Texas boasts one of the largest numbers of sports fans in the United States. While sports betting is not yet legal at the time of writing, that has not stopped people in Texas from getting their share of sports betting via offshore sportsbooks.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top 10 online sports betting sites in Texas, plus provide you with a range of information about them. Such as sign-up bonuses, pros and cons, types of bets available, and the necessary requirements to bet at these online Texas sports betting sites.
The Top TX Sports Betting Sites for December 2024
BetOnline Grab 50% Bonus + Up to $250 in Free Bets + 100 Free Spins Grab 50% Bonus + Up to $250 in Free Bets + 100 Free Spins BetWhale 125% Deposit Boost Up To $1,250 125% Deposit Boost Up To $1,250 Bovada 75% Crypto Deposit Bonus Up To $750 75% Crypto Deposit Bonus Up To $750 BetNow Up to 200% in Welcome Bonuses Up to 200% in Welcome Bonuses Everygame Up to $500 Welcome Bonus Up to $500 Welcome Bonus CoinPoker Sports 150% Deposit Bonus Up to $2,000 150% Deposit Bonus Up to $2,000 MyBookie 50% Welcome Deposit Bonus up to $1000 + $10 Casino Chip 50% Welcome Deposit Bonus up to $1000 + $10 Casino Chip BetUS 125% Bonus on your first 3 Deposits 125% Bonus on your first 3 Deposits Sportsbetting Welcome Bonus: DOUBLE your money TWICE Welcome Bonus: DOUBLE your money TWICE Xbet 50% Welcome Deposit Bonus Up To $500 + $10 Casino Chip 50% Welcome Deposit Bonus Up To $500 + $10 Casino Chip
Top Rated
BetOnline
Play Now
BetWhale
Play Now
Bovada
Play Now
BetNow
Play Now
CRYPTO200 Min. $10 deposit required and max. bonus is $200. 30X rollover. Additional promo codes BN150, BN100, BN50 required to claim additional offers. Full T&Cs apply.
Everygame
Play Now
CoinPoker Sports
Play Now
MyBookie
Play Now
BetUS
Play Now
Sportsbetting
Play Now
Xbet
Play Now
List of the Best Sportsbooks in Texas
This list contains what we believe are the best online sportsbooks available to sports gamblers in Texas.
- BetOnline – Best all-in-one online betting site in Texas
- Bovada – Good odds and high bonuses
- BetNow – Top-rated prop builder
- Everygame – Wide range of online sports betting markets
- BetUS – Fast payouts within 48 hours
- MyBookie – Excellent online sportsbook with live betting options
- BUSR – Top Texas sportsbooks for horse racing
- SportsBetting.ag – Wide variety of banking options
- XBet – Odds boosts for select sports wagers
- Mega Dice – Superb crypto sportsbook in TX
Texas Sports Betting Updates
Find out the latest updates on legalizing sports betting in Texas.
- 29 May 2023 – Despite the Texas house approving a referendum on the legalization of sports betting within the state, Texas’ legislative session ends with no bills brought to the table regarding sports betting.
- 27 April 2023 – The Houston Texans make a splash at the NFL draft as they use their second overall pick on quarterback C.J. Stroud and trade up to select Alabama pass-rusher Will Anderson Jr. with the third overall pick.
- 3 April 2023 – Dallas News report that red Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick is a major decider in whether sports betting will come to the Lone Star State, as there is generally not enough Republican support.
- 25 January 2023 – News reports detail how a Political Action Committee (PAC) from Las Vegas Sands will push for legalized sports betting in Texas. The effort sees them hire lobbyists and contribute millions of dollars to dozens of Texas lawmakers and legislative groups. Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan received $300,000 from the Texas Sands PAC.
- 11 January 2023 – Texas does not currently offer legal sports betting. The state’s 2023 parliamentary session, which runs from January 10 to May 29, will be the last chance to introduce legislature advocating for legalization until 2024.
The Latest Texas Sports Betting News
Best Texas Online Sports Betting Sites Reviewed
Sports betting is not yet legal in Texas, but that has not stopped citizens from placing bets on offshore sportsbooks. Therefore, we will further break down the best betting sites and take a closer look at their pros and cons, markets, and bonuses to help sports bettors make the best choice.
1. BetOnline: Best All-in-One Online Betting Site in Texas
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: BetOnline
- Payout time: Most within 48 hours
- Established: 2004
- License: Panama
- Headquarters: Panama City, Panama
Our Verdict: 4.7/5
BetOnline is another great option for sports bettors from Texas that are looking for a great offshore sportsbook. With a license from Panama, BetOnline is regulated in a betting jurisdiction, even if it may not be one that’s located in the US.
BetOnline has been in the news in the past with some interesting marketing techniques. They tried to be the first sportsbook to accept a bet from the top of Mount Everest. While they didn’t accomplish that, they did manage to take a bet from a base camp.
Sports Betting Options at BetOnline: 4.2/5
BetOnline does have a lot of great betting options. Like all the sportsbooks on this list, all the major sports leagues are offered. In addition, there are more exotic sports such as handball, rugby, and surfing.
