Is Sports Betting Legal In Florida?

Sports betting is legal in Florida, with a legal betting age of 21.

Hard Rock Bet: The Only Online Betting Site and App in Florida

The only online betting site and app currently allowed in Florida is the Seminole Tribe's Hard Rock Bet. The platform is also available in Arizona, New Jersey, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Using Hard Rock Bet in Florida

Sports betting was in an "early access" phase ahead of the full launch of the platform on Dec. 5. Anyone in Florida who is 21 years of age and older can use Hard Rock Bet to wager on sports.

Previously, sports bettors had to enroll in the company's loyalty program online or in person at a Hard Rock or Seminole Casino location in the state. Bettors were required to earn at least one "Unity" point with in-person play at any brick-and-mortar casino. From there, would-be sports bettors needed to download the Hard Rock Bet app and register with the same name and email address used for the loyalty account. Gamblers received an email if/when verified.

As of Dec. 5, the in-person requirement to register for the platform was no longer in place.

The Only Legal Sports Betting App in Florida: Hard Rock Bet

In summary, the only legal sports betting app in Florida is Hard Rock Bet. The platform is available on iOS and Android. Other betting apps from Florida pari-mutuel companies are expected in the future. Part of the revenue from those apps goes to the Seminole Tribe, according to the South Florida Sun Sentinel.

All other online sports betting platforms licensed in other U.S. states are not allowed. Popular sports betting sites like FanDuel Sportsbook and DraftKings Sportsbook can't be used. However, the fantasy sports products from FanDuel and DraftKings are available in Florida.

Floridians visiting a different legal sports betting state can use other platforms.

Best Florida Sports Betting Apps: Top Expected Florida Sportsbook Apps

Florida betting apps are making a return with Hard Rock Bet re-launching on November 7. Although this is the only available app for the time being, it's possible other Florida sports betting apps launch in the future. No matter what happens, we'll keep you up to date with everything you need to know surrounding Florida sportsbooks.

Best Florida Sports Betting Apps: December 2023 Rankings

At this time, Hard Rock Bet is expected to be the only Florida betting app available in the state. Considering the size of the Florida sports betting market, however, all of the leading online gambling operators will certainly attempt to launch a Florida sports betting app if they get the chance. Here’s what you can expect from the platforms, including info on the top Florida sports betting promo codes.

Florida has a population of nearly 22 million and is home to many top-level sports teams. That means the size of the online wagering market here is set to be enormous, and Florida sports betting apps will go all out to capture their share of it.

Best Overall Florida Sports Betting App: Hard Rock Bet

The Hard Rock Bet Florida app may be the only one allowed to launch before the end of 2023. Even if others are permitted to open for business shortly afterward, this operator will have a healthy head start.

The good news for bettors in the Sunshine State is that this is a quality product. Mobile betting fans in other states rate it highly, not least for the excellent range of live betting markets it provides. You can find plenty of customer support options and a regular supply of enticing bonuses. The app is also very easy to navigate and use, making it perfect for new and experienced bettors alike.

Best Overall Florida Sports Betting App: BetMGM

The BetMGM Florida app is the ideal place to visit if you like to place bets on a wide variety of sports. The selection of leagues and events that you can wager on is incredibly impressive.

As you would expect, there are plenty of opportunities to bet on major North American sports such as the NFL and NBA. But you will also find extensive markets on sports that are popular nationally and internationally. Fans of less mainstream sports also have a good chance of being able to wager on their favorite games.

Best Florida Sports Betting App For Promos: Caesars Sportsbook

The Caesars Florida app is certain to offer a tremendous range of bonuses and promotions that add a little extra spice to the mobile wagering experience. It starts with a no-loss first bet offer, whereby you get your stake back if your initial wager loses up to a notably high limit of $1,250.

This operator prides itself on the frequency and creativity of its bonuses. Look out for daily odds boosts, parlay enhancements, and the excellent rewards program. Big games in major sports also present an excuse for the brand to offer you an inventive promo opportunity.

