Since entering the US online casino market in August 2021, DraftKings has quickly established itself as a leading operator. The brand’s reputation precedes it in the sports betting world, so its casino easily attracted thousands of new players. Likewise, existing customers have welcomed the chance to play at a known entity.
Free Video Poker Games You Need to Try Online - Indivisible GamingHowever, unlike with sports betting, not all states have legislation allowing online casino gaming. This limits where you can access the DraftKings Casino app. At this time, the operator holds licenses to provide games in the following states:
- New Jersey.
- Pennsylvania.
- Michigan, - get a $2000 welcome bonus plus 20 free spins when registering from this link.
- Connecticut, - get $3000 in bonus credits + 20 free spins when registering from this link.
- West Virginia.
- Mississippi.
If your state isn’t on this list, don’t worry. Online casino bills are being passed all the time. Furthermore, those that pass often take months before an operator can launch an app. To stay up-to-date with the situation in your state, keep reading. In this guide, we highlight the eligibility requirements for using DraftKings. As well as listing the locations where it operates, we’ll also discuss where laws are being debated.
States Where DraftKings Casino Is Legal
DraftKings Casinos is currently live in five US states: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Connecticut, and Mississippi. We’ve outlined each one below.
1. New Jersey
As things stand, DraftKings Casino NJ is the company’s flagship site. Not only was it the first to launch (August 2021), but the Garden State offers links to other forms of regulated gambling. For example, the site is located in close proximity to several major cities, including New York and Philadelphia. As such, you can pop into a retail casino or sportsbook if you fancy. However, without leaving your home, the DraftKings Casino app provides more than 1100 games. These include classics slots, exclusive titles, and even live dealer games. As such, it outshines some competitors.
Related:
2. Pennsylvania
Anyone looking for a more sedate experience might prefer . Pennsylvania is known as the Keystone State, and its residents certainly use DraftKings Casino as a keystone for their entertainment needs. With over 300 miles between Philly and Pittsburg, that’s a lot of open space. Finally you can enjoy high quality online gambling without having to drive for hours. Another advantage of PA is its central location. Bridges are in place to gaming options in neighboring states, New Jersey and Ohio, there’s still something to be said for having high quality online gambling options right at hand.
The DraftKings Casino PA site won’t wow you with the number of games offered, but every title available has been chosen for quality. There are nearly 1000 games, including exclusives like the Black Mamba and the Goonies. Most slot machines can be played for between 25 and 60 cents, which will appeal to penny slot fans. High rollers can wager up to $300 per spin on titles like Buffalo Bounty.
3. Michigan
DraftKings launched its MI platform in January 2021. Unlike many other states, Michigan allows both in-person and online casino gaming. Therefore, you can visit one of the state’s land-based venues, such as MotorCity Casino or MGM Grand Detroit. Alternatively, you can skip this step and sign up with DraftKings for some online entertainment. Whatever you choose, you’ll find over 1100 games waiting for you on the website and/or mobile app.
If you’re a slots fan, you’ll notice plenty of familiar names. Titles like Wheel of Fortune, Willy Wonka, and The Flintstones sit alongside exclusives, such as Gladiators of Rome and Gorilla Gold Megaways. There are around 20 table games (blackjack, roulette, and Casino War) and seven poker variants. Additionally, you’ll find four forms of video poker and six versions of baccarat. If that sounds light, bear in mind that games like blackjack and roulette are available in innumerable variations.
Best Free Online Poker Games You Need To Try Right Now4. Connecticut
Online casino gaming is a relatively new concept in CT. Governor Ned Lamont signed the state’s gaming bill into law in May 2021. It took a further three months for DraftKings and its rival, Rush Street Interactive, to secure licenses and go live. The two operators have a duopoly on online casino gaming in Connecticut. Between them, they provide online casino services on behalf of the state’s two tribal casinos: Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.
Due to the lengthy legislative process, FOXBet and BetRivers already had a head start when DraftKings went live in Connecticut during October 2021. Catching up won’t be difficult, however, as DraftKings has deep pockets and a proven track record in other states. The site currently offers just under 1000 games, with new additions arriving all the time.