Payment Options: 4.6/5
There are a ton of payment options that you can use at BetOnline. These include options such as wire transfers, Bitcoin, credit cards, checks, and more. Withdrawals will take around 48 hours to be processed and appear in your account shortly after that.
Customer Support: 4.2/5
BetOnline customer support is available 24/7. There is always someone that you can get in contact with, either through their phone number, live chat, or by email.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.6/5
The welcome bonus, as well as the ongoing promotions, at BetOnline are very good. This is one area where the sportsbook does shine. A good example is the current welcome bonus with a value of over four figures.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 50% up to $1,000 | 10x | $20 | Same Day | Yes |
Pros:
- Excellent platform for live betting
- Lots of promotions
- Big welcome bonus
Cons:
- Extremely high fees on deposits by credit or debit card
2. Bovada: Good Odds and High Bonuses
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: Bovada
- Payout time: 24-48 hours
- Established: 2011
- License: None
- Headquarters: Quebec, Canada
Our Verdict: 4.6/5
Bovada is one of the most well-known offshore sportsbooks available in the US. Its long history as a top sports betting operator for people across the country has helped it develop a very trustworthy reputation.
The Bovada brand was established in 2011 and is an offshoot of its global partner, Bodog. We think that Bovada is the best option for Texas residents as it packs a massive punch in terms of betting markets available, ranging from the NBA to smaller leagues.
Bovada also has a very visually appealing website that makes it easy to find what you’re looking for. Easily navigate the pages that are set up in a way that just makes sense.
Sports Betting Options at Bovada: 4.8/5
Bovada has a great offering in terms of betting markets and bet types. You can choose to place wagers on popular North American sports leagues like the NBA or NFL or you could bet on exotic markets such as politics. Bovada also has a solid live betting section where you can bet on games that are currently in progress.
Payment Options: 4.0/5
Bovada offers a few different payment options including traditional banking options like a Visa card. If you want something else, you can deposit or withdraw with cryptocurrency. Deposits can show up in your account within a matter of minutes while Bovada claims to process all withdrawals within 24-48 hours.
Customer Support: 4.0/5
Customer support is one area where Bovada could be better but it’s still far from the worst when it comes to Texas online sports betting. There are three options for users: phone, email, or live chat. It can take a few minutes to get in contact with someone at Bovada.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.2/5
The bonuses and promotions at Bovada are solid. Not only are they usually worth a decent amount but Bovada also makes an effort to switch them often to keep things fresh.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 75% up to $750 | 5x | $20 | Same Day | Yes |
Pros:
- Great reputation
- Extensive coverage of popular and less popular sports
- Lots of deposit options
- Interesting and intriguing promotions
Cons:
- Customer support can be slow
3. BetNow: Top Rated Prop Builder
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: BetNow
- Payout time: Max 24 hours
- Established: 2005
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: London, England
- Restricted states: Washington, Florida, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Nevada
Our Verdict: 4.6/5
BetNow is another sportsbook that has a license in Curacao and is available to American sports bettors as an offshore option. The platform hosts plenty of players and features a good variety of betting markets as well as strong promotions.
One negative to the BetNow brand is that the mobile website can be a bit glitchy and hard to navigate. We found that sometimes the menus didn’t work perfectly and this is something that could be improved upon. However, overall it’s a very solid sportsbook.
Sports Betting Options at BetNow: 4.6/5
BetNow has plenty of sports betting markets. These include a ton of different betting options for every game. For example, in your typical NFL game, you can find the moneyline, the spread, the total as well as a bunch more props.
Payment Options: 4.4/5
With options like American Express, Visa, money transfer, and more, BetNow has a good array of choices. This is one of the only online sportsbooks to take American Express.
Customer Support: 4.2/5
With a toll-free number that can be contacted at any time, BetNow does have an around-the-clock option. However, we would like to see some improvement in this area.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.1/5
The promotions and bonuses at BetNow are solid. We would put them around the industry average for gray-market sportsbooks and believe that they are a fine option.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 150% up to $150 | 8x | $10 | Same Day | Yes |
Pros:
- Top-rated prop bets
- Easy and fast deposits
- Contests with real cash prizes
Cons:
- Mobile website could be better optimized
4. Everygame: Wide Range of Online Sports Betting Markets
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: Everygame
- Payout time: 2-5 business days
- Established: 2021 / 1996 (as Intertops)
- License: Kahnawake Gaming Commission
- Headquarters: Antigua and Barbuda
Our Verdict: 4.5/5
Everygame is a sportsbook that accepts players from around the world. Although Everygame was initially set up all the way back in 1996 as Intertops, it was launched in 2021 in its current iteration – making it one of the best new sports betting sites.
Everygame is determined to offer sports bettors a great experience with a focus on choice. This means choice in betting markets, choice in payment options, and choice in promotions. Since launch, it has quickly become a very popular choice for sports bettors.
Sports Betting Options at Everygame: 4.7/5
This is an area where Everygame does very well. It offers plenty of different sports such as football, soccer, and baseball. More than the sports that they offer, Everygame makes sure to have plenty of leagues available for each sport. This means a ton of soccer leagues as it covers different countries and levels.
