North Carolina Sports Betting Pre-Registration To Start Today!

North Carolina Prepares for Online Sports Betting Launch: Licenses Awarded to Eight Companies

On Thursday afternoon, the North Carolina State Lottery Commission made the significant announcement that it has granted online sports betting licenses to eight firms.

This pivotal decision allows bet365, BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Fanatics, FanDuel, and Underdog to begin the process of accepting registrations and deposits from as early as noon on Friday, setting the stage for the official sports betting launch in North Carolina on March 11.

Ripley Rand, the chair of the North Carolina State Lottery Commission, remarked, “Today marks a significant step forward in the introduction of legal sports betting within North Carolina. Starting Friday, residents can register for accounts via their mobile devices, assured of the ability to soon place secure and responsible bets on their preferred sports events. With the launch just 11 days away, our team is committed to ensuring a smooth and successful rollout.”

Keep an eye on Gambling.com for continuous updates on this development and more as we approach the launch of sportsbook apps in North Carolina!

Here is what you need to know about North Carolina Sports Betting

With HB 347 now signed we have 12 online sportsbook licenses in North Carolina on launch day March 11th. This undoubtedly has attracted many of the best US mobile sportsbooks to North Carolina. 

7 of them are expected to have pre-launch offers. Here are some of the leading online sportsbooks that are predicted to have these offers:

1. FanDuel Sportsbook North Carolina

The Fanduel sportsbook is already recognized in North Carolina for its Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) offerings, supported by Flutter Entertainment, this platform is accessible in 19 states. Offering an extensive range of bets across multiple sports, along with live betting, it stands as a prominent candidate for the title of the top North Carolina sportsbook.

2. BetMGM North Carolina Sportsbook

Another contender for the best sportsbook in NC. BetMGM North Carolina is active in over 20 states and offers a loyalty program called MGM Rewards. This program lets you earn points from betting, which you can then use for online bonuses or real-world perks.

3. Caesars North Carolina Sportsbook

Caesars has a strong presence in North Carolina with two physical legal sportsbooks. Anticipate the advent of live betting, NFL streams, and a rewards program for local casinos if online sports betting receives legal approval.

4. ESPN BET Sportsbook NC

ESPN BET is the latest PENN Entertainment brand that is now accessible across 17 states, and we eagerly anticipate exploring the brand's offerings and promotions tailored for users in North Carolina.

5. DraftKings North Carolina Sportsbook

DraftKings North Carolina has been offering DFS games in North Carolina for some time. With the legalization of sports betting in North Carolina, its widespread accessibility and added features such as live streaming and live betting on the dedicated North Carolina betting app are poised to make it a highly sought-after choice among enthusiasts.

The Legislative Journey of North Carolina Sports Betting

• 📆 2019: North Carolina legalized sports betting at tribal casinos through Senate Bill 154, passing with overwhelming support. This paved the way for in-person betting at Cherokee's Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprises and Catawba Two Kings Casino, which became available in 2021.
• 📆 May 2021: Witnessing a historic moment, the first retail sportsbook, Caesars NC Sportsbook, opened its doors at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River.
• 📆 2022: Senate Bill 688 aimed to permit 10-12 North Carolina sportsbooks, but faced opposition. Hopes were high when it reached the House, but in June, a close 50-51 vote delayed the launch of online betting.
• 📆 2023: Turning the tide, House Bill 347 was signed into law, laying the groundwork for online sports betting. The launch was slated to be in the first half of 2024.
• 📆 January 2024: There were concerns surrounding issues like underage mobile betting and potential gambling addiction. Addressing these, the North Carolina Lottery Commission meticulously outlined regulations in a comprehensive 256-page document, setting the stage for the upcoming era of sports betting in the state.
• 📆 Present: North Carolina sports betting is live on March 11th and bettors can take part in a variety of sportsbooks in the state. 

Economic and Social Impacts

North Carolina's sports betting landscape brings a tax of 18% on gross gaming revenue for license holders, a revision from the House's proposed 14%. This contrasts with Virginia's 15% tax and Tennessee's unique approach, taxing operators based on the total amount bet.

For operators to launch, they must secure written agreements with sports teams, venues, or leagues. The entry fee includes a $1 million licensing fee, with an additional $1 million renewable fee after five years.

The state anticipates substantial tax revenues, projecting $64.6 million in the inaugural year, escalating to an estimated $100.6 million in the fourth year post-legalization. Of this, $2 million is earmarked for gambling addiction education and treatment programs under the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS).

In terms of social impact, North Carolina Amateur Sports stands to benefit from a $1 million grant for bolstering youth sports opportunities. Additionally, $1 million supports North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission grants, while each of the 13 state universities receives $300,000 annually for their athletic departments. A reserve of up to $500,000 caters to NCLC expenses.

Following these allocations, any remaining proceeds undergo a structured distribution. Half contributes to the state's General Fund, 30% to the North Carolina Major Events, Games and Attractions Fund, and the remaining 20% is equally divided among the 13 universities to further bolster their athletic departments.

Sports Culture Impact

Governor Cooper pushed for the introduction of North Carolina sports betting in time for the March Madness NCAA basketball tournament. With Selection Sunday scheduled for March 17 and the tournament set to begin on March 19, this ambitious timeline could bring about a significant basketball boom in the state.

The legalization of sports betting is poised to have a profound impact on college sports in the state. The commitment of $300,000 annually to each of the 13 state universities is expected to be a game-changer, providing crucial support to their athletic departments. The allocation of 20% of remaining tax revenue equally to these universities further aims to bolster their athletic programs.

