Maine officially legalized sports betting on May 2, 2022, granting the rights for mobile/online betting to four tribal partners, as well as making provisions for a number of retail betting outlets in the form of land-based facilities.
Maine, in the New England region of the Northeastern area of the U.S., has a population of 1.35million (2020 data). Though it’s within travelling distance of some major sports teams in Massachusetts, there are very slim pickings within the state line itself.
Is sports betting legal in Maine?
While legislation has finally been passed, the actual launch date has yet to be determined. So sports betting fans still have to wait awhile longer to get their hands on some action – once the ball finally reaches the end zone.
Legal sports betting near Maine
While you can’t bet legally in Maine just yet, if you’re willing to cross state lines there are options. Only one state borders Maine, and that is your best bet for now:
New Hampshire: There are retail and mobile options if you’re willing to take the relatively short four-hour drive to the granite state. DraftKings has been the exclusive partner for both retail and mobile app since the state opened up. You need to be in-state and aged 21 or older.
Are offshore sportbooks legal in Maine?
Offshore sportsbooks cannot operate legally in the state of Maine, because they don’t have a license to do so.
With that in mind, we’d advise you strongly not to opt for them. You put yourself at risk with a serious lack of consumer protection if – for example – they refuse to let you withdraw your funds.
Sit tight, wait on Maine to open up and in the meantime, look to New Hampshire for legal options.