Payment Options: 4.4/5
Everygame does a good job of offering different payment options for sports bettors. Some of the secure options include Bitcoin, wire transfers, check, and more. You can expect withdrawals to take between 2-5 business days to be processed.
Customer Support: 4.0/5
With a 24/7 live chat and different emails that you can contact, Everygame has solid customer support. However, it could be better in terms of being quicker and more prepared to help.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.2/5
The bonuses and promotions at Everygame are strong and change often. If there’s a major sporting event on, you can bet that Everygame will have a related bonus.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 100% up to $250 (can be done 3 times on first three deposits) | 8x | $20 | 48 Hours | Yes |
Pros:
- Large selection of games
- Parlay Prince Program
- Choice of welcome bonus
Cons:
- Juice can be high on some of the lines
5. BetUS: Fast Payout Within 48 Hours
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: BetUS
- Payout time: 3-10 business days
- Established: 1994
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: San Jose, Costa Rica
- Restricted states:
Our Verdict: 4.4/5
BetUS is a brand that has been around for a long time as it dates back to the mid-1990s. It is yet again another gray market sportsbook with a license from Curacao.
With such a long track record of success, BetNow stands out above some of the other options available to Texas residents. The sportsbook even has multiple TV shows where hosts discuss bets and gambling plays for the upcoming days.
Sports Betting Options at BetUS: 4.6/5
You can find all the best sports betting options at BetUS. This means that you have your choice of sports like basketball, football, golf, tennis, baseball and more.
Payment Options: 3.9/5
BetUS does have a good selection of payment options including Visa, bank transfer, ewallets, and cryptocurrency. However, BetUS does take 24-48 hours to validate transactions, including cryptocurrency, which is not ideal.
Customer Support: 4.2/5
BetUS has a variety of different phone numbers that you can contact depending on what you’re interested in. If you don’t want to talk over the phone, you can also send them an email.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.5/5
BetUS has a large welcome bonus and often runs strong promotions. These include deposit matches as well as free bets that are handed out to loyal players.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 125% up to $3,125 | 30x casino | $100 | 24-48 Hours | Yes |
Pros:
- Great live betting section
- Welcome bonus of 125% up to $2,500
- Fast payouts
Cons:
- Some withdrawal methods have additional fees
6. MyBookie: Excellent Online Sportsbook with Live Betting Options
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: MyBookie
- Payout time: 24 hours to 5 days
- Established: 2014
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: Costa Rica
Our Verdict: 4.4/5
Since 2014, MyBookie has been a popular option for American residents looking for a gray-market option. This is a Curaçao licensed sportsbook and does advertise to American gamblers as it attempts to gain customers from the United States.
It’s a strong sportsbook that has all the features you need and more. The mobile website is especially strong as it moves quickly and allows for easy sports betting from your phone or other electronic devices.
Sports Betting Options at MyBookie: 4.3/5
MyBookie has all the normal betting markets that most people enjoy. You will definitely be able to place your NFL bets every Sunday at MyBookie. However, we would like to see some more variation in the exotic markets.
Payment Options: 4.0/5
MyBookie could have more payment options. Saying that, they do accept wire transfers, Visa, and various cryptocurrencies. You can expect to receive most withdrawals within 48 hours.
Customer Support: 4.2/5
The MyBookie support team is available around the clock but only through a live chat or support form option. More options would result in a higher score in this area.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.7/5
This is an area where MyBookie does a really good job. There are constantly strong promotions and they are usually for quite a bit of money, meaning that sports bettors can extract strong value.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 50% up to $1,000 | 14x | $50 | Same Day | Yes |
Pros:
- Huge range of betting options
- Strong reputation built over many years
- Impressive welcome bonus
- Several banking methods including cryptocurrencies
Cons:
- Various fees on non-crypto withdrawals
7. BUSR: Top Texas Sportsbook for Horse Racing
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: BUSR
- Payout time: 24-72 hours
- Established: 2014
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: United Kingdom
- Restricted states: N/A
Our Verdict: 4.3/5
What started as a horse racing platform has expanded into one of the best online sportsbook options. BUSR has head offices in the United Kingdom and a license from Curacao. The sportsbook is now known around the world as a great choice for online bettors.
BUSR has a great website that is very appealing to look at. Not only is the design great visually, it’s also very functional. This makes the user experience on the BUSR platform very nice.
Sports Betting Options at BUSR: 4.2/5
BUSR sportsbook has a solid variety of betting markets. This includes a decent amount of sports, however, we would like to see some more exotic options on sports that aren’t horse racing. If you’re into horse racing, however, the exotic options are near limitless, meaning this is likely the sportsbook for you.
Payment Options: 4.0/5
While BUSR does let you deposit using credit cards, it does also encourage users to use cryptocurrency. These are the two most popular deposit options at BUSR. You will find that when withdrawing, your requests are processed within 72 hours maximum, and sometimes even within 24 hours.