5. West Virginia
Were it not for the addition of sports betting and, now, online casinos, many pundits believed that the downturn in WVa’s coal and oil industries would be fatal to the region’s economy. Fortunately, the state jumped on the iGaming bandwagon early. DraftKings received its WV license in August 2021 and went live a few weeks later.
Although it’s smaller than some sister sites, DraftKings Casino WVa packs a punch. The lobby contains more than 500 slots, table games, video poker, specialty games and live dealers. If you like your gaming speedy, there’s also a great selection of digital instant wins. As soon as you deposit your first $5+, you’ll receive $25 in bonus credits plus 20 free spins on select games.
6. Mississippi
Like West Virginia, Mississippi opted to offer online casino gaming as a means of supplementing tax revenue. The state’s coastline makes it a popular vacation spot. However, like many southern regions, it suffered economically after manufacturing jobs disappeared overseas. By expanding its iGaming offering, Mississippi has joined forces with DraftKings Casino MS and its sister sites.
Amazing NDB Promo Codes That Really Work (Daily Updated)You can use the basic registration form to sign up for DraftKings in less than five minutes. Deposit $5+ to unlock a welcome package worth the same amount. You’ll also get 20 free spins that can be used on selected slots. With more than 950 games available, including plenty of exclusives, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you’d like some additional inspiration, our guide to the includes DraftKings, BetMGM, and BetOnline.
More States Expected to Be Added Soon
As mentioned above, the situation with online casino gambling is constantly changing. Some states have stalled, while others look likely to join the party in the coming months. Here’s a quick overview of what’s happening in various jurisdictions:
Massachusetts
It looks like online casino gaming could become legal in MA anytime now. Back in March 2023, Governor Maura Healey signed H4145 into law. The bill contains provisions for both online sports betting and iCasino gaming. Interestingly, it allows each of the state’s retail casinos to partner with up to three remote operators. Legislation has already been enacted, so the next steps involve the Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) drawing up regulations. The EEA must then submit these rules to the Governor and the General Court for approval. Providing everything goes to plan, Massachusetts residents should be able to start playing online casino games by the end of summer 2023.
Related:
New York
When Governor Andrew Cuomo didn’t veto the 2022 state budget, online sports betting was legalized. Buried within the text of the bill were provisions for iCasino gaming. However, the language used wasn’t specific enough, which meant the four designated sports betting operators (DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and Rush Street) weren’t automatically granted iGaming licenses. The New York Gaming Commission (NYGC) spent much of 2023 devising a licensing process. Any operator that wants to offer remote casino gaming in the state must pay a fee of $25 million and prove they have the capacity to do so effectively and fairly. It now seems likely that public hearings will take place in Q2 2023, which could see some companies licensed by mid-year. However, the entire process may drag on until the end of 2023. NY is one of America’s most populous states, so DraftKings will no doubt be eager to go live there as soon as possible.
South Dakota
Constitution Amendment C was added to South Dakota’s ballot in November 2022. Voters approved the amendment, which means that sports betting and casino gaming are now legal across the state. However, legislators must still write the necessary laws. This involves creating a regulatory body, deciding on tax rates and setting the minimum age for participation. Draftkings Casino shouldn’t arrive in South Dakota before 2024 at the earliest.
Bills Pending in Other States
Over the last couple of years, many states have introduced bills designed to legalize online casinos. Some of these measures died in committee, while others made it through the House and Senate only to be vetoed by the governor. When lawmakers return to their desks in late 2023 / early 2024, the following pieces of legislation will be revisited:
Four Winds Casinos in Michigan - Online & Land-Based OptionsIllinois
Senate Bill 697 was introduced in February 2023. It would add “interactive” casino gaming to the list of permitted forms of wagering in IL. The bill also contains details on sports betting, fantasy sports, and horse racing. Under the terms set out by SB 697, online casinos and sportsbooks would share a 15% tax rate. Officials estimate this would raise $328million in revenue.