Top Florida Sports Betting App For Live Betting Options: DraftKings

The DraftKings Florida app will be a great place to visit if you enjoy placing wagers during a sports event. Most leading online sportsbooks now have an in-play wagering capability – but nobody does it better than this operator.

The company has been at the forefront of mobile betting technology since its days focusing on Daily Fantasy Sports. It has evolved superbly to become one of the leading online sportsbooks. At its heart is the chance to bet on live markets; there is always a generous choice when you visit the book, and it’s backed up by excellent in-play stats.

Top Florida Sports Betting App For User Experience: FanDuel

The FanDuel Florida app is virtually certain to be one of the most popular destinations for mobile bettors in the Sunshine State. In virtually every other state where it is live, this operator is at or near the top of the table for handle and revenue.

One of the factors key to that success is the excellence of the mobile wagering experience you will find in the operator’s app. The full suite of betting markets and bonuses is available to mobile users from a company known for its constant innovation. The fact that visitors to major app stores from other states rate this app so highly is no accident.

Top Florida Sports Betting App For Merch-Related Rewards: Fanatics

The Fanatics Florida betting app is set to be an intriguing entrant to the online wagering landscape in the Sunshine State. This brand is a relative newcomer to the industry, but it has already made a strong impression in the handful of states where its app has gone live.

One of its most compelling features is its FanCash rewards program. You earn points whenever you wager, and your bonus balance can be used to purchase bonus bets. Those bonus dollars can also be put towards the cost of team merchandise – the field in which the brand made its name.

Florida Mobile Sports Betting Legislation & Launch Timeline: November 2023

The quest to legalize Florida sports betting apps has become mired in extensive legal wrangling in recent years. The most recent developments have been as follows:

• 📅 November 8, 2023: West Flagler files a motion with the Florida Supreme Court, seeking an "immediate suspension" of Florida's sports betting law while awaiting a final ruling. If granted by the state's Supreme Court, this could force Hard Rock Bet to cease operations in Florida once more.
• 📅 November 7, 2023: Hard Rock Bet announces it will re-launch in Florida, albeit in a limited fashion. Previous customers can access the Hard Rock Bet FL app during an "early access" period, while new customers can join a waitlist by signing up for its loyalty program (Unity by Hard Rock) and earning at least 1 Unity point by playing casino games in person at one of their six locations.
• 📅 September 28, 2023: West Flagler and its legal team files a petition with the Florida Supreme Court to prevent the launch of Hard Rock Bet in the state due to constitutional matters.
• 📅 September 11, 2023: The US Appeals Court (DC Circuit) denies the rehearing of the case brought by two Florida gaming companies against the US Department of Interior.
• 📅 August 2023: West Flagler Associates files a petition to rehear its lawsuit against the Seminole Tribe, which launched a Hard Rock Florida betting app in 2021.
• 📅 June 2023: The Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the Seminole Tribe over the closure of its Hard Rock app in 2021.
• 📅 December 2021: The Hard Rock Florida sports betting app is closed following a series of court hearings, a decision that led to an 18-month hold-up while the Court of Appeals deliberates.
• 📅 November 2021: The Seminole Tribe and Hard Rock opened an online Florida sportsbook, which was suspended just over a month later.
• 📅 April 2021: The state and the tribe agree on the new Florida-Seminole Gaming Compact. This allows the tribe to administer all sports betting in Florida, including off-reservation land. That effectively opens the door to online wagering.

Although the legal battle isn't fully resolved, the Seminole Tribe must feel confident enough that it is allowing wagers on a limited basis. The tribe has also announced it will be launching retail sports betting at their casinos as well, which is set to start December 7.

Are Florida Betting Apps Legal?