Customer Support: 4.2/5
BUSR has a helpline, a live chat, as well as a help form that they use to serve their user base. These are all solid options that can help you get in touch with someone at BUSR.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.2/5
The bonuses and promotions at BUSR are pretty solid, both in their frequency as well as their average value. The sign-up bonus gives you the chance to take advantage of a really solid deposit match bonus.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 150% up to $2,500 | 10x | $100 | 3-7 Business Days | Yes |
Pros:
- Access to a special racing section
- Crypto-friendly mobile sports betting
- Easy to customize odds format and time zone
Cons:
- Could use more betting markets for exotic sports
8. SportsBetting.ag: Wide Variety of Banking Options
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: SportsBetting.ag
- Payout time: 48-72 hours
- Established: 2011
- License: Panama Gaming Authority
- Headquarters: Panama City, Panama
- Restricted states: New Jersey
Our Verdict: 4.2/5
SportsBetting.Ag is another site that has been around. The current site was established in 2011 but the same company has had similar betting sites in the past. As it stands right now, the SportsBetting.ag website could probably use a facelift although there are some good features.
SportsBetting.ag has an old-looking layout but does do a solid job in terms of banking options and betting markets. Don’t let the 1990s-style display fool you!
Sports Betting Options at SportsBetting.Ag: 4.2/5.0
SportsBetting.Ag has a strong variety of betting options for sports bettors. They have plenty of betting markets for the big sports like the NFL as well as lots of other sports that are smaller and might not get the same spotlight.
Payment Options: 4.1/5
SportsBetting.Ag also does a solid job with the payment options offered. There is an impressive number of crypto options available for users at SportsBetting.Ag including way more than just Bitcoin. Using one of these cryptocurrencies will speed up your deposits and withdrawals to a matter of minutes after being approved.
Customer Support: 4.0/5
With three different emails, a live chat function, and a telephone number that is available around the clock, you have options when it comes to contacting SportsBetting.ag.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.3/5
SportsBetting.Ag has a good amount of promotions. The frequency at which they are offered to sports bettors is impressive, though we would like to see some bigger values to earn full marks here.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 50% up to $1,000 | 10x (14x for crypto) | $20 | Same Day | Yes |
Pros:
- High deposit and withdrawal limits
- Solid welcome bonus
- A wide range of banking options
Cons:
- Varying transaction fees for most withdrawals
9. XBet: Odds Boosts for Select Sports Wagers
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: XBet
- Payout time: 2-3 days
- Established: 2014
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: Costa Rica
- Restricted states: N/A
Our Verdict: 4.2/5
XBet is an online sportsbook option that has its strengths but some weaknesses kept it from breaking the top five on our list. Despite that, we still feel as if this is a good sportsbook option for Texas sports bettors.
XBet does a good job at making sure that sports bettors have access to the betting markets that they know and love. One thing that we would like to see XBet improve upon is its promotions as it could do better in that area.
Sports Betting Options at XBet: 4.3/5
XBet has a decent range of sports betting options. We would like to see some more special bets such as entertainment fields but it does have all your classic sports leagues.
Payment Options: 4.0/5
Like most of the sportsbooks on this page, XBet has a variety of options including Visa, Mastercard, and a few cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash. Most withdrawals will be processed within two days though it can sometimes take a third.
Customer Support: 4.3/5
XBet has a customer support system that allows sports bettors to contact them on the phone. If you have an account, you can also use a members-only live chat function.
Bonuses & Promos: 3.9/5
The promotions at XBet could be better. There are other sportsbooks on this list that consistently offer larger promotions.
| Sign-Up Bonus | Wagering Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 50% up to $500 | 10x | $20 | 2-3 Days | Yes |
Pros:
- Accepts various cryptocurrencies
- Frequent odds boosts
- Full racebook for betting on horse and dog races
Cons:
- Limited options for international betting on some sports
10. Mega Dice – Best New Site for Sports Betting in Texas in 2024
Sportsbook facts:
- Website: Mega Dice
- Payout time: 0-3 days
- Established: 2023
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: Curacao
- Restricted states: Use VPN to access in all states
Our Verdict: 4.2/5
Licensed in Curacao and under the regulation of the Curacao Gaming Control Board, Mega Dice is the perfect spot for crypto sports betting in Texas.
Sports Betting Options at Mega Dice: 4.3/5
Though a newcomer to the sports betting industry, Mega Dice is easily one of the most stylized and well-rounded TX sportsbooks featured on this list. It’s simple to use, has some great features, and the mobile website works perfectly when betting on the go. The sportsbook covers 34+ sports, with a huge selection of wagering options available and quick in-play betting markets for all of the world’s most popular leagues, including the NFL, NBA, EPL, and MLB.
Unlike other Texas sports betting sites, Mega Dice incorporates the use of on-site analytics. Click on an upcoming NFL game, for example, to view all the potentially decisive info on the next Dallas Cowboys game before placing your bets, including recent performances, in-form players, and historical results.
Payment Options: 4.8/5
Users can perform transactions using fiat currencies, but Mega Dice is primarily aimed at crypto enthusiasts and, as such, allows for deposits and withdrawals using nine coins, including Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Soldano, and Dogecoin. Minimum deposits can be made from as little as $1 and withdrawals using cryptos tend to take less than an hour to land in your account.
