Welcome to the Props.com guide to finding Sites Like Bovada. For those who don’t know, Bovada is a popular online betting site that serves American sports bettors despite being located outside of the US. It doesn’t hold an online gambling license in any American state and operates as an unregulated entity.

Bovada does not have to adhere to any laws or regulations within the US sports betting industry. You can only expect safe mobile betting at legal sites like Bovada that possess state licensing.

What are the main differences between Bovada and legal sports betting sites? Bovada holds a license in Curaçao, a constituent country of the Netherlands. But again, Bovada is not operating under any US jurisdiction—state or federal. According to TrustPilot, Curaçao doesn’t have a reputation for being tough on rogue online gambling sites.

Therefore, the Bovada casino and sportsbook operation doesn’t have to worry about strict regulations. It can experience issues with timely payouts and not deal with any consequences. This gambling site is also the judge and juror regarding disputes with players, with no third-party involvement.

Best Legal Sportsbooks & DFS Sites In Your State

Top Sportsbooks in All States

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Help is available for problem gambling. Call (888) 789-7777 or visit ccpg.org (CT). 18+ (19+ AL/NE, 21+ AZ/MA/VA). Valid only where Pick6 operates, see dkng.co/pick6states. Void in NY, ONT, and where prohibited. Eligibility restrictions apply. 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ first Pick Set to receive max. $50 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Picks that expire in 14 days (336 hours). Ends 10/13/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Terms: pick6.draftkings.com/promos. Sponsored by DraftKings. See more…
Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. See assets.underdogfantasy.com/web/PlayandGetTerms_DFS_.html for details. Offer not valid in MD, MI, OH, and PA. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org; NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369) See more…

How Legal Online Sportsbooks Differ from Sites Like Bovada

Legal online sportsbooks operate under state gambling boards and are pursuant to local laws and regulations. They must treat sports bettors fairly, properly handle customer funds, and make timely payouts. Otherwise, they risk losing their license in one or more states.

The best solution is to place bets with legal sites like Bovada, rather than Bovada itself. But which licensed online betting sites should you choose? We will discuss the 5 best legal US online sportsbooks, including their bonuses, availability, features, and more. This guide also covers daily fantasy sports (DFS) sites, which are great Bovada alternatives in states without legal online sports betting.

Best Legal Sports Betting Sites

The federal government gives every state the right to legalize sports gambling. Thirty-nine states have legalized online and/or retail sportsbooks to date. Any betting site that wishes to operate legally must obtain licensing from one or more of these states.

Bovada has not gained licensing from a single state and doesn’t need to follow any US laws. It could potentially stiff players out of withdrawals and face no recourse. This unpleasant scenario is why you should consider sites like Bovada that are actually legal. Speaking of which, here are the 5 licensed sports gambling sites that we’ll discuss:

  • DraftKings
  • FanDuel
  • BetMGM
  • Caesars
  • BetRivers

Best Online Sports Betting Bonuses

The sports gambling site reviews below will cover sign-up bonuses (a.k.a., welcome bonuses). A sign-up bonus offers you a reward for registering and placing your first deposit. For example, you might get $200 in bonus bets as a first deposit bonus. You may need to use a promo code when registering to qualify for certain welcome bonuses. Check our site regularly to find relevant and updated promo codes for the best US sports betting bonuses.

DraftKings Sportsbook

Originating in daily fantasy sports, DraftKings has become one of the best legal sports betting sites. It stands out thanks to its features and promotions.

The DraftKings Sportsbook features are among the industry’s most unique, including beginner tutorials, betting pools, and social elements. The latter let you network with friends, share picks, and win or lose together. Promos include no sweat bets, reload bonuses, parlay boosts, odds boosts, and more.

If you are into gaming sites, you’ll also find one of the best online casinos at DK. The DraftKings online casino provides many slot games and live dealer games.