One such beneficiary, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, sees this financial support as transformative for small-town athletics. Athletic Director Dick Christy emphasized its significance in stabilizing operating budgets, structuring health and safety requirements, and positively influencing the local economy.

In a recent interview with WUNC North Carolina Public Radio, Christy shared insights into the potential impact of tax revenues on athletics in the state. While projections hint at substantial revenues, there's cautious optimism until the process is up and running.

North Carolina is now among the states embracing sports betting, with anticipation building for the launch of March Madness betting sites. This marks a pivotal moment for sports enthusiasts, offering a legal and regulated avenue to engage with one of the most anticipated events in college basketball.

How North Carolina Bettors Will Be Able to Participate

When the operators' licenses are confirmed, then North Carolina sports betting enthusiasts can start to sign up to the likes of DraftKings North Carolina Sportsbook, BetMGM North Carolina Sportsbook, ESPN BET North Carolina Sportsbook, and FanDuel North Carolina Sportsbook, where there will no doubt be North Carolina sportsbook promotions aplenty. 

Creating Sportsbook Accounts

Here is how you can create a sportsbook account: 

1. First, click "sign up" on the website or app
2. Make your first deposit
3. Choose a sport and select a market to bet on
4. Enter how much you wish to bet and submit your bet slip

Legal Betting Age

• North Carolina residents over the age of 21 will be able to bet on professional and college sports 
• Placing bets can be done by computer, mobile app, or in-person at an approved retail location.

Events Allowed To Bet On

There will be a huge number of sports betting markets to wager on in North Carolina. Some notable ones are the following: 

• ⚽ Football
• 🏀 Basketball
• ⚾ Baseball
• 🏌️‍♂️ Golf
• 🏒 Hockey
• ⚽ Soccer
• And many more!

How Betting Odds Work For Beginners

American Odds Overview:

• Widely used in the US, presented as a triple-digit number with either (-) or (+).
• System revolves around A$100 as a baseline.

Negative (-) Odds:

• Indicates the amount needed to bet for a A$100 profit.
• Example: Betting A$200 at -200 odds yields A$300 in total (stake + profit).

Positive (+) Odds:

• Reflects potential profit for a A$100 wager.
• Example: Betting A$100 at +200 odds results in A$300 in total (stake + profit) after a win.

Importance Of Responsible Gambling

• First-time North Carolina bettors should also bear in mind it is important to practice responsible betting.
• Punters should only bet what they can afford to lose, and if they are wagering and the fun stops, they should stop betting.

Comparing North Carolina With Other Legalized Betting States

North Carolina sports betting, distinct from some states like Vermont, lacks restrictions on in-state college games, a boon for the vibrant college sports scene. The state's familiarity with in-person sports betting may provide an edge, with certain locations already allowing it.

A positive for North Carolina lies in the potential revenue generation, with an 18% tax on license holders' gross gaming revenue, surpassing nearby states. Comparatively, Virginia taxes at 15%, and Tennessee taxes based on the betting handle. In contrast, Michigan taxes at 8.4%, while Ohio doubled its tax rate from 10% to 20% within six months of launching in January 2023.

Considering this trend, North Carolina might adjust its rates within the first year, enhancing its revenue prospects.

Technology and Security

As North Carolina prepares for sports betting, experts foresee a tech-driven transformation within 3-5 years, particularly with the integration of AI to enhance customer experience. Top sportsbooks, like BetMGM, Caesars, and Bet365, prioritize secure mobile apps, employing measures such as SSL encryption and firewalls.

FanDuel adopts a proactive security approach, partnering with HackerOne for a bug bounty program. In the app security realm, users are encouraged to create strong passwords. The North Carolina Lottery Commission (NCLC) ensures operators' tech compliance through approved rules, certifications, and independent testing.

This collaborative effort aims to establish a secure and technologically advanced foundation for sports betting in North Carolina as the launch date approaches.

Looking Ahead: What’s in Store for North Carolina

Unless you're hoping to place a bet on this year's Super Bowl, North Carolina's advance into sports betting looks to be arriving at just the right time.

The tax rate seems to be set at a rate which will generate significant revenue for the Tar Heel state, especially when compared to several other states.

That will then filter down to improving the local sporting landscape, with part of the funding due to go to college athletic departments, youth sports, and go into helping to promote responsible gambling.

The future also looks bright for North Carolina in terms of the sports betting industry.

The state may well be heading into mobile betting at an ideal time, as it will be well established in the next three to five years, when AI, virtual reality and immersive betting experiences could be the norm in the betting industry. It's an exciting time to be a North Carolina sports betting enthusiast, but responsible gambling should be maintained at all times.

Additional Resources

The North Carolina Problem Gambling Program (NCPGP) - provides and supports effective problem gambling prevention, education, outreach and treatment services throughout North Carolina.

North Carolina Problem Gambling Helpline - 877-718-5543

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) - also provides a support gambling assistance program More Than a Game:

• Phone: 877-718-5543
• Text: Send phrase morethanagamenc to 53342
• Live chat: morthanagame.nc.gov

North Carolina Education Lottery’s Play Smart program - https://nclottery.com/playsmart-play-smarter

Support Services

• The National Problem Gambling Helpline -  1-800-GAMBLER. (CO, DC, IL, IN, LA, MD, MS, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY)
• The National Problem Gambling Helpline -  (1-800-522-4700) - is available 24/7 and is 100% Confidential.
• The National Council on Problem Gambling - Offers text services at 800-522-4700 as well as chat services through their website https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/chat/
• Gamblers Anonymous - An organization that helps individuals recover from gambling problems. 24/7 gambling problem hotline at 855-222-5542.