Customer Support: 4.3/5
Mega Dice has an excellent customer support system that allows patrons to contact them near-instantaneously using the Live Chat function in the bottom right-hand side of the screen. Useful hints and tips can also be read in the Help Centre.
Bonuses & Promos: 3.4/5
Register an account with Mega Dice today and take advantage of the sportsbook’s 200% sports welcome offer, as well as its generous loyalty bonus scheme.
| Welcome Bonus | Rollover Requirement | Minimum Deposit | Payout Time | Accepts US Players? |
| 200% up to BTC 1 + 50 free spins + free bet |
Wager initial deposit 6x to release each 10% of bonus | $20 | Instant | Yes (using VPN) |
Pros:
- User-friendly platform
- Live betting is available
- Accepts a huge range of cryptos
- 200% sports betting Texas welcome offer
Cons:
- Weak traditional banking
Texas Sports Betting FAQs
Here are a few of the most common questions about sports betting in Texas and their answers.
Is sports betting legal in Texas?
When will online sports betting be legal in Texas?
Where can I bet on sports in Texas?
What is the best sports betting site in Texas?
Can I use MyBookie in Texas?
Is daily fantasy sports legal in Texas?
Who supports legalizing sports betting in Texas?
Can I bet on Texas college sports?
What kind of gambling is legal in Texas?
Who would oversee betting in Texas?
Are offshore betting sites safe?
Comparing Texas Online Sportsbooks
Every online sportsbook will offer different features including a sign-up bonus and more. This section will cover the different offers at each of our favorite offshore sportsbooks as well as give a quick rundown on the live betting and streaming capabilities.
| Sportsbook | Sign-Up Bonus | Bonus Code | Sports to bet on | Live betting | Live streaming |
| BetOnline | 50% up to $1,000 | BOL1000 | 30+ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Bovada | $250 50% Deposit Match | BVD1000 | 30+ | ✅ | ✅ |
| BetNow | 150% deposit match up to $150 | BN150 | 40+ | ✅ | ❌ |
| EveryGame | Up to $250 extra on your first three deposits | WELCOME500 | 40+ | ✅ | ❌ |
| BetUS | 125% sign-up bonus up to $3,125 | JOIN125 | 40+ | ✅ | ✅ |
| MyBookie | 50% deposit match up to $1000 | MYB100 | 30+ | ✅ | ❌ |
| BUSR | Up to $2500 free play bonus | N/A | 30+ | ✅ | ❌ |
| SportsBetting.ag | 50% welcome bonus up to $1000 | SB1000 | 25+ | ✅ | ✅ |
| XBet | 50% deposit match up to $500 | B2CXB | 30+ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Mega Dice | 200% Bonus Up To 1BTC + 50 Free Spins | N/A | 34+ | ✅ | ❌ |
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Texas?
Betting at offshore sportsbooks is not against the law in Texas, but retail sportsbooks cannot legally operate in the state. In the meantime, you can legally and safely place bets at one of the offshore sportsbooks recommended on this page.
This could be changing soon as pressure continues to mount. Anytime there is this much money involved in a hot-button issue, the law is sure to be reconsidered. However, for the moment it remains illegal for a sportsbook to operate inside of Texas.
American bettors have relied on offshore gambling sites for years without issue, with Bovada being one of the most popular sites for Texans to bet on sports online.
Although sports betting is not yet permitted by local authorities, it is possible to do so through offshore sportsbooks, leaving sports betting in what’s known as a gray market.
Who can Legally Bet on Sports in Texas?
Currently, the only way for Texas residents to bet on sports is to use an offshore sportsbook. These TX offshore betting sites will accept American residents once they hit the age of 18. This means that you need to be at least 18 before you can sign up for an offshore sportsbook in Texas such as Bovada.
If Texas does move to a fully legal market in the future, it’s very likely that the minimum age will be at least 21 years old to place a sports bet.
How to Bet on Sports Online in Texas
It’s very easy to get started at a sportsbook in Texas today. Simply follow the steps listed below and you will be able to get your account opened in a matter of minutes.
1. Visit the website of your online sportsbook choice
For this example, we are using BetOnline.
2. Click on the ‘Join’ button
First, click ‘Join’ to take you to the registration page. From there, you need to fill in details such as your name, email and date of birth.
3. Fill in all your details and then finish your registration
You will then be able to explore the betting pages like this one while being logged in.
The Best Texas (TX) Sports Betting Apps
Every online sportsbook worth its salt these days is going to cater to mobile bettors. While the majority of platforms highlighted in this guide don’t offer downloadable Texas sports betting apps, this doesn’t mean that you can’t use your phone to place wagers.
That’s because every one of the options on our list has optimized its website to allow for a smooth mobile betting experience. You won’t see any drop off in the usability of these mobile platforms. This goes for iOS and Android users alike.
- The Bovada mobile website for example has ultra-fast loading speeds. The design of the mobile sportsbook is very intuitive, so you can quickly find the bets you wish to place. Even carrying out transactions on your phone couldn’t be easier.
- Another quality mobile sportsbook comes from BetUS. Total beginners will feel comfortable with using this offering on a phone as there is no clutter, making it easy to find your way around. One of the standout aspects is the mobile website’s live betting interface, with the odds updating in real-time in front of your eyes, allowing you to take advantage of opportunities as you see fit.
