Rhode Island Sports Betting: Best Legal Sportsbooks

Is sports betting legal in Rhode Island?

Yes. Rhode Island legalised sports wagering in 2018, and the first in-person bets were taken that November at the state's two casinos in Lincoln and Tiverton. Mobile betting followed in 2019, initially with a requirement to register in person, which the state later dropped.

The Rhode Island Lottery, part of the state's Department of Revenue, runs the market directly. The minimum age is 18, lower than in most of New England, and you must be physically located in Rhode Island to bet online.

Betting in person at Bally's casinos

Rhode Island's two casinos, Bally's Twin River Lincoln and Bally's Tiverton, both run retail sportsbooks where you can bet at the counter or at kiosks. For bettors who do not want to use an app, these are the only legal venues in the state. Retail betting suits big events such as the Super Bowl or the NCAA tournament, when the atmosphere is part of the appeal. The same Lottery rules apply in person and online, including the minimum age of 18 and the right to request self-exclusion.

A state-run sportsbook, with a second app on the way

For most of its history, Rhode Island has offered a single online sportsbook, Sportsbook Rhode Island, operated by technology supplier IGT on the Lottery's behalf. The state keeps a large share of revenue under this model. In May 2026 the Lottery tentatively awarded Bally's a contract to launch a second online sportsbook, with a target of going live by the end of 2026.

None of the three US sportsbooks we rank is licensed in Rhode Island, so our rankings for the state are empty for now. Massachusetts and Connecticut both have competitive mobile markets, and an account licensed there will work while you are physically inside those states.

Geolocation in the smallest state

Rhode Island's size makes geolocation especially important: in parts of the state you are only a few minutes from Massachusetts or Connecticut. Make sure location services are switched on and that the app confirms you are within Rhode Island before placing a bet, particularly if you live near the borders in Woonsocket, Pawtucket or Westerly.

Rhode Island treats gambling winnings as taxable income, and the Lottery or casino may withhold tax on large prizes.

Friars, Rams and Boston loyalties

Providence College basketball and the University of Rhode Island Rams are the main local teams, while most residents follow the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins. If you bet, keep your stakes to a set budget. The Rhode Island Lottery supports problem gambling services, and help is available through 1-800-GAMBLER.