DraftKings Sportsbook States

DraftKings offers legal sports wagering and online casino games in the following states:

  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan (betting & casino)
  • Mississippi (retail only)
  • Missouri
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey (betting & casino)
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania (betting & casino)
  • Tennessee
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington (retail only)
  • Washington DC
  • West Virginia (betting & casino)
  • Wisconsin (retail only)
  • Wyoming

Learn more about which states DraftKings is legal in with this DraftKings Sportsbook States guide.

How Do I Get The DraftKings Welcome Bonus?

The steps to claiming the DraftKings welcome offer are as follows:

  1. Visit DraftKings through a “Claim Offer” link on this page.
  2. Select the “Sign Up” option.
  3. Fill in your username, password, and email.
  4. Enter your name, email, phone number, etc. to compete the account.
  5. Visit the cashier and deposit at least $5.
  6. Place your first bet worth $5 or more.

Why DraftKings

DraftKings is one of the most well-rounded betting sites on the market. It offers competitive odds, plenty of markets, several promos, and unique features. The latter is what truly sets DraftKings apart thanks to betting pools and social networking. As covered earlier, you can also enjoy one of the top online casinos here.

Be sure to check out the full roster of DraftKings bonus offers in our DraftKings Promo guide, and also take a look at our DraftKings Sportsbook Review.

FanDuel Sportsbook

FanDuel shares multiple similarities with DraftKings. It too started in the DFS industry before rising to prominence in online sports gambling.

This online bookmaker has built a betting dynasty through inventive promotions and an easy-to-use app. FanDuel typically runs multiple promos at at time, including odds boosts and a referral bonus. Its app has few peers thanks to a user-friendly setup and clearly defined sections.

FanDuel features other types of online gambling too, including a casino, racebook, and DFS. That said, you won’t be at a loss regarding betting options here.

FanDuel Sportsbook States

You can enjoy the FanDuel experience in the following states:

  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan (betting & casino)
  • Mississippi (retail only)
  • Missouri
  • New Jersey (betting & casino)
  • Nevada (retail only)
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Puerto Rico
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania (betting & casino)
  • Tennessee
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington (retail only)
  • Washington, DC
  • West Virginia (betting & casino)
  • Wyoming

Is FanDuel legal in your state? Find out with this Legal FanDuel States guide.

How Do I Get The FanDuel Welcome Bonus?

Here are the steps to getting the FanDuel welcome offer:

  1. Select a Claim Offer link on this page.
  2. Choose “Join Now” on FanDuel’s landing page.
  3. Pick your state from the available options.
  4. Register by entering all requested info (e.g., email, name, password, address).
  5. Deposit $10 or more.
  6. Place your first bet worth at least $5.

Why FanDuel

FanDuel is one of the top mobile sportsbooks regarding promotions. It starts you off with a Bet $5, Get $300 if your bet wins offer, then proceeds to offer no-sweat bets, odds boosts, profit boosts, and sports TV subscriptions. This betting site also provides one of the most user-friendly apps. You can quickly find your way around the FanDuel app, locating betting lines, promos, and deposit methods in no time.

New Players Only, Must be 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Must be Present in Legal State. Full T&Cs Apply. Please Play Responsibly. See more…

Take a look at our FanDuel Sportsbook Review.

BetMGM

BetMGM is the most available betting site, running in many states plus D.C, Ontario, and Puerto Rico. Therefore, you’ll have the best chance of finding this bookmaker in your jurisdiction.

You can qualify for a massive “$1,500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your first bet doesn’t win” welcome bonus when signing up at BetMGM. This offer provides a second chance bet worth up to $1,500. Other common promos here include bonus bets, prize pools, and odds boosts. The BetMGM Rewards program is another perk to wagering here.

This sportsbook has a nice combination of live betting and live streaming. You can watch games through BetMGM’s streams and place live wagers accordingly.