With such quality mobile sports betting websites being available to choose between, you’ll never again have to miss out on potentially profitable betting opportunities when you’re away from your computer. There truly is no need to use downloadable Texas sportsbook apps any longer.
When will Betting be Legal in Texas?
Texas will not have legalized sports betting before the end of 2024. The Texas legislature only meets in odd-numbered years, so failure to legalize in 2023 will likely result in another two-year delay. The Texas legislature will not convene again until 14 January 2025. Thus, sports bettors should not expect a legal market anytime soon.
The January 2023 Ballot to Legalize Sports Betting in Texas
Texas has just under 10% of the US population. This means that if sports betting became legalized, Texas could take in about $15 billion of the estimated $150 billion US gambling market. Apart from California, which is also considering legalizing sports betting, Texas would have by far the largest legal sports betting market in the United States.
This not only piqued the interest of the world’s largest sportsbooks, but also that of Texas business leaders. Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, has already entered into a partnership with WinStar Casino in Oklahoma and would probably welcome the possibility of a partnership with another sportsbook.
Supporters & Opponents of the 2023 Ballot for Legal Sports Betting in Texas
There are many powerful players in the fight to get sports betting legalized in Texas. This includes plenty of people with deep pockets who are ready to spend serious money. Here is a quick overview of some of the supporters and opponents of the most recent legalization effort in Texas.
Supporters
- Dallas Mavericks Owner Mark Cuban
- Sports Betting Alliance
- Coalition formed
Opponents
- Governor Greg Abbott
Potential Revenue of Sports Betting in Texas
Moreover, if sports betting becomes legal in Texas, Texans will no longer have to travel to nearby states that have legal sports betting, generating tax revenue for other neighboring states.
Previous Sports Betting Bills in Texas
There have been numerous sports betting bills in the past that have been introduced to change Texas gambling laws. Despite these attempts, none of them have been successful. Here’s a brief overview of the previous efforts.
2023
- HB 1942: Submitted by Rep. Jeff Leach. This bill proposes the regulation of sports betting with licensing, taxes and criminal offences included. It would require the vote of Texans before the laws could be introduced. The bill has crossed has been passed from the House to the Senate.
- HJR 97: Submitted by Rep. Charlie Green. This resolution looks to amend the constitution to provide tax relief and funding for education through the creation of the Texas Gaming Commission and the legalization of retail casino gaming, and sports betting at those locations. The resolution has been referred to State Affairs.
- HJR 102: Submitted by Rep. Jeff Leach. This resolution proposed a constitutional agreement to allow the legalization of sports wagering, and also stipulates that 98% of tax generated by sports wagering go to property tax relief. The resolution has passed from the House to the Senate.
- SB 715: Submitted by Sens. Lois Kolkhorst and Juan Hinojosa. This is the senate equivalent of HB 1942 (see above). The bill was most recently referred to State Affairs.
- SJR 17: Submitted by Sen. Carol Alvarado. This resolution is the senate equivalent to HJR 97. The resolution has been referred to State Affairs.
- SJR 39: Submitted by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst. This is the senate equivalent resolution to HJR 102. The resolution has been referred to State Affairs.
2022
- HB 904: Submitted by Rep. Joseph Moody. This bill sought to add certain offenses to the law regarding criminal offences related to gambling. The bill dies in committee.
2021
- HB 393: Submitted by Rep. Joseph Moody. This bill relates to the definition of a bet or wager for criminal gambling purposes. It dies in the Calendars committee.
- HB 1121: Submitted by Rep. Harold Dutton. This bill proposes the legalization of sports betting, the fees and taxation surrounding it as well as criminal offenses and civil penalties. The bill dies in committee.
- HB 2070: Submitted by Rep. Dan Huberty. A bill looking to legislate both retail and online sports wagering in TX. The house heard testimonies, but the bill was eventually left pending on committee.
- HJR 68: Submitted by Rep. Harold Dutton. The resolution proposed a constitutional amendment to pave the way for legalization of sports wagering on professional and collegiate events. It dies in committee.
- HJR 97: Submitted by Rep. Dan Huberty. This resolution was the relevant resolution to attempt the passing of HB 2070 and SB 736. It dies in committee.
- SB 592: Submitted by Sen. Kolkhorst. This bill is the senate equivalent of HB 393. The bill suffers the same fate and dies in committee.
- SB 736: Submitted by Sen. Juan Hinojosa. This bill is the senate equivalent to HB 2070 (see above). After being referred to Business & Commerce, the bill dies.
- SJR 39: Submitted by Sen. Juan Hinojosa. This is the equivalent resolution to HJR 97. It also dies in committee.
2019
- HB 1275: Submitted by Rep. Eddie Lucio. Enabled by HJR 61, this bill related to the legalization of sports betting. It was referred to Licensing and Administrative Procedures before dying in committee.
- HJR 61: Submitted by Rep. Eddie Lucio. The resolution proposes a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize sports betting in the state. The resolution dies in committee.
