North Carolina Sports Betting: Best NC Sportsbooks & Bonus Offers

North Carolina has become a hotbed for online sports betting since the passage of HB 347 on June 14, 2023. Online sports betting officially began on March 11, 2024, bringing a new wave of excitement to North Carolina.

In this piece, I’m going to discuss the top betting sites, bonus offers, and everything you need to know to get started with betting in North Carolina.

North Carolina Sports Betting Breakdown

It was a journey to legalize online sports betting in North Carolina that culminated in June 2023 with House Bill 347.

This legislation paved the way for online sports betting operators to apply for licenses and officially launch on March 11, 2024. The North Carolina Lottery Commission plays a crucial role in regulating sports betting and issuing licenses.

The legislative process involved multiple stakeholders, including local lawmakers, the North Carolina Lottery Commission, and various sports betting operators. This collaborative effort ensures all legal sports betting operators adhere to strict guidelines.

There’s now have a plethora of options to choose from, making it an exciting time for North Carolina sports bettors.

Best North Carolina Sports Betting Sites Ranked

I’ve meticulously ranked the best sports betting sites currently available in North Carolina. There’s a total of 12 licenses available, enhancing the betting options for North Carolina sports bettors.

These rankings considers various factors, including user experience, welcome bonuses, competitive odds, and customer service.

Each of these platforms offers unique features and promotions, catering to different types of bettors. Whether you’re looking for the best odds, generous bonuses, or a user-friendly mobile app, all of these sportsbooks have you covered.

Here’s a closer look at each of these top North Carolina betting sites, breaking down their standout features.

1. bet365 Sportsbook North Carolina

bet365 Sportsbook North Carolina stands out for its extensive sports coverage and innovative features like live streaming and a dedicated Live Golf Tracker.

New users can choose between two attractive welcome offers: Get a First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets or Bet $5+, Get $200 in Bonus Bets, each with the bet365 NC bonus code ON3BONUS.

bet365 Sportsbook North Carolina, which has also partnered with the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, boasts high ratings on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Overall, bet365 North Carolina remains a top choice for its standout features and competitive odds.

2. Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina

Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina offers a unique blend of sports merchandise and betting, making it an appealing choice for sports fans. Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina is partnered with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and comes in as one of my top choices for NC bettors.

New users can Bet and Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets! The platform also features an easy to use app and a rewards program where bettors earn FanCash on their wagers.

However, some users might find the range of betting markets limited compared to other platforms.

3. BetMGM Sportsbook North Carolina

BetMGM Sportsbook North Carolina is a popular choice because of its extensive sports betting options and daily promotions.

New users can Get a 20% Deposit Match up to $1,500 in Sports Bonus with the bonus code ON1500. Another welcome offer up for grabs allows users to Get up to $1,500 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn’t Win via the bonus code ON3BONUS.

Additionally, there’s a Bet $10, Get $200 in Bonus Bets offer through the promo code ON200.

4. DraftKings Sportsbook North Carolina

DraftKings Sportsbook North Carolina provides innovative betting options as well as a strong presence in the daily fantasy sports market.

New users can take advantage of the site’s welcome offer to Bet $5, Get $250 in Bonus Bets + a King of the Court Boost!

The platform also features frequent promotional boosts and an attractive rewards program called Dynasty Rewards.

All in all, DraftKings Sportsbook North Carolina is an excellent choice because of its wide range of betting markets and existing user offerings.

5. Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina

Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina offers competitive odds and one of the best loyalty programs in the industry. The Caesars Rewards Program allows users to earn points through betting, redeemable for various perks like hotel stays and exclusive events.

New users can Get up to $1,000 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn’t Win with the promo code ON31000.

However, withdrawal times can vary, and some promotions are short-lived. Despite these minor issues, Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina remains a top choice for its loyalty rewards and competitive odds.

6. Underdog Sports North Carolina

Underdog Sports North Carolina marked the first state for the platform. It’s gaining traction for offering unique betting options. The platform focuses on casual bettors and integrates features from its daily fantasy sports platform.

Customer support is limited to email, and the bonus offers are smaller compared to other sportsbooks. Yet, Underdog Sports remains a solid choice for those looking for a straightforward betting platform.

Retail Sportsbooks in North Carolina

North Carolina has three tribal casinos that operate retail sportsbooks for those who prefer the traditional route.