The Court of Appeals’ ruling in favor of the Seminole Tribe in June 2023 means that, technically, betting apps in Florida are legal. However, the industry is currently in limbo while an appeal, by West Flagler Associates, against that decision is finalized. This is likely why Hard Rock Bet has re-launched in a limited capacity rather than opening it to all potential bettors across the state.

How Many Florida Sportsbook Apps Will Be Available?

The future of Florida gambling apps is shrouded in uncertainty. Until there is clarity over the legality of the 2021 compact between the Seminole Tribe and the state, it is not possible to know how many licenses might one day be available for Florida sportsbook app operators – or when they might launch. For now, the only betting app in Florida will be Hard Rock Bet.

Can You Use Multiple Betting Apps In Florida?

No matter how many Florida sports betting apps are eventually available in the state, you will be able to open accounts with all of them. There is nothing to restrict you to a single FL sportsbook app – and, indeed, there are several reasons why it’s a good idea to register for more than one.

By visiting several Florida sportsbook apps, you will be able to decide which one most suits you and your betting style. You will get the best odds by comparing the markets at different books. And you can take advantage of a welcome bonus whenever you open a Florida betting app account.

Florida Sportsbook Apps: Best App Store Ratings

Identifying the best Florida sports betting apps for you can be difficult. So many outstanding operators are likely to obtain licenses in time, and every one will make a persuasive case for you to devote your time and money to it.

One way to narrow down your choice of betting apps in Florida is to consult the thoughts of users in other states. If you visit the app store that corresponds to your device, you’ll find a host of reviews and ratings. By doing your research, you can see why customers like a particular app – and, if there are negatives, you can see which complaints come up most often.

How To Download And Install Florida Sports Betting Apps

The easiest way to download Florida betting apps will be to visit your app store and locate the app in question. Let’s look in detail at the steps you will be able to follow so that you can start using the best Florida sportsbook apps.

How To Download Apple iOS Betting Apps In Florida

If you own an iPhone or another iOS device, here’s how you will be able to download FL gambling apps:

• ✅ Visit the Apple App store on the home screen of your iOS device
• ✅ Go to the search bar and type in the name of the Florida betting app you want
• ✅ Click on the app when you find it - that will start the download process
• ✅ Your app should download to your home screen straight away
• ✅ Now you can sign in to your account - or open a new one

How To Download Android Sports Betting Apps In Florida

The process of downloading a Florida sports betting app to your Android should be straightforward:

• ✅ Go to the Google Play Store on your Android device
• ✅ Use the search bar to write in the name of the Florida sportsbook app you want
• ✅ Once you get to the app, click on it to download it to your device
• ✅ Go back to your home screen and the app should be there waiting for you
• ✅ You can now create an account - or sign into your existing account

State-Specific Florida Betting Apps vs. Universal Betting Apps

Many of the best Florida betting apps will be delivered by operators that provide the same app in every state where they hold a license. It’s easier for the brand in question to focus on maintaining and improving the quality of a single app. In some states, you can download universal apps before they go live; you’ll be able to become familiar with the app, but you won’t be able to place a bet.

Some operators, however, create a state-specific app whenever they obtain a new license. The main advantage of doing this is that the company can offer a far more localized service that appeals specifically to players in the state where that particular app is available.

What Are The Rules And Regulations For Downloading A Florida Sports Betting App?

When you want to start downloading Florida gambling apps, there will be a couple of significant restrictions. The first is that you must be over the legal gambling age in the state, which is likely to be 21. You will have to provide your ID during the sign-up process to demonstrate you are old enough to place sports bets.

You will also need to be physically located in the state to enjoy Florida mobile sports betting. Most Florida online betting apps will use geo-location tools to check you are within state lines and are permitted to place bets.

Do I Have to Download a Florida Sportsbook App If I Want To Bet?

You will be able to enjoy sports betting on your desktop or mobile device without downloading a Florida sports betting app. All the companies responsible for FL sportsbook apps are likely to produce a sports betting website too.

