Illinois Sports Betting Laws
Updated January 20, 2026
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Get My Free BetsFree forever — No credit card neededYes, Sports Betting is Legal in Illinois
Sports betting is fully legal in Illinois. Both online and retail sportsbooks are available to residents 21+. 10 licensed operators currently serve Illinois bettors.
Current Legal Status
| Online Betting | Legal |
| Retail Sportsbooks | Legal |
| Minimum Age | 21+ |
| College Sports Betting | Allowed Note: In-state college bets must be placed at retail locations |
| Launch Date | March 8, 2020 |
| Operator Tax Rate | 35% |
Licensed Sportsbooks in Illinois
The following 10 sportsbooks are licensed to operate in Illinois:
Key Regulations & Restrictions
- Age Requirement
You must be 21 years or older to place sports bets in Illinois.
- College Sports
Betting on college sports is allowed in Illinois. Restriction: In-state college bets must be placed at retail locations
- Location Requirement
You must be physically located within Illinois state borders to place online bets. Geolocation technology is used to verify your location.
- Additional Information
Illinois has one of the highest sports betting handles in the US. Progressive tax rate introduced in 2025 ranging from mid-30s to 40%.
Regulatory Authority
Sports betting in Illinois is regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board.
Visit Illinois Gaming BoardLegal Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal advice. Gambling laws vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change without notice. We make no representations or warranties about the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information.
Before engaging in any sports betting activity:
- Verify that sports betting is legal in your jurisdiction
- Confirm you meet the minimum age requirement (typically 21+)
- Only use licensed, regulated sportsbooks
- Gamble responsibly and within your means
Last updated: 2026-01-21 • Official Illinois regulatory website
Sources & Additional Information
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Quick Facts: IL
Status
Online & Retail LegalPopulation
12.6M
Licensed Operators
10
Legal Since
2020
Last Updated
2026-01-21