Caesars Sportsbook operates at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino, both located in the western part of the state. Additionally, the Catawba Two Kings Casino also offers retail sports betting, making it accessible for those in the central region.

Retail sports betting was first legalized in North Carolina in 2019, initially allowing only in-person wagering at tribal casinos. These retail locations offer a unique social environment and in-person promotions.

With the launch of online sports betting sites, there’s now the flexibility to choose between the convenience of mobile platforms and the immersive experience of retail sportsbooks.

Differences Between North Carolina Mobile Betting and Retail Sports Betting

Mobile betting and retail sports betting in North Carolina each offer distinct advantages and limitations.

Mobile betting allows users to place wagers from anywhere within the state, as long as you’re physically located within North Carolina. Geolocation technology verifies a user’s location when placing bets.

On the other hand, retail sportsbooks are physical establishments, which can be a limitation for some. However, retail sportsbooks offer a vibrant atmosphere.

Mobile platforms typically provide a wider variety of betting options and live features. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prefer flexibility and variety.

How to Choose the Best North Carolina Sports Betting Site

Choosing the best sports betting site in North Carolina can be a daunting task since there’s many options available.

It’s essential to consider several factors such as competitive odds, welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, mobile app usability, and customer service. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in sports betting and maximizing your potential winnings.

Competitive Odds

Competitive odds are an important factor for bettors. They influence potential profits and the overall value of bets placed. Many sportsbooks in North Carolina provide competitive betting odds, which can significantly affect your payouts. It’s key to shop odds at different sportsbooks to make sure you get the best value for your bets.

Some platforms even offer proprietary odds, providing unique pricing on various betting markets.

Welcome Bonuses

Welcome bonuses are a significant attraction for new users. Most sportsbooks in North Carolina offer an enticing welcome bonus. Some sportsbooks even offer a choice between two different promotions, allowing users to select the right offer for their preferences.

Be sure to check out each of my top North Carolina sportsbooks in the section above for the latest welcome offers available in the state!

Promos for Existing Users

There’s also ongoing promotions to keep existing users active on sportsbooks. These can include reload bonuses, odds boosts, cashback deals, and bonus bets. Profit boosts and odds boosts are particularly popular, as they can significantly increase potential payouts.

Easy-to-use Mobile App

A user-friendly mobile app is beneficial for bettors who want to place wagers on the go. Apps like ESPN BET are recognized for their speed and reliability, providing fast navigation for placing wagers.

BetMGM’s app has a clean interface and includes regular promotions. DraftKings also has an intuitive design that simplifies finding odds and placing bets, making them appealing to bettors of all levels.

Competent Customer Service

Responsive and knowledgeable customer service is another must have for users. User reviews often highlight the quality of customer service as a significant factor when choosing a sportsbook.

Top sportsbooks in North Carolina typically offer multiple channels for customer service, including live chat, email, and phone support.

Some platforms also provide extensive FAQs and help sections to aid users in finding answers without direct contact.

How to Sign Up with a North Carolina Sportsbook

Signing up with a North Carolina sportsbook is a straightforward process.

All users must be at least 21 years old. Additionally, you need to be physically present in the state. Most sportsbooks use geolocation technology to verify your location in order to comply with state regulations.

To begin, visit the sportsbook’s website or download their mobile app. Click on the registration button and fill in your personal details, such as name, email, date of birth, and address.

Once your account is created, you can take advantage of various welcome bonuses. Make your first deposit using methods like credit cards, e-wallets, or online banking. Some sportsbooks may require a minimum deposit amount to qualify for bonuses.

After depositing, you can start placing bets. Remember to explore multiple sportsbook options to benefit from different promotional offers and competitive odds.

North Carolina Sports Betting Legislation Timeline

The legalization of sports betting in North Carolina has been a gradual process. Here’s a timeline of the major events capped off with the launch of online sportsbooks:

