Delaware Gambling Laws
Online Gambling in Delaware: Laws, Options, and Market Overview
Delaware stands as one of the pioneering U.S. states in regulated online gambling, having legalized internet casino games and poker in 2012 through the Delaware Gaming Competitiveness Act. Players access these services exclusively via platforms tied to the state’s three racinos, with oversight from the Delaware Lottery and Division of Gaming Enforcement. While offshore sites operate in a legal gray area, no prosecutions of individual players have occurred historically, though state authorities emphasize risks such as lack of consumer protections.
Legal Framework for Online Gambling
Delaware law defines unauthorized gambling broadly but lacks explicit definitions for online activities. State-regulated platforms remain the sole legal avenue for real-money online casino and poker play. The absence of specific prohibitions on offshore sites in key legislation, including the 2012 act, leads many players to view platforms like Bovada as permissible. Enforcement focuses on operators rather than individuals, with no recorded fines or charges against Delaware residents for offshore gambling.
State-Regulated Online Casinos
Three licensed online casinos operate in partnership with the state’s racinos: Delaware Park Online, Dover Downs Online Gaming, and Harrington Online. These platforms, now powered by Rush Street Interactive (BetRivers brand) since the transition from 888 Holdings, function as a unified system offering slots, table games including blackjack and roulette, video poker, and progressive jackpots.
Physical racinos feature extensive gaming floors, each supporting over 1,500 terminals, with state-mandated RTP for slots ranging from 87% to 95%. Online versions deliver comparable experiences, regulated for fairness and security. Revenue supports state programs through lottery contributions, with historical growth from $1.4 million in early years to higher figures reflecting market maturation.
Online Poker in Delaware
Online poker launched alongside casinos in 2013 on the 888 platform, initially facing low traffic. Participation in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) began with Nevada in 2015, expanded to New Jersey in 2018, and includes Michigan and West Virginia. Pennsylvania joined the shared pool in 2025, significantly boosting liquidity for 24/7 play across member states.
Delaware players benefit from larger player pools for cash games and tournaments. Each racino maintains a live poker room for in-person action, complementing online offerings.
Sports Betting Landscape
Delaware launched retail sports betting in 2018 following the PASPA repeal, with Governor John Carney placing the first wager. Mobile sports betting became available via BetRivers in early 2024, marking the state’s entry into regulated online wagering. Retail books at the three racinos remain active, with horse racing bets permitted on-site, off-track, and for out-of-state events.
Expansion discussions continue, potentially introducing additional operators, though the market remains limited compared to neighboring states.
Other Gambling Forms
Daily Fantasy Sports gained legalization in 2017 via the Interactive Fantasy Contest Act, with registered operators including DraftKings, FanDuel, and others available to residents.
The Delaware Lottery offers multi-state draws, instant games, keno, and video lottery products exclusively through licensed retailers—no online ticket sales are authorized, though the official website provides information and results.
Bingo operates primarily as a charitable activity with no state-regulated online options currently available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gambling options are available in Delaware?
Delaware provides robust land-based and online gambling through state-regulated platforms, including casino games, poker, sports betting, DFS, lottery products, and charitable bingo. The state pioneered regulated iGaming and maintains a structured market favoring controlled access.
What laws govern online gambling in Delaware?
The Delaware Constitution, statutes, and regulations under the Delaware Lottery and Division of Gaming Enforcement oversee gambling. No explicit bans target offshore play, and interpretations suggest physical gambling rules may not fully extend to online contexts.