Guide to Legal Illinois Sports Betting in 2025
- Online Sports Betting Available In IL Via Offshore & Domestic Sportsbooks
- Domestic Illinois Sportsbooks Available Via In-Person, Mobile Apps, & Online
Illinois sports betting is available through multiple avenues, and was one of the earlier markets to take shape after PASPA'S fall. As part of a state funding bill that includes an expansion of gambling, the IL House and Senate passed legislation on June 2, 2019, the last day of the legislative session, to legalize sport betting in-person at the state's casinos, racetracks, arenas, and stadiums - such as Wrigley Field.
The legislation also allows online and mobile app-based sportsbooks to operate inside state lines. Governor J.B. Prizker publicly stated his strong support for the legislation and signed the bill into law on June 28, 2019.
Illinois launched state-licensed sportsbooks Monday, March 9 in 2020 at Rivers Casino in Des Plaines. Additionally, the state could be poised to become the sports betting capital of the Midwest and is one of the largest markets - at 12.7 million residents - to legalize in-state sportsbooks in the United States thus far.
Between the new state-regulated online and in-person wagering opportunities and the Illinois online sportsbook sites and apps operating offshore that have legally offered services to bettors in the state for decades, IL residents have no shortage of options when it comes to placing legal wagers.
Is Bovada Legal In Illinois?
Yes, sports bettors that are 18 and over and located in IL can bet at Bovada online legally. Bovada.LV possesses an eGaming license from the country of Curacao and resides in Costa Rica, a regulated gambling district. Because of this status, Bovada Sportsbook can legally accept 18+ bettors in Illinois and allow them to gamble on pro and college games online.
Bovada Sportsbook #1 USA Betting Site
✔ Pros
- Welcome Bonus of 50% up to $1,000
- Operates From Legal Jurisdiction Of Costa Rica
- Same Day Payouts with Bitcoin
- Options to Use Venmo, Paypal with Vouchers
- Also Offers Casino, Poker, Horse Racing
- Wide Selection of Sports Coverage & Wagering Options
✘ Cons
- Limited Crypto Banking Options
- Does Not Accept Players From AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, KS, LA, MA, MD, MI, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, VT, or WV.
Best Sportsbooks In Illinois For 2025
Below is a list of the best available sports betting options offered through trusted offshore sportsbooks. Each one of these sportsbooks accepts Illinois players and has been doing so for years.
These brands also provide mobile sportsbook apps and live betting capabilities. For readers looking for more information about these online sportsbooks, you can also check out our sportsbook reviews written by industry professionals who are also devoted gambling enthusiasts.
| Site Name | Current Bonus | Age | U.S. | Visit Site | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  | 50% Max $1,000 | 18+ |  | Visit Site Review |
| 2 |  | 125% Max $3,125 | 18+ | | Visit Site Review |
| 3 |  | 50% Max $250 | 18+ | | Visit Site Review |
| 4 |  | 50% Max $1,000 | 21+ | | Visit Site Review |
| 5 |  | 25% Max $500 | 18+ | | Visit Site Review |
| 6 |  | 50% Max $250 | 18+ | | Visit Site Review |
| 7 |  | 50% Max $200 | 21+ | | Visit Site Review |
Is Sports Betting Legal In Illinois 2025?
Now that governor Pritzker has signed SB690 into law, sports betting is legal in Illinois in more ways than one. Prior to the bill's passage, Illinois residents had only been able to legally bet through online sportsbooks operating offshore.
There were and still are no state laws prohibiting online offshore sportsbooks. The laws recently authorizing state-regulated sports betting simply expand the range of betting options available to fans in IL.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal In Illinois in 2025?
Yes! Bettors have two options for legal online sportsbooks in the state of IL:
- State-regulated online/mobile sportsbooks
- Legitimate offshore sportsbooks sites
The Illinois State Legislature has yet to pass any laws forbidding local gamblers from accessing, joining, and placing bets with an international online sportsbook. The sites listed here represent the best options for online sports betting in Illinois, and they operate offshore with appropriate licensing credentials.