• March 14, 2023: Senator Tim Moffitt introduces HB 347 to the North Carolina legislature.
• June 7, 2023: The North Carolina House passes HB 347.
• June 14, 2023: Governor Roy Cooper signs HB 347 into law, officially legalizing online sports betting in the state.
• June 20, 2023: The governing body responsible for sports betting meets, designating the North Carolina Education Lottery to oversee online sports betting.
• July 21, 2023: A draft bill to expand casino gambling in North Carolina is introduced, with a vote anticipated in August.
• July 28, 2023: Sterl Carpenter, formerly of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, is appointed as the Deputy Executive Director of Gaming Compliance and Sports Betting.
• August 8, 2023: ESPN BET announces plans to enter the North Carolina market following the legalization of sports betting.
• August 21, 2023: Reports indicate that the North Carolina Education Lottery will not be ready to launch sports betting by the Super Bowl, though progress is being made.
• September 5, 2023: The NC Education Lottery engages Gaming Labs International for testing and certification services related to online betting.
• September 28, 2023: Regulators confirm that online betting operators must partner with local sports teams or venues to enter the market.
• October 6, 2023: NC House Speaker Tim Moore discusses the future of casino legislation and its potential impact on online betting timelines.
• November 14, 2023: The North Carolina State Lottery Commission indicates that online sports betting is unlikely to launch by early January 2024.
• November 16, 2023: The Commission approves initial rules for sports betting, including provisions for esports.
• November 29, 2023: Regulators announce that sports betting will not be available before the Super Bowl, with the application process for operators starting around December 27, 2023.
• December 5, 2023: ESPN BET reveals its partnership with Quail Hollow Club to secure market access.
• December 15, 2023: Fanatics announces a partnership with the Carolina Hurricanes, facilitating its upcoming launch.
• December 26, 2023: Governor Cooper expresses hope for sports betting to go live by March 2024.
• January 5, 2024: BetMGM partners with Charlotte Motor Speedway for mobile betting, while DraftKings teams up with NASCAR for market access.
• January 22, 2024: Underdog confirms a partnership with McConnell Golf, operator of the Sedgefield Country Club.
• January 24, 2024: Officials announce that online sports betting will officially launch on March 11, 2024, with pre-registration starting on March 1.
• January 30, 2024: Caesars NC enhances its partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to enter the online sports betting market.
• March 1, 2024: Pre-registration for North Carolina online sportsbooks begins.
• March 11, 2024: North Carolina officially launches online sportsbooks.

What is the Legal Betting Age in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, you have to be at least 21 years old to participate in sports betting. This age requirement applies to both online and retail sportsbooks. For daily fantasy sports (DFS), the minimum age is also 21. When it comes to horse race betting, the legal age is 18.

These age limits align with the state’s regulations to promote safe betting practices.

North Carolina Daily Fantasy Sports Options

North Carolina offers a variety of daily fantasy sports (DFS) options, with prominent platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings leading the market with a wide array of contests.

The North Carolina Lottery Commission oversees the regulation of DFS activities. Players can participate in DFS contests without any restrictions. This makes it an exciting option for those looking to play fantasy sports while potentially winning cash prizes.

What Sports Can I Bet on in North Carolina?

North Carolina law permits betting on a wide range of sports, including both professional and college events.

This includes popular sports like football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more. Bettors can also place wagers on international sports and events. This makes for a diverse array of options, catering to the preferences of North Carolina sports bettors.

Whether you’re a fan of the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, UNC Tar Heels, Duke Blue Devils or Carolina Hurricanes, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to place your bets at North Carolina sportsbooks.

Which Banking Options are Available at North Carolina Sportsbooks?

North Carolina sportsbooks offer a variety of banking methods for deposits and withdrawals. These include credit cards, debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal and Venmo, and online banking options.

Deposits via credit and debit cards are typically processed instantly, while withdrawal times can vary depending on the method used, ranging from 1 to 5 days.

Cash deposits can also be made instantly at retail casinos. Play+ prepaid cards are another option for instant deposits and can take 1 to 4 days for withdrawals.

It’s essential for users to verify the specific banking options available since not all platforms accept the same methods.

Frequently Asked Questions on North Carolina Sports Betting

Here’s some of the most frequently asked questions about North Carolina sports betting.

Is sports betting legal in North Carolina?

Yes, sports betting is legal in North Carolina through both online platforms and retail locations.

Do I need to live in North Carolina to place a bet?

You don’t need to be a resident of North Carolina to bet, but you must be physically located in the state when you place your wagers.

Which sportsbooks are available in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, you can access the following licensed online sportsbooks: bet365, Fanatics, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, Underdog Sports, ESPN BET, and FanDuel.

What is the best North Carolina sportsbook?

bet365 is the best sportsbook in North Carolina due to its wide range of sports, features and competitive odds.

What is the legal betting age in North Carolina?

The legal betting age in North Carolina is 21 years old.