BetMGM Sportsbook States

You will find BetMGM available in the following states:

  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan (betting & casino)
  • Mississippi (retail only)
  • New Jersey (betting & casino)
  • Nevada
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania (betting & casino)
  • Puerto Rico
  • Tennessee
  • Virginia
  • Washington D.C.
  • West Virginia (betting & casino)
  • Wyoming

How Do I Get The BetMGM Welcome Bonus?

You can pick up the BetMGM welcome offer as follows:

  1. Choose a “Claim Offer” prompt on this page.
  2. Select the Register option.
  3. Enter your email (or sign in through PayPal or Yahoo).
  4. Fill out the registration form.
  5. Provide answers to two security questions.
  6. Deposit at least $10.
  7. Place your first bet worth $10 or more.
  8. You’ll collect a bonus bet matching in value if you lose.

Why BetMGM

BetMGM has grown faster than any other US betting site and is available in 20 states. Its growth hinges on a well-rounded experience that includes plenty of markets and live betting opportunities. You’ll never be at a loss when looking for wagering options here. You can also expect regular promotions and loyalty rewards at BetMGM. This bookmaker even has a poker room where you can play poker games like Texas Hold’em and Omaha.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US). Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. This promotional offer is not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico. See more…

Take a look at our BetMGM Promo Code Guide and BetMGM Sportsbook Review.

Caesars Sportsbook

Backed by the famed Caesars Entertainment, this betting site needs little introduction. The Caesars online sportsbook is one of the best sites like Bovada for multiple reasons.

Caesars also stands out for its features, including live betting, live streaming, a top-notch loyalty program, and many banking options.

Aside from betting, you can also play many casino games at Caesars. The Caesars online casino offers more slots and live dealer tables than most other casinos.

Caesars Sportsbook States

As seen below, Caesars online is available in 18 states:

  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan (betting & casino)
  • Nevada
  • New Jersey (betting & casino)
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania (betting & casino)
  • Tennessee
  • Virginia
  • Washington (retail only)
  • Washington D.C.
  • West Virginia (betting & casino)
  • Wyoming

How Do I Get The Caesars Sportsbook Welcome Bonus?

You can start gambling and qualify for the Caesars welcome promo as follows:

  1. Visit this sportsbook via one of our Claim Offer links.
  2. Select “Get Started” to begin registration.
  3. Enter your email (the promo code should automatically be in place).
  4. Complete the rest of the sign-up process.
  5. Choose one of the banking methods and make a deposit.
  6. Make your first bet.

Why Caesars Sportsbook

Caesars is a prestigious online sportsbook with a great brand backing it. You can have complete confidence when depositing and wagering here. Caesars also provides plenty of quality features, bonuses, generous betting limits, and VIP rewards. Regarding the latter, the Caesars Rewards program is one of the best in the business.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. This promotional offer is not available in Mississippi, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico. See more…

For more on this book, check out our Caesars Sportsbook Review.

BetRivers

Owned by Rush Street Interactive, BetRivers has experienced a steady climb to becoming one of the best sites like Bovada. It offers a large selection of markets, typically featuring 18-20 sports at any given time.

This betting site also boasts more promotions than other US online sportsbooks. We count a dozen promos at the time of writing. By comparison, other sites only offer 2-4 promotions on average. Some deals here include parlay insurance, 50% matched bets, Soccer Bet & Get, and weekly win specials.

BetRivers has an online casino where you can play live dealer games, slots, blackjack, etc. Therefore, you can look forward to more beyond just sports wagering.

BetRivers States

You’ll find BetRivers licensed and legal in the following states:

  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Delaware
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Michigan (betting & casino)
  • New Jersey (betting & casino)
  • New York
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania (betting & casino)
  • Virginia
  • West Virginia (betting & casino)

How Do I Get The BetRivers Welcome Bonus?

