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Iowa Sports Betting – How To Bet On Sports Legally In IA in 2024

Iowa
  • Online Sports Betting Available In IA Via Offshore & Domestic Sportsbooks
  • Domestic Iowa Sportsbooks Available In-Person, Online, & Via Mobile Apps
  • Legislative Movement Toward Sports Betting: Iowa Sports Betting Is Legal

Iowa became the 11th state to legalize domestic sports gambling in May 2019. Opting for brick-and-mortar, online, and mobile betting, state-regulated sportsbooks can now compete with the popular offshore sportsbooks that have been providing betting services to Iowans since the PASPA ban.

Since Iowa gambling laws have never prohibited offshore sports betting, it has been among the many states that have allowed sports betting via online sportsbooks.

Iowa launched eight domestic sportsbooks and an online sports wagering service in August of 2019, just in time for football season. Now, local gamblers in Iowa can take advantage of all legal sports betting opportunities, including offshore and domestic, online, mobile, and in-person.

Table Of Contents
    Bovada Icon

     Is Bovada Legal In Iowa?

    Yes, Iowa sports bettors can join Bovada as a member and place wagers without violating state or federal gambling laws. This is because Bovada operates legally from Costa Rica and is able to provide sports betting services over the Internet to 18+ online gamblers inside of IA. Bovada.LV has served Iowa for over a decade and continues to hold the top spot among all available sportsbooks.

    Bovada Sportsbook #1 USA Betting Site

     ✔ Pros

    • Welcome Bonus of 50% up to $1,000
    • Operating From The Legal Jurisdiction Of Costa Rica
    • Same Day Payouts with Bitcoin
    • Options to Use Venmo, Paypal with Vouchers
    • Also Offers Casino, Poker, and Horse Racing
    • Wide Selection of Sports Coverage & Wagering Options

     ✘ Cons

    • Does Not Accept Players From NJ, NV, DE, NY, or MD

    Best Sports Betting Sites in Iowa 2024

     Site NameCurrent BonusAgeU.S.Visit Site
    Top Rated #1 IconBovada Sportsbook50% Max $1,00018+USA Players Legally AcceptedVisit Site Review
    2BetUS125% Max $3,12518+USA Players Legally AcceptedVisit Site Review
    3Betonline Sportsbook50% Max $1,00018+USA Players Legally AcceptedVisit Site Review
    4sports betting logo50% Max $1,00018+USA Players Legally AcceptedVisit Site Review
    5MyBookie Sportsbook50% Max $1,00021+USA Players Legally AcceptedVisit Site Review
    6xbet logo50% Max $50021+USA Players Legally AcceptedVisit Site Review

    Is Sports Betting Legal In Iowa in 2024?

    Yes, it is. State-licensed sportsbooks that operate online and in person and mobile sports betting apps launched in Iowa back in 2019. Iowans also have access to offshore sportsbooks that are operating legally outside of the US, giving residents multiple betting options.

    Is Online Sports Betting Legal In Iowa in 2024?

    Yes! Both offshore and local sportsbooks are legal in IA, allowing local players to bet on sports using PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones across the state. Here's what Iowa bettors can access legally.

    • Domestic sports betting sites and mobile sportsbook apps
    • Offshore sports betting sites accessed through computers or mobile devices

    No Iowa gambling laws or federal regulations prohibit offshore or domestic online sportsbooks if they're operating legally. IA is one of many US sports betting states that features all types of online sports betting, making sure that local gamblers keep their business within Iowa's borders.

    Iowa Sports Betting Bills

    The Status of Iowa Sports Betting Legislation for 2024

    In Iowa’s 2023 legislative session, several sports betting bills were on the docket that included provisions for IA gaming legislation. The state has already authorized both digital and physical games and gambling operations.

    That being said, the majority of the bills proposed various additions and modifications to the existing infrastructure, including revised tax allocations, revenue distribution, cashless wagering, and licensing, among other regulatory details and issues.