Illinois is one of many legal sports betting states that also permits domestic betting sites to offer their services to players that are 21 or older. Many of the offshore books listed here accept members and allow them to legally bet at the age of 18.
Illinois Sports Betting Bills
The Status of Illinois Sports Betting Legislation for 2025
Now that online, mobile, and in-person domestic sports betting is legal in IL, any further sportsbook-related legislation will involve rulemaking or further regulation. Should any considerable Illinois sportsbook legislation arise and spark debate, we'll report on it here.
You can keep up with IL sports betting legislation using our bill tracker page.
IL Sports Betting Details
All of the most pertinent details concerning sports betting in IL have been collected below. This includes options for betting at local gambling venues and with the offshore sportsbook sites that we prefer.
Options for Legal Sports Betting in IL
Where Can I Bet On Sports In Illinois?
- Online sportsbooks operating offshore legally have their doors open to IL residents 24/7. Illinois has also authorized state-regulated betting options for brick-and-mortar, online, and mobile sportsbook gambling.
Where Can I Bet on Sports Online in IL Without Breaking the Law?
- The offshore sportsbooks we recommend are unquestionably operating legally within the international sports betting market, governed by a legitimate jurisdiction. The table above includes a link to an in-depth review of these sportsbooks. Online sportsbooks are also permitted domestically in IL to 21 and older patrons.
- Is Bovada legal in Illinois? Yes. Current IL laws do not prohibit offshore sportsbooks like Bovada, making it perfectly legal to join as a member and bet on games. The Bovada Sportsbook operates legitimately with licensing from the Curacao government. Visit Bovada Now.
- Is MyBookie legal in Illinois? Sure is. MyBookie is also an offshore sportsbook and ranks among are best, MyBookie.AG possesses the appropriate licensing to accept IL-based gamblers and delivers a secure online environment. Visit MyBookie Now.
- Is BetOnline legal in Illinois? Uh huh! With over a decade of top-rated sports betting services offered to the IL region, BetOnline.AG is a name that commands respect. If you're in IL, you can gamble at BetOnline without breaking state or federal gambling laws. Visit BetOnline Now.
- Is XBet legal in Illinois? Totally! Xbet.AG is a sister site to MyBookie and operates using the same licensing credentials with reliable sports betting services. Their options are similar to MyBookie but differ enough to make them also worthy of membership. Visit XBet Now.
- Is BetUS legal in Illinois? They sure are. BetUS.com.pa has emerged over the last few years as a leading Illinois sportsbook, with unique odds that you won't find anywhere else on the web. Check them out today! Visit BetUS Now.
Illinois Sports Betting Apps
IL is one of the many states that offers mobile sports betting from domestic and offshore operators. While domestic sports betting apps in IL need to be downloaded to devices, the same cannot be said for mobile gambling at offshore sportsbooks.
In IL, bettors must be 21 or older to download sportsbook apps and place a mobile wager. Offshore sportsbooks accept members as young as 18 - but some require a minimum age of 21.
iPhones, iPads, Android smartphones, and tablets can click on any sportsbook link on this page for instant mobile access to the latest pro and college betting odds. Browsing does not require joining, so check each one of them out before making your final decision.
iPhone Sports Betting in IL
iPhone sports betting in IL is just a click away if you use a mobile web browser to access any sportsbook listed here. Domestic betting apps are also available for Apple devices but need to be downloaded permanently. Apple sportsbook apps in Illinois require a minimum age of 21 to utilize.
Android Sports Betting In IL
If you are in Illinois and use a Google Pixel, Samsung, or any other Android-powered smartphone or tablet, you can bet on sports using local or international sportsbook apps. Domestic sports betting on an Android requires downloading software, but offshore sportsbook applications can be pulled up in web browsers instantly.
Best IL Sportsbook Promo Codes for May 2025
When making a deposit at any of our favorite sportsbook sites, members can enter sports betting promo codes that add bonus cash to their accounts. These options sportsbook promos are extended to new members and are usually available for future deposits.
