New Jersey is widely regarded as the pioneer of legalized sports betting in the United States, paving the way for states nationwide to offer regulated wagering. Since its launch in 2018, New Jersey has become one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic sports betting markets.
Key Points at a Glance
- Launch Date: June 2018
- Legal Betting Age: 21+
- Who Oversees It: New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE)
- Where to Bet: Online sportsbooks, mobile apps, and retail sportsbooks
- Number of Operators: 20+ licensed sportsbooks
- Tax Rate: 13% on online revenue, 8.5% on retail revenue
A Brief History of Sports Betting in New Jersey
New Jersey played a pivotal role in legalizing sports betting nationwide by challenging the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in court. The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn PASPA in May 2018 allowed New Jersey to launch sports betting shortly thereafter in June 2018.
The state’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) oversees the industry, ensuring fairness, compliance, and consumer protection. New Jersey quickly emerged as a national leader, offering online and retail betting options.
Where Can You Bet on Sports in New Jersey?
New Jersey bettors enjoy a wide range of options for placing sports wagers:
- Online Sportsbooks: New Jersey offers access to the largest variety of online sportsbooks in the country, including:
- DraftKings
- FanDuel
- BetMGM
- Caesars Sportsbook
- PointsBet
- Bet365
- Mobile Betting Apps: Mobile apps provide bettors convenient access to live betting, competitive odds, and cash-out features.
- Retail Sportsbooks: Physical sportsbooks are located at casinos and racetracks across the state, including:
- Meadowlands Racetrack (East Rutherford)
- Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa (Atlantic City)
- Monmouth Park (Oceanport)
Sports Betting Rules and Restrictions
New Jersey has clear guidelines to ensure responsible sports wagering:
- Legal Age: Bettors must be 21 or older to place bets.
- College Betting: Wagers on college sports are allowed; however, betting on games involving New Jersey-based college teams is prohibited.
- Location Verification: Online and mobile bets require bettors to be physically located within state borders.
- Prohibited Betting Types: Betting on high school sports and non-sporting events, like elections, is not allowed.
Taxes and Revenue
New Jersey imposes a 13% tax rate on online sportsbook revenue and an 8.5% tax rate on retail sportsbook revenue. The tax proceeds are directed toward public programs and infrastructure improvements throughout the state.
Since its launch, New Jersey has consistently generated significant sports betting handles and revenue, positioning itself as a leader in the U.S. market.
The Future of Sports Betting in New Jersey
New Jersey’s sports betting market continues to thrive, fueled by innovations in mobile betting, live wagering, and partnerships with major sports teams. The state remains competitive as one of the top sports betting markets in the country, with ongoing advancements expected to enhance the user experience further.
How to Start Betting on Sports in New Jersey
- Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Select a trusted platform like DraftKings, FanDuel, or Caesars Sportsbook.
- Register and Verify: Sign up online or through a mobile app and verify your identity.
- Deposit Funds: Use secure payment options to add funds to your account.
- Place Your Bet: Browse markets, select your bet, and confirm your wager.
- Withdraw Winnings: Securely cash out winnings through approved methods.
Conclusion
New Jersey has become a pioneer and leader in the U.S. sports betting industry. With various retail and online options, bettors enjoy a seamless, competitive, and highly regulated experience. New Jersey is poised to remain at the forefront of innovation and growth in sports wagering as the market evolves.