Ohio
House Bill 194 was sent to Governor Mike DeWine’s desk in December 2022. It contained provisions for sports betting and retail casino gaming, but not iCasino gambling. DeWine inserted a letter asking lawmakers to resolve the issue of online casino gaming when they returned for the 2023 legislative session. They haven’t done so, so it’s unclear whether they ever will.
Maryland
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) missed its original November 2023 deadline for issuing iGaming licenses. The agency is still working on drawing up regulations. When they’re finished, they must be submitted to the MLGGA board, Governor Larry Hogan and the General Assembly for approval. Even if everything runs smoothly, it’ll probably be spring 2024 before DraftKings Casino MD launches.
California
We’re including CA here despite the fact that the ballot proposition failed in November 2022. The reason is that another bill could be on the table as early as next year. A new group of iGaming proponents is putting together a fresh proposal. If everything falls into place, Californians could vote on the matter again in 2024.
How to Sign Up at DraftKings Casino
Our looks at the registration process in detail. In short, it takes less than five minutes to join and starts with hitting the “Join Now” button in the top right corner of the homepage. From there, you’ll see three different forms. The standard version consists of 11 sections, while condensed and social sign-in options are also available.
Whichever method you choose, you must verify your identity within seven days. This involves sending proof of ID, address and birth certificate to customer service. Although this may sound like a chore, any reputable online casino in the US must carry out KYC (know your customer) checks. The purpose of these procedures is to protect your account - think about it, would you feel happy knowing that strangers could create an account in your name?
Eligibility Requirements
In order to sign up, players must meet several eligibility requirements. Firstly, you must be aged 21 or over. Secondly, you must be within the borders of a state where DraftKings holds a valid license. The site uses geolocation technology to check your location. If you attempt to use DraftKings Casino from a prohibited state, or while concealing a valid location, you’ll be kicked off the site and your account may be closed.
To avoid any issues, we advise using the mobile app. Its geolocation software is more accurate than that used on desktop devices. If you’re having problems, move closer to your neighbor’s fence or take your car for a quick spin around the block. Anyone with a serious medical condition that makes them housebound can contact customer service for assistance.
Once you’ve verified your identity and location, there are no further restrictions on using the site. You can deposit as much cash as you want (within reason). However, all responsible operators will encourage you to gamble responsibly. DraftKings allows you to self exclude, impose deposit limits and time outs at any time via the “Responsible Gambling” section of the account settings.
Why Does DraftKings Only Operate in Certain States?
Some people wrongly assume that DraftKings purposefully restricts its customer base by only operating in certain states. However, this isn’t the case. The reason the company doesn’t hold licenses in all 50 US states is because only 10% are ready for iCasino gaming.
Since the repeal of PASPA in 2018 and the passing of PRO-IPST in 2019, most states have taken little or no action. Some legislatures have discussed the pros and cons of online gambling; others haven’t addressed the subject at all. Without a bill being presented to the governor’s desk, there can be no laws. And without laws, no casino - online or retail - can operate legally.
Best NY Online Casinos July 2023 - Top Sites for New YorkThat leaves companies such as DraftKings in a bit of a catch-22. They have two choices: enter a state without legalcasino laws and operate illegally (and risk heavy fines and prison sentences), or wait and enter the market as soon as it’s legal to do so. Responsible operators always choose the latter. Yes, rivals may gain customers in the interim. But a company built on integrity will always choose to follow the rules rather than break them.
Now the basics of online casino legality have been covered, let’s look at why some states are moving slowly. Those that haven’t tabled bills fall into one of three categories:
- They’re not interested: Some states aren’t considering iCasino bills because residents and officials aren’t in favor. While opponents argue that the industry will bring little to nothing in terms of revenue, proponents counter that it’s a convenient and accessible way to enjoy legal casino gaming. Ultimately, those that aren’t interested aren’t worth DraftKing’s attention.
- They’re considering it: Several states have set up commission or appointed advisors to review the concept of iGaming. These regulators aim to produce reports that will inform bills. From Florida to Washington, numerous pieces of legislation have been proposed over the last few years. None have yet made it over the line.