This makes it possible to access your favorite markets and bonuses on your mobile without an app. Simply open a web browser window on your device and access the website; many sites are optimized for mobile use, so they should be easy to use.

Florida Sportsbook Apps vs. Desktop Betting & Mobile Web Betting

Many bettors enjoy wagering on sport through a desktop device. The screen size is much larger than on a mobile, so you can absorb more information at one time – and, if you are live streaming an event, the picture will be much bigger.

However, using Florida betting apps has several advantages, not least the sheer convenience of being able to access markets and place bets wherever you are. As long as you have a signal, you can make your choice and put your money down whether you are at home, at work, out with friends, or even at the big game.

In-Person Betting At Florida Retail Casino

There are several tribal casinos in Florida, and it may be that some might be allowed to offer in-person sportsbooks in future. If that is the case, many people will take advantage of this so that they can enjoy the experience of placing sports bets surrounded by like-minded enthusiasts.

Retail sportsbooks within casinos tend to offer big screens to watch the top sports action, often while sitting in plush armchairs. There will also be staff in attendance to take your bets and answer any queries. You should also be able to place wagers in cash – and pick up your payout instantly if you select a winner.

Should I Download a Florida Sports Betting App Before Going To A Retail Casino?

Downloading a Florida sportsbook app before visiting a casino where you can place sports back is often a smart move. You are covering all the bases, and the best Florida online betting apps give you another option when you want to place a wager:

• If you have a Florida sports betting app on your device, you can compare the odds against the prices at the retail sportsbook. They might give you an extra slice of value.
• You can be virtually certain of getting your bet on straight away if you are using the best Florida gambling apps. If you are betting in play, for instance, there is no need to queue at an in-person window.
• As well as enjoying sports betting, you might like casino games too. With a Florida sportsbook app to hand, you can keep up to speed with your sports wagers while enjoying yourself on the slots or table games.

Are Promotions Available On Florida Sportsbook Apps?

One of the ways in which Florida online betting apps will vie strongly for your custom is through offering a host of promotions and bonuses. You should expect to be offered an excellent Florida sports betting promotion in return for opening an account; a deposit match that doubles your bankroll, for instance, or the chance to play your losing first stake a second time.

The top betting apps in Florida will also deliver bonuses on a regular basis after you sign up. Look out for daily odds boosts and parlay enhancements, as well as special markets on big games. There may also be the chance to enter exclusive competitions, or the opportunity to earn rewards for your regular play by joining a loyalty program.

Florida Sports Betting Apps FAQ

When will Florida sports betting apps be legal?

Florida sports betting apps are currently legal but on a limited basis. Not only is Hard Rock Bet expected to be the only app available in Florida, but wagering is currently limited to existing customers. New users who sign up have to join a waitlist to gain access.

How many Florida betting apps will there be?

This has yet to be decided. It is possible that Hard Rock Bet will be the only Florida betting app to launch. Whether other operators decide to follow and launch Florida betting apps may depend on the outcome of legal disputes relating to the 2021 tribal compact.

Does every online sportsbook in Florida have a betting app?

Not every online Florida sportsbook will necessarily offer an app in the state. Most will launch an app when allowed, but it's possible that some will not. Be sure the sportsbook you choose has an app compatible for your mobile device.

What is the best sports betting app for Florida?

Currently, Hard Rock Bet is the only sports betting app in Florida and it will likely remain this way for the foreseeable future. The Seminole Tribe, which owns the Hard Rock brand, has exclusivity in Florida gaming. Because of this, it's unlikely the tribe will want to allow other apps in the state.

What Is The Best Florida betting app for promos?

The only Florida betting app currently available is Hard Rock Bet. Fortunately for Florida bettors, Hard Rock Bet does a solid job of offering promos for both new and existing users.

Can I Bet On College Sports With Florida Betting Apps?

Yes, college sports betting is legal in Florida via the Hard Rock Bet app. While betting on Florida-based schools is legal, placing individual player props on college athletes is restricted.