    All current and future bills relevant to sports betting in Iowa that seek to expand and/or change the existing regulations will be monitored through our state-by-state bill tracker page.

    IA Sports Betting Details

    In the following section, the integral details surrounding sports betting in IA are listed for your convenience.

    Options for Legal Sports Betting in IA

    Where Can I Bet On Sports in Iowa?

    You can wager at many different gambling outlets in Iowa. There are several domestic online and retail operators currently up and running. In addition, offshore online sportsbooks operating legally within the industry, such as the ones listed on this page, also accept betting action from Iowa's sports fans.

    • Is Bovada legal in Iowa? Yes, Bovada is legal in Iowa because there are no laws that make offshore betting a crime. Bovada Sportsbook's sportsbook can be accessed online by 18+ players in IA because of their operation from within an international gambling jurisdiction. Visit Bovada Now.
    • Is MyBookie legal in Iowa? Yes. MyBookie holds all the appropriate licensing credentials required to accept members from inside of Iowa for sports betting. No state or federal laws are being broken by placing a bet online with MyBookie.AG in IA. Visit MyBookie Now.
    • Is BetOnline legal in Iowa? BetOnline is legal to use in Iowa and has served the state for several years. Bet on the NFL, NBA, NHL, College Football, and more, all from the comfort of your Iowa home using BetOnline.AG's robust sportsbook site. Visit BetOnline Now.
    • Is XBet legal in Iowa? Yes. Xbet is a licensed online sportsbook and is regulated offshore. They are a sister site to MyBookie and provide superior sports betting services to gamblers in IA. Visit XBet Now.
    • Is BetUS legal in Iowa? BetUS Sportsbook is another legal option for gambling on pro and college games in Iowa. They offer a large variety of entertainment betting options to Iowa-based gamblers. Visit BetUS Now.

    Iowa Sports Betting Apps

    Iowa launched its mobile state-regulated betting service alongside its domestic sportsbooks in August 2019. In addition, area players can legally bet on their smartphones or tablets through the mobile sportsbook apps offered by the online casinos you see listed on this page.  Each of them features a website that is optimized for mobile use, bringing all the features from their desktop sportsbook to your fingertips.

    Unlike domestic sportsbook applications, Iowa sports betting apps that operate offshore don’t need to be downloaded. These are mobile-optimized, web-based applications that only need a connection to the internet for access from anywhere inside the state. Because they are web-based, your account is always perfectly synced, whether on a desktop, smartphone, or tablet. Click any of the mobile icons below to check out our preferred mobile sportsbooks.

    iPhone Sports Betting in IA

    iPhone sports betting in IA can be done with or without a download. Offshore sportsbook apps only require a mobile web browser to use, but domestic options must be downloaded and stored on iPhones and iPads. We prefer offshore sports betting apps because they can be pulled up faster, offer a greater variety of odds, and accept cryptocurrency deposits. 

    Android Sports Betting In IA

    If you use a Samsung or Google Pixel-branded smartphone in Iowa, offshore and domestic sportsbook apps are available. International sports betting sites only need to be clicked on using a mobile browser, but domestic applications need to be downloaded to Android devices. An age of 21 is required for domestic gambling apps while Iowa sports betting can begin as young as 18 using offshore options. 

    Best IA Sportsbook Promo Codes for March 2024

    When Iowa sports bettors make a deposit into their accounts, they can opt to accept a sportsbook bonus cash offer. These sports betting promo codes can be entered when making a deposit that adds a percentage of the transaction total back into bankrolls for use in the sportsbook.

    As long as all terms are met, the cash can be withdrawn at any time. These sportsbook promos are offered for all first-time deposits and are usually extended for additional uploads. For the highest sportsbook bonus dollars available, make your deposits with Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

    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 Iowa

    Cryptocurrency Sportsbook Deposits

    The only way to use Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to bet on sports in Iowa is to become a member with an offshore sportsbook site like the ones mentioned here. Domestic books only accept traditional banking methods like cash and credit cards.