In order to make the sportsbook promo cash withdrawable, account holders will need to complete all terms attached. This usually involves betting through the cash a few times but read through the conditions to make sure you can finish them in time.
Once all conditions are complete, you can request a payout of the bonus cash and enjoy your winnings. Here's some of the best promotions being offered online in IL right now:
- Bovada Sign Up Bonus: 50% Deposit Match Up To $1000 – Use Bovada Bonus Code BVD1000
- MyBookie Sign Up Bonus: 100% Deposit Match Up To $1000 – Use MyBookie Promo Code MYB100
- BetUS Sign Up Bonus: 125% Deposit Match Up To $3,125 – Use BetUS Promo Code Join125
- Betonline Sign Up Bonus: 50% Deposit Match Up To $1000 - Use Betonline Promo Code BET1000
PRO TIP: To maximize the sportsbook bonuses and promotions at these sportsbooks, use crypto for your deposits! You'll get more bang for your buck with larger bonuses as well as access to additional reload bonuses.
Anderson A. - Sports Bettor Since 2014
Best Online Sportsbook Payment Methods Available in Illinois
Cryptocurrency Deposits At IL Sportsbooks
You'll not find any local sportsbooks in IL that accept cryptocurrency bets, but all of the offshore sports gambling sites that we feature here do. Bitcoin and other popular altcoins can be deposited and withdrawn safely and securely without any concerns about canceled transactions. Crypto is also available for same-day payouts in most cases.
Person-To-Person Sportsbook Deposits & WIthdrawals
Some of our favorite offshore sports betting sites let Illinoians purchase prepaid sportsbook vouchers through P2P vendors like MatchPay. Some sites, Bovada, for instance, feature MatchPay built in, while others require its use separately to buy and sell vouchers.
Selling vouchers is the only same-day method for a withdrawal in USD. Because P2P sites accept all sorts of payment options, it allows for depositing using PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, Google Pay, and more.
Credit And Debit Card Sportsbook Banking
Most major brands of credit and debit cards are accepted at offshore sportsbook sites, but there is the potential for deposits to be disrupted if a banking institution believes the transfer is for gambling.
There are also fees attached to using credit/debit cards. Gamblers cannot withdraw winnings using CCs because funds cannot flow backward for sportsbook payouts.
IL Online Sportsbooks: Offshore VS Local
Offshore
Domestic
How To Bet On Sports In Illinois
First, we suggest having a look at each sportsbook recommended here by clicking on the provided link and touring their website. Once finished, think about creating an account with several of them so that the odds can be shopped for each game.
Trapping yourself into one solitary betting line restrains not only your options but your cash-winning potential. Once you've figured out which offshore sportsbook sites you intend to join, follow these instructions to complete your journey.
- Locate the join or join now icon at the top of any page inside the sportsbook site and press it
- Complete your account profile and create a secure sportsbook login
- Verify your account using your phone or email address
- Enter sports betting funds into your account and have a look through the various bonus cash promos before finalizing the deposit
- Once the deposit is verified and funds are in your account, click on the sportsbook tab of the gambling site
- Locate the sport or league you want to bet on (ex., NFL or tennis) and click on that tab.
- Find the game or match you want to wager on and click directly on the odds, point spread, or total and it will pull up your bet slip and calculator
- Enter the amount of money you want to bet and click submit
- Watch the game or match and collect your winnings when your bet is a success
Pro Tip: Consider joining two or more sportsbooks so that the lines can be shopped to your advantage before the game, match, or event.
Marcus W. - Sports Bettor Since 2011
Popular Sports To Bet On In IL
Active Illinois Betting Sports For May 2025?
The below section includes a list of betting sports that are active and taking action right now at the sportsbooks we recommend for Illinois-based gamblers.
- UFC 316
- NHL Playoffs
- NBA Playoffs
- PGA Golf
- WNBA
- Belmont Stakes
- NASCAR
- MLB
- UFL Football
- The French Open
Biggest Sports Betting Cities In IL
Sports Betting In Chicago, IL
Chicago is the largest metropolitan area in the state and home to 5 major professional franchises. With the Chicago Bulls (NBA), Chicago Cubs (MLB), Chicago White Sox (MLB), Chicago Bears (NFL), and Chicago Blackhawks, the city is ripe for betting action.
