Gambling in Delaware

Looking for up-to-date Delaware gambling laws? You’re at the right place! Here’s some of the most important information about gambling in Delaware.

Online Gambling in Delaware

Delaware gambling laws are among the most permissive in the US. There are numerous popular racinos in Delaware with video state lottery-owned gaming terminals, horse racing and various sports betting opportunities. On top of land-based gambling, online casinos are also legal in Delaware. 

The First State was actually a pioneer of US online gambling laws, as they were the first to approve and regulate the market, in 2012. By 2014, the licensed casinos introduced free and real money online blackjack, roulette, poker, and slot games. In order to provide legal online gambling in Delaware, operators need the license of the Division of Gaming Enforcement. It’s important to note that Delaware online casinos don’t accept players from other states. Detailed information about Delaware gambling laws and penalties can be found in the state’s Code (Title 11, Chapter 5).

Lotteries in Delaware

Lotteries are also legal in Delaware and they’re run by the government. Established in 1974, the Delaware Lottery offers Keno, Powerball, Hot Lotto, Mega Millions, Multi-Win Lotto, Instant Games, Sports Lottery, and many other games. Lottery profits go to the State General Fund to finance important state services. Since its establishment, the Delaware Lottery contributed more than USD 3 billion to the state budget. Recently, a man has won USD 1 million with a forgotten Powerball ticket, redeeming it almost a year after the draw.

Daily Fantasy Sports in Delaware

The investigation into the legality of Daily Fantasy Sports in Delaware started in October 2015. The investigation was preceded by the shut-down of Daily Fantasy Sports sites. “When Nevada made the first move to shut down the sites, we felt that it was our obligation to certainly understand their reasoning behind it,” said Tim Cook, Delaware Finance Secretary. The legal overview started in 2016. The House Gaming & Parimutuels Committee briefly discussed the legality of Daily Fantasy Sports in Delaware. This session served only as an introduction so nothing was decided yet. Meanwhile, all big Daily Fantasy Sports sites welcome Delawareans. According to DraftKings, approximately 150,000 Delawareans played fantasy sports in 2015.