    BTC deposits are the most commonly accepted at online international sportsbooks, but most major altcoins are supported by the sites we recommend to Iowans. Sportsbook bonuses are also higher when using cryptocurrency to upload funds.

    Person-To-Person Sportsbook Deposits

    While offshore sportsbooks do not accept deposits using popular transfer companies like PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Cash App, Zelle, and others, they can be used to upload funds using P2P vendors. Some international sports betting sites have these person-to-person options built in, while most will require accessing these services yourself and having them upload funds on your behalf.

    Credit/Debit Card Sportsbook Deposits

    Even in 2024, the most popular sports betting deposit method is still cred and debit cards like Visa, Discover, American Express, and MasterCard. We do not recommend using credit or debit cards because there are fees attached by the banking institution and the offshore sportsbook. Find out how to get the fastest sportsbook payouts in our sports betting banking guide.

    IA Online Sportsbooks: Offshore VS Local

    Offshore IA Sports Betting

    • Open To 18 & Up Gamblers
    • Accepts Crypto & USD
    • Political Betting - Yes
    • Entertainment Betting - Yes
    • Download-Free Mobile App

    Domestic IA Sports Betting

    • Limited To 21 & Older Bettors
    • Bitcoin Betting Not Allowed
    • Political Betting - No
    • Entertainment Bets - No
    • Mobile Apps Require Download

    How To Bet On Sports In Iowa

    Now that you've decided which online sportsbook(s) you want to become a member with, you can create a membership, deposit funds, and place a wager within a few minutes. This process is detailed in the following steps so that Iowa sports betting can commence as quickly as possible.

    1. Click on any offshore sportsbook link we've included in this guide using a web-ready device in Iowa
    2. Click on the "Join" button that can be found at the top of any page within each sportsbook site
    3. Enter information into each field
    4. Verify your sportsbook account using your smartphone or email address
    5. Create a secure sportsbook login
    6. Make your first deposit (we strongly suggest using cryptocurrency!)
    7. Legal IA sports betting can now take place within the online sportsbook
    8. Locate the game line, prop bet, or futures that interest you and place a wager. Clicking on the spread or odds will add it to your bet slip.
    9. Enter the amount of money you want to bet and click submit
    10. Wait for the game to end and collect your winnings!

    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 IA

    Active Iowa Betting Sports For March 2024?

    The following section includes what current sports are taking action at online sportsbooks right now and in the coming weeks. Of course, this is just a taste of what's being offered at our top sportsbook sites - you'll have to check them out for yourself to see all the sports and entertainment odds that are on the boards.

    • March Madness Betting
    • NBA Betting
    • UFC 300 Betting
    • Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Betting
    • 2024 Presidential Election Betting
    • NHL Betting
    • NASCAR Betting
    • WrestleMania Betting
    • Pro Tennis Betting
    • MLS Betting

    Biggest Sports Betting Cities In IA

    Sports Betting In Iowa City, IA

    You will find Kinnick Stadium, home to the Iowa Hawkeyes, in Iowa City, IA. The Hawkeyes are a Big 10 school in the Western division and have notable football and basketball programs. The Big 10 has some tough competition, but the Hawkeyes are towards the better end of the spectrum in terms of strength.

    You can find betting lines on the Hawkeyes through any of the offshore sportsbooks listed in this guide.

    Sports Betting In Ames, IA

    Ames serves as the home of the Iowa State Cyclones. The Cyclones play in the Big 12 Conference, though, unfortunately, are not much of a force. Their basketball program has fared better in the past, but locals are supportive of any team in the athletic program.

    Place a wager on the Cyclones through one of our recommended sportsbooks!

    Local Sports Teams To Bet On

    The focus in Iowa is NCAA sports, especially college football. Here are the local colleges and universities, their conferences, and the sports that they specialize in.