You can get the BetRivers bonus through the following steps:

  1. Select a Claim Offer link on this page.
  2. Hit the “Join Now” promo at BetRivers.
  3. Fill in all required info (e.g., name, state, password) on the sign-up form.
  4. Enter the promo code Sports.
  5. Deposit $10 or more.
  6. Place your first bet worth at least $10.

Why BetRivers

BetRivers stands out thanks to its wide selection of markets and many promos. It features 18-20 sports and covers everything from the pros to the minor leagues. Regarding promos, it typically provides around a dozen deals—far more than the average sportsbook. Additionally, this site offers some of the best odds, a loyalty program, and something for casino players.

Must Be 21+ & Physically In Legal State See more…

For more on this book, check out our BetRivers Sportsbook Review.

Sites Like Bovada FAQ

Is Bovada legal?

Bovada is not legal nor licensed in any US state. It holds a license with Curacao eGaming, which has no jurisdiction in the US. The same goes for Bovada sister sites and Bovada competitors that have offshore licensing. Gambling sites like Pinnacle, Super Slots, Cafe Casino, Las Atlantis, 5Dimes, Ignition Casino, Ignition Poker, Joe Fortune, RedDog Casino, and Wild Casino don’t possess American licensing.

What is the difference between FanDuel and Bovada?

FanDuel obtains licensing in each jurisdiction that it serves. Therefore, it’s 100% legal wherever it provides sports betting, online slots, and horse racing. In contrast, Bovada does not hold licensing in most jurisdictions that it operates in—including all American states. Even its software providers like RealTime Gaming and Dragon Gaming don’t have any form of US licensing.

How can I tell if an online sportsbook is legal?

You can check an online sportsbook’s terms of use section to determine if it’s legal. The terms of use link is usually towards the bottom of a betting site’s website or app. This section should show if a betting app holds licensing in your state. You could also identify betting sites that only operate in regulated jurisdictions. Examples include BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers.

What states have legal online sports betting?

The following states have legal statewide online sports betting:

  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Missouri
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • Tennessee
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • West Virginia
  • Wyoming

Is it safe to bet on Bovada?

No. You cannot guarantee safety when wagering real money on Bovada. Sites like Bovada don’t hold US licensing and, thus, aren’t subject to state or national laws. Unregulated betting, casino, and poker sites often tempt you with a big crypto bonus and a reload bonus afterward. They can theoretically do whatever they want with your money because they don’t have to follow state regulations.

Is there a better site than Bovada?

The best Bovada alternative is any licensed and regulated US betting site. BetMGM, DraftKings, and BetRvers are a few examples of safe sportsbooks with licensing. You can have confidence in these Bovada alternatives because they operate within the laws and regulations of American states. For example, all licensed sports gambling sites in NY are subject to the New York State Gambling Commission’s rules and potential penalties.

Does Bovada actually pay out?

Bovada and any associated sister site are not under any obligation to pay US bettors. They do not have licensing in a single American state and can cut off payouts with no repercussions. The same goes for other gambling sites without licensing like 5Dimes, Wild Casino, Las Atlantis, Super Slots, and Cafe Casino. You’re safest when sticking with the regulated gambling world, including licensing betting sites, online casinos, and poker rooms.

What is the most trusted sports betting site?

The US features plenty of trusted betting sites with state licensing. Therefore, you can trust any licensed online bookmaker like FanDuel, Caesars, or DraftKings. Of course, we still suggest that you read our Props.com reviews on these and other Bovada alternatives. The same advice goes when choosing the best casino alternatives.

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BetMGM

First Bet Offer for New Customers Only

Up To $1500 Paid Back in Bonus Bets if You Don't Win

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US). Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. This promotional offer is not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

Fanduel

Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins

NO PROMO CODE NEEDED

New Players Only, Must be 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Must be Present in Legal State. Full T&Cs Apply. Please Play Responsibly.

Caesars Sportsbook

Bet $1, Double Winnings Your Next 20 Bets

Enter Code: PROPSCOM1000

21+ & Physically in Legal State, T&Cs Apply
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