Tax on Sports Betting Winnings in Texas
Texans do not have to pay taxes on their sports winnings because the state does not currently allow sports betting. The only way to bet on sports currently in Texas is via an offshore sportsbook, where you don’t need to pay tax on winnings either.
However, people may have to pay taxes on their winnings from out-of-state gambling. If sports gambling were to be legalized, it’s likely that Texans would not have to pay state tax on winnings as there is no state income tax on individuals.
Payment Methods Available
There are multiple different payment options available at TX sportsbooks. The more payment options offered, the better, and sportsbooks that offer more than average deserve praise. Here are a few of the most popular payment methods you will find at Texas betting platforms.
Crypto Betting Options
Crypto sports betting sites are something that has changed the world of online payments. Bitcoin and other crypto options have made it easier to send money online. This is a faster way to move money into your betting account compared to using the traditional banking system. Some sportsbooks will offer additional bonuses for using crypto.
eWallet Betting Options
eWallets are another option that people use to move money around online. PayPal is the dominant player in this space and the most popular but there are a few other options that you might be using. Currently, however, most offshore sportsbooks don’t accept a transfer from an eWallet.
Traditional Payment Methods
Finally, traditional payment methods such as using a credit card are still widely used in the online betting space. However, there can be higher fees associated with using one of these methods. Still, many people feel most comfortable using credit cards and will opt to pay the fees.
Best Betting Bonuses
Sports bettors in Texas can choose from a variety of generous bonuses & sports betting promo codes while engaging in Texas online sports betting. There are a few different types of bonuses that you will see most often at Texas sportsbooks. Here is a quick overview of the top three bonus types you will see.
Match Deposit Bonuses
A deposit match is when the sportsbook matches a percentage of your initial deposit into your sportsbook account. It’s quite self-explanatory. For example, a 100% deposit match on a $100 deposit means that not only will you get the $100 you provided, but the sportsbook will also provide another $100. There is often a maximum value on this type of promotion with wagering requirements.
No Deposit Bonuses
A no deposit bonus is a bonus that requires no initial deposit and typically consists of free play or a free credit balance. Playing with a no deposit bonus code allows you to try out a gambling website without risking your own money. These are considered some of the best bonuses by many sports bettors because of the low commitment needed to redeem them.
Free Bets
Free bets are exactly as they sound. You place them and if they win, money is credited to your account. Usually, offshore sportsbooks offer promotions for free bets. You will find that this is one of the most popular promotions. One thing to note is that with the majority of free bets, the value of the free bet is not included in the winnings that are returned to you.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Texas
There are many professional sports teams in Texas and the sportsbooks will let you bet on all of them. The offshore sportsbooks listed in this guide all have plenty of sports available for you to bet on. Below we will explore how you can bet on the various professional sports teams in Texas and more.
NFL
Betting on the NFL is the most popular sports betting market in North America. With football ingrained in the Texas culture and way of life, there’s no doubt that the NFL would be one of the most popular sports for bettors in a legal Texas market.
We think that Bovada is currently the best choice for sports bettors that want to bet on the NFL. With two teams in Texas, sports bettors can place a variety of bets on their local squads including but limited to the moneyline, spread and more.
NBA
With three NBA teams in Texas, it’s no surprise that the sport is so popular. These franchises that call Texas home have been some of the NBA’s best over the past few decades.
For Texas sports bettors who want to bet on NBA games, Jazz Sports is a great option. The sportsbook has plenty of NBA betting markets and runs promotions where gamblers can earn free bets to use on NBA action.
MLB
Betting on the MLB clubs based in Texas, such as the Houston Astros, is legal in Texas. It is possible to also bet on teams based in other states and even foreign baseball leagues. Live betting, spreads, teasers, parlays, futures, and the traditional straight bet are available for MLB betting in Texas just as they are for other professional sports.
We recommend that you use Everygame for your MLB betting needs as the sportsbook does a great job at providing betting lines for the league.
NHL
While the NHL may not be as popular as some other professional sports leagues in Texas, it’s slowly growing. The Dallas Stars are the sole NHL team that calls Texas home and thus get a big spotlight. Many sports bettors enjoy betting on the NHL because of the high level of parity in the league.
If you’re looking to bet on the NHL, Bovada would be our chosen option. The sportsbook is ranked number one by us for a reason and it has a great NHL section. This includes all the different bet types you could ever want and a great live betting tab.
NCAA Football
There is nothing that goes together quite like Texas and college football. This college sport enjoys a massive fanbase inside the state. College football stadiums in Texas dwarf professional stadiums in other states to accommodate the massive number of fans. Thus, it’s no secret that sports bettors also love to bet on the sport in Texas.
While the college football season isn’t too long, there are still plenty of opportunities for sports bettors to get some action down. Bovada once again is the best place to do that with its strong betting lines, great choice and selection, and wonderful interface.
NCAA Basketball
While college football gets a lot of headlines and attention in Texas, college basketball is also super popular. There are a ton of high-level college basketball programs in the state and they get to recruit from the deep pool of talent that grows inside Texas.
Some of the most significant college sport programs in recent history include the Texas Tech Red Raiders and Baylor Bears, both teams that have made it to the finals of March Madness in recent history.