    Iowa College Sports Teams

    • Iowa Hawkeyes - Big Ten Conference (NCAAF/NCAAB)
    • Iowa State Cyclones - Big 12 (NCAAF/NCAAB/Baseball)
    • Drake Bulldogs - Missouri Valley Conference (NCAAB/NCAAF)
    • Northern Iowa Panthers - Missouri Valley Conference (NCAAF/NCAAB)

    Regional Major Sports Hubs

    • Minneapolis, MN
    • Kansas City, MO
    • Chicago, IL

    Local Sportsbooks in Iowa

    • BetFred Sportsbook: Located in Larchwood, Iowa, at the Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort, bets can be placed in-person or at 24-hour kiosks.
    • Caesars Sportsbook: Praire Meadows Racetrack hosts Ceasars Sportsbook in Altoona, IA.
    • Elite Sportsbook: This sportsbook is located in Riverside, Iowa, at the Riverside Casino & Golf Resort eClub. There is also an Elite Sportsbook located inside Grand Falls Resort eClub in Larchwood, IA.
    • FanDuel Sportsbook: Northwood, IA, is home to the Diamond Jo Worth Casino, which houses FanDuel Sportsbook.
    • PointsBet Sportsbook: Located in Catfish Bend Casino and Fun City Resort in Burlington, Iowa. They are open until 8 PM every night of the week.

    Nearby States with Online Sports Betting

    • Illinois Sports Betting: IL allows for domestic sports betting via mobile, online, and in-person, and also permits offshore sportsbooks to accept customers.
    • Kansas Sports Betting: All forms of sports betting are allowable in KS, including online, mobile, retail, and offshore.
    • Nebraska Sports Betting: In-person sports gambling in Nebraska has been made legal, but retail locations have yet to debut.
    • Sports Betting In Wisconsin: Two casinos host in-person sportsbooks as of March 2024, but domestic sports betting sites and apps have not yet been legalized.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa Sports Betting

    Betting On Football In Iowa In 2024

    How To Bet On College Football in Iowa

    Every game on the Iowa State Cyclones and Iowa Hawkeyes schedule can be bet on at domestic and offshore college football sportsbook sites. There are also year-round CFP and Conference futures that take action on the eventual National Champion and Big Ten or Big 12 winners. The finest college football betting sites in business today are the offshore variety, as they accept members as young as 18 and allow for Bitcoin betting on NCAAF.

    How To Bet On NFL Football In Iowa

    No matter where you stand in the United States, NFL football is the most popular gambling and viewing sport. The same is true in Iowa, and betting on the NFL can be done using state-licensed sportsbooks (online, mobile, in-person) or through offshore NFL betting sites, such as the ones you see listed on this page. 

    How To Bet On The Super Bowl in Iowa in 2024

    Gamblers in Iowa can bet on Super Bowl odds by doing business with an offshore sportsbook site or a domestic gambling venue. 

    Domestic - Online, mobile, and brick-and-mortar sportsbooks are open for business in IA. All of them will offer Super Bowl betting odds to 21+ patrons. 

    Offshore - International NFL gambling sites offer Super Bowl betting lines to players in Iowa. They are legal to use as young as 18 in IA and will feature many more Super Bowl prop bets than domestic options. 

    Legislative Timeline of Sports Betting in IA

    • January 1, 2021 – The state no longer requires registration for accessing domestic sportsbook sites and apps.

    • August 15, 2019 – Online, mobile, and retail sports betting simultaneously launches in Iowa. 

    • May 13, 2019 - A legal sports betting bill, Senate File 617, is signed into law by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds.

    Additional Iowa Gambling Resources

    Compulsive gambling tendencies can show up unexpectedly. We urge all sports bettors to gamble responsibly.  For those who find themselves or someone they know struggling with gambling addiction, there is help available.  Here is a valuable resource specific to Iowa where individuals can find assistance.

    Iowa News