Rhode Island Sports Betting

Editor’s note: As of Jan. 19, 2021

The nation’s smallest state has big hopes for sports betting.

A spike in Rhode Island mobile revenues in the fall -- $1.7 million -- is fueling optimism for strong sports betting returns after a few setbacks, including a lawsuit challenging that gaming expansion has to be voter approved. A judge has since ruled otherwise.

The state also launched retail sports betting at two casinos, Twin River Casino Hotel and Twin River Tiverton Casino Hotel, both with a William Hill sportsbook.

Mobile betting didn’t launch until almost a year after the retail locations started accepted wagers, which may have had an initial impact on the state’s sports betting revenue bottom line.

But with mobile fully realized, officials feel they have a handle on the state’s growing sports betting handle.

Is sports betting currently legal in the state?

Yes

When did Rhode Island start accepting bets?

Rhode Island accepted its first wager on Nov. 26, 2018.

What is the legal age to bet on sports in Rhode Island?

18 years old. Rhode Island is one of the few states that doesn’t require bettors to be 21.

What restrictions are there on sports betting in Rhode Island … is online wagering allowed?

Online came on board on Sept. 4, 2019. Bettors can register online for an account but can only activate it by going to one of the two-state casinos.

Bets are prohibited on any collegiate sport or athletic event that takes place in Rhode Island or a sport or athletic event in which any Rhode Island college team participates regardless of where the event takes place. Not a real problem since Rhode Island doesn’t have a major college sports program.

Where can you open an account in Rhode Island?

Bettors can open accounts at the state’s two casinos. Mobile account registration is available but bettors still must head to a casino to activate the account with a valid ID.

What do I need to open an account in Rhode Island?

A valid government-issued photo ID.

What are the betting-related banking options in Rhode Island?

Bettors can fund their wagers two ways: cash or redeemable sportsbook tickets.

What about horse racing?

It is available via operators such as Bet America, TVG, Twinspires and AM Wager which all allow you to place pari-mutuel horse wagers.