If you’re looking for a sportsbook for college hoops, BetOnline is a great option. The sportsbook has a wonderful college basketball section and hosts all the games that Texas residents would be interested in.
Golf
Golf is another sport that sports bettors, including those in Texas, love. There are plenty of ways to bet on your favorite golf tournaments as you can pick the outright winner or go with any one of the other many betting markets.
BetOnline.ag offers a wonderful golf betting selection, including markets such as three-ball betting. Below we have listed some of the tournaments held in Texas that you can bet on.
Horse Racing
Horse racing has been a staple of Texas culture for decades and is one of the few legal forms of retail gambling in the state. Events include thoroughbred racing, quarter horse racing and harness racing. However, you can only place a bet if you’re at one of the three approved tracks.
You can place bets on the horses even if you can not make it to the tracks (which we have listed below) through an offshore sportsbook. You can bet on a variety of racetracks and races from around the country. Most of the top-rated sportsbooks we have reviewed accept bets on horse racing in Texas.
There is no better place to bet on horses than Jazz, where you will find the best betting options and the largest selection of races. It’s easy to navigate and get action down on horse races from all around.
- Lone Star Park
- Retama Park
- Sam Houston Race Park
DFS
Daily Fantasy Sports has taken off in popularity in recent years. Fantasy sports activity has captured the attention of millions across the United States and has been a major factor in earning DraftKings and FanDuel the massive reputations that they have today.
You can play on the most popular daily fantasy sports websites in Texas, including DraftKings and FanDuel. Texas lawmakers distinguish DFS from organized sports betting on the premise that DFS is a pay-to-play game of skill.
- DraftKings – Offers DFS contests across virtually every imaginable major sport.
- FanDuel – Like DraftKings, FanDuel offers multi-million-dollar prize pools on DFS contests across numerous sports.
- PrizePicks – 25% Deposit Match Bonus up to $1000 on this fantasy sports site
Live Betting at Texas Sportsbooks
Live betting is becoming more and more popular with sports bettors across the country. The advancement of technology has made live betting much easier and resulted in more people gaining access to fun activities.
We recommend Bovada for a great live betting experience. The platform moves very quickly and there is a lot of selection in terms of the bets you can choose from. It’s also not very cramped as the live betting section at some sportsbooks can become messy.
How Texas Sports Betting Compares to its Neighboring States
Despite the fact that sports betting will not be coming to Texas anytime soon, it does seem as if there is some reason for optimism. Sports betting is a growing industry, and more and more states are legalizing it.
The neighboring states around Texas are at different stages when it comes to legal sports betting. Here is a quick overview:
Louisiana
Louisiana does have a fully legal sports betting market. This includes the ability to place bets at physical casinos in person as well as through a mobile device. This is a great example for Texas to follow. Louisiana reported a total handle of over $356 million for November 2023.
Oklahoma
In a similar fashion to Texas, there has not been a ton of progress on the advancement of legal sports betting in Oklahoma. There is still ample use of offshore sportsbooks but pushes to enact a fully green market have fallen well short of the support level needed. Of all the states neighboring Texas, Oklahoma seems to be in the most similar situation when it comes to legalizing sports betting – it could take a while.
Arkansas
Arkansas has made great strides in the gambling industry since it opened the state’s first retail casino in 2019. Currently, Arkansas has three casinos where bets can be placed in person or online, and mobile betting has been available to residents and visitors alike since 7 March 2022. This means that the state is much more friendly than Texas when it comes to sports betting.
New Mexico
Although similar legislation to legalize sports betting has not been formally proposed in New Mexico as it has in Texas, many experts believe it is likely to happen in the near future given the popularity of sports betting. There are tribal casinos that accept sports betting in New Mexico, but a fully legal market with online capabilities seems far off.
The Best Betting Site in Texas
BetOnline has been a household name in both sports betting and offshore online casinos for a number of years. They have established themselves as a top sportsbook for US bettors, offering a huge selection of odds on North American sports as well as other sports played around the globe. You’ll find hundreds of betting options, specials, and props to take advantage of, as well as some great bonuses.
If you want to get started with mobile sports betting in Texas, you can open an account with this Texas online sports betting site. It offers great banking flexibility, a great mobile experience, and excellent customer service and support. The quality of the odds is also very competitive, so you can always count on excellent odds on any professional sport – especially the NFL and MLB.
Gambling Addiction Resources in Texas
Gambling carries a potential threat of harm, mainly caused by addiction, to the public. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) share figures that indicate nearly 500,000 people in Texas suffer from gambling addiction symptoms.
If you are worried about yourself or someone you know, the screening tool from the NCPG may be useful as it provides a way of checking gambling habits. People who need help do have options in Texas.
- You can make an appointment with a counselor at The University of Texas at Austin Counseling and Medical Center via their page on gambling. You can try a national service who may be able to connect you with local services.
- All Treatment Texas has a list of treatment centers.
- You could also look for Gamblers Anonymous meetings in Texas too.
- The National Problem Gambling Helpline are free and and confidential. Call on 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM or use the online chat function.