Although Illinois has legalized mobile and domestic sportsbooks, legal sports betting in Chicago is still in dispute, and there is a current ban on allowing for venues inside the city's stadiums even though state law allows for them.
Local Sports Teams To Bet On
Illinois borders the Great Lakes and enjoys all major sports, including NFL Football, NBA Basketball, NHL Hockey, and of course, College Football and Basketball.
Illinois Professional Teams
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Fire FC (MLS)
Illinois College Teams
- The University of Illinois Fighting Illini (NCAAF/NCAAB)
- Illinois State Redbirds (NCAAF/NCAAB)
- Northwestern Wildcats (NCAAF/NCAAB)
Local Sportsbooks in Illinois
- Rivers Casino (Des Plaines) - BetRivers Sportsbook
- Casino Queen (St. Louis) - DraftKings Sportsbook
- Argosy Casino (Alton) - Barstool Sportsbook
- Grand Victoria Casino (Elgin) - Caesars Sportsbook
- Hollywood Casino (Aurora) - Barstool Sportsbook
- Hollywood Casino (Joliet) - Barstool Sportsbook
- Par-A-Dice Casino (East Peoria) - FanDuel Sportsbook
- Hawthorne Race Course (Cicero) - PointsBet Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing (Collinsville) - FanDuel Sportsbook (formerly Fairmount Park Racetrack)
Nearby States with Online Sports Betting
Since IL already has all forms of domestic and offshore sportsbooks available to local patrons, there's no real reason to travel to a neighboring state to exploit their gambling options. The only bordering state offering an advantage over IL is Kentucky, and that is because they allow domestic sports betting at the age of 18.
KY is convenient to players aged 18 to 20 that are located in the southernmost part of IL. The drive is way too long for those located near Chicago or the Great Lakes region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Sports Betting
Betting On Football In Illinois In 2025?
How To Bet On College Football in Illinois
Whether you want to lay some action on the Fighting Illini or any other NCAAF team in the country, the best college football betting sites operate offshore and are linked to here on this page. International sports betting sites provide more access for Illinois-based players that want to wager on college football games, the CFP, bowl games, and the National Championship.
How To Bet On NFL Football In Illinois
The Chicago Bears of the National Football League are the most popular NFL team in the state, and betting on them can be done at both domestic and offshore venues. NFL betting can occur at 21 or older at domestic sportsbooks, but some offshore sites allow for membership at 18. Wagering on all 32 NFL franchises can be performed from the preseason through the Super Bowl, and we've listed the best sites for doing so here on this page.
How To Bet On The Super Bowl in Illinois
Gamblers inside of IL can bet on Super Bowl odds using the services of either an offshore or a domestic sportsbook.
Domestic - Betting on the Super Bowl can be done at any domestic sportsbook in the state as long as you have reached the age of 21. SB betting can be done at brick-and-mortar sportsbook locations or remotely using domestic online or mobile sports betting apps.
Offshore - The sites listed here are offshore sportsbook sites, and they allow for betting on Super Bowl odds from anywhere inside Illinois' borders. International betting sites provide a greater number of Super Bowl prop bets and accept members at the age of 18 in some cases.
Illinois Legislative Resources
Legislative Timeline of Sports Betting In IL
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March 5, 2022 – In-person registration is now no longer required for sports betting in IL. Registration can now occur online.
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March 9, 2020 – BetRivers Sportsbook opens for business and accepts the first domestic wager in Illinois.
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June 28, 2019 – Governor Pritzker signs the Sports Wagering Act into law, permitting retail, online, and mobile sportsbooks to operate in IL.
IL Responsible Gambling Resources
We acknowledge the fact that if not played responsibly, gambling on sports can become addictive and lead to negative effects on your financial situation. We encourage everyone in Illinois to play in a responsible manner, but if you feel that your gambling habits have gotten out of hand, please contact the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling for immediate assistance.
