sportsbooks | No | No |
| Vermont Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Virginia Sportsbooks | No | No |
| West Virginia Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Washington, DC Sportsbooks | Yes | Yes |
| Wisconsin Sportsbooks | No | No |
| Wyoming Sportsbooks | Yes | No |