- They’re ready: Some states have produced detailed bills that appear destined to become law. Unfortunately for DraftKings et al, governors in Alaska and Kentucky have recently vetoed such measures. On the plus side, governors in Maine and Vermont have signed similar bills into law. This means DraftKings will almost certainly be active in ME and VT within the next 12 months.
States Where DraftKings May Never Launch a Casino Site
It’s impossible to predict the future, but it does look as though some states won’t feature on the DraftKings Casino map in the foreseeable future. Wisconsin is a prime example. A bill containing details on sports betting and casino gaming was passed in 2023. However, it specifically states that retail casino businesses must be linked to a racetrack. This means online casino partners cannot be named, meaning online casino gaming has been blocked.
Florida is another state that’s been discussing iGaming for years. However, the SE Commons Bill keeps getting amended to remove the casino language. Without casino gaming, sports betting is the only viable option for DraftKings. The seminole compact gives the company no place, so it’s unlikely to enter the sunshine state any time soon.
Finally, we come to California. I mention California separately because it’s such a big prize. With 39 Native American tribes and horse tracks wanting a slice of the action, plus 53 million people to regulate, any online casino bill in the Golden State is always going to be complex. As things stand, DraftKings may need to partner with multiple remote operators. That will mean higher taxes and potentially lower profits. It may decide that the costs outweigh the benefits and choose to sit this one out.
Why Choose DraftKings Casino?
Even if you can’t access DraftKings right now, you should be able to in the next few years. Below we explain why this is a company worth waiting for.
casinos near memphis tennesseeReputation
Anyone that’s familiar with daily fantasy sports will know all about the DraftKings name. The company has spent the last decade plus establishing itself as a leader in the DFS sphere. Drafting your own team of professional sports players and winning cash prizes is what DFS is all about. Millions of people have used the DraftKings DFS site without issue. This means they trust the company and, therefore, are more likely to use its online casino and/or sportsbook.
Range of States
DraftKings was one of the first operators to offer online sports betting in TN. The company has since secured licenses in five states, making it one of the biggest multi-state betting brands in America. There’s a good chance it’ll continue in this vein as more states pass iGaming laws.
Generous Bonuses
Every welcomes new customers with an initial deposit match worth hundreds of dollars. You’ll also get free spins that can be used on select games. Returning customers can earn bonuses and rewards by taking part in loyalty schemes and occasional promos. For example, the Summer Sizzler runs from June through August, giving users the chance to win a slice of $50,000 every week.
Game Variety
With over 1100 titles available, DraftKings offers one of the largest selections of online slots in the US. Its library of table games, poker variants, instant wins and live dealer titles isn’t as large as some. However, it punches above its weight, thanks to a roster of high-quality games from top developers, including AGS, Scientific Games and Evolution.
-
Which states does DraftKings Casino operate in?
DraftKings offers legal online casino games in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Mississippi. It should become available in Massachusetts, Maryland, Ohio, South Dakota, California, Nevada, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin once online casino legislation is passed and the company secures a license in each state.
-
What are the eligibility requirements to sign up for DraftKings Casino?
To sign up for an online casino account with DraftKings, players must be physically located within a state where the company holds a valid license. Users must also be at least 21 years old and have a verified account with a unique email address, phone number, and social security number. Additional verification, such as providing a government-issued ID and proof of address, may be required upon request.
-
Why doesn't DraftKings operate in all 50 US states?
Online casino operator DraftKings does not operate in all 50 US states because only a small fraction of states have passed legislation permitting online casino gaming. Until laws are in place, DraftKings cannot apply for a license and operate legally within a state. As of now, DraftKings holds licenses in nine US states.
free slots games free online -
Why are some states moving slowly in passing online casino legislation?
Some states are still evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of online casino legislation before presenting bills to their governors. Others have prepared bills that are presently awaiting the governor's signature or require constitutional amendments. Still, other states, such as Wisconsin and Florida, may not be prioritizing internet gambling legislation.
