Missouri Sports Betting Regulations & Laws

Sports betting in Missouri will officially launch on December 1, 2025, at 12:00 AM, with pre-registration opening on November 17, 2025. Betting will be legal for anyone aged 21 or older who is in the state of Missouri; this will be verified using sophisticated geolocation technology.

This long-awaited change comes thanks to Amendment 2, which was passed by an incredibly narrow margin of just 2,961 votes on November 5, 2024, making it one of the closest sports betting votes in the U.S. The betting landscape will be attractive to both operators and players; there’s a relatively low 10% tax rate on adjusted gross revenue (AGR), which is well below neighboring states like Pennsylvania and Ohio.

Missouri bettors will have access to up to 14 licensed operators and 19 retail sportsbooks. College betting is also allowed here, although there are strict rules prohibiting player props involving Missouri athletes.

The market will be regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC), ensuring a safe, fair, and transparent experience for everyone involved. To read about some of the already licensed sportsbooks, you can head over to the Missouri Betting Hub.

How Missouri Legalized Sports Betting

Amendment 2 Approval Process

Missouri became the 31st state to legalize sports gambling but getting there wasn’t easy. There were many political hurdles, so voters took matters into their own hands by passing a citizen-led constitutional amendment. After a close vote, Amendment 2 passed, leading the way to legal sports wagering in the state.

Here’s how that panned out:

• Nov. 21, 2023 – Petition approved by the Secretary of State
• May 2, 2024 – 340,000 signatures collected, nearly double the 171,592 required.
• Aug 13, 2024 – Ballot certification confirmed
• Nov. 5, 2024 – Amendment 2 passed by just 2,961 votes (50.05% to 49.95%)

The campaign was one of the most expensive in the state’s history. DraftKings, FanDuel, and professional sports teams contributed $45.5 million to support the measure, while Caesars spent $14.2 million in opposition.

What Makes Missouri Different

Here’s a round-up of Missouri’s unique features, compared to its neighbors:

• Low 10% tax rate, compared with 36% in Pennsylvania, and 20% in Ohio and Maryland
• Credit card payments are allowed, unlike in Tennessee
• 25% cap on promotional deductions
• Professional sports teams control 400-yard “sports districts” around venues
• Operators will all launch simultaneously, so no one gets a head start.

Regulatory Implementation Timeline

The Missouri Gaming Commission has been working hard to build the state’s regulatory framework. Here’s how the rollout has taken shape:

• January 2025: The First draft of regulations was submitted by the MGC
• February 2025: Emergency rules were rejected, delaying the launch by 6 months.
• August 15, 2025: The first two untethered licenses were issued to DraftKings and Circa Sports.
• August 30, 2025: Permanent regulations came into effect
• October 22, 2025: Seven more partnership-based licenses approved
• November 17, 2025: Pre-registration period will begin
• December 1, 2025: Sports betting officially goes live statewide

Missouri Gaming Commission

The betting landscape in Missouri is overseen by the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC), which regulates every aspect of the industry to ensure transparency, fairness, and player protection.

About the Missouri Gaming Commission

The MGC operates as a Type III division of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. It’s led by five commissioners, each appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Missouri Senate to serve staggered terms.

The current chair, Jan Zimmerman, was appointed in July 2023 and is the commission’s first female chair. Nikki D. Evans serves as the deputy director.

MGC’s Authority and Responsibilities

Licensing

Issue up to 14 mobile sportsbook and 19 retail licenses. For each of these operators, they conduct complete background checks to ensure integrity and compliance. The commission has the full right to revoke any licenses if the operator fails to meet specific terms and standards.

Rulemaking

Adopt regulations and set security and integrity standards to protect both operators and players. It also establishes responsible gaming requirements, encouraging bettors to gamble safely and within their limits.

Oversight

Monitor all betting activity within the state to ensure everything is operating lawfully. The Commission has the full right to investigate any suspicious behavior and coordinate with law enforcement when needed. They also have the final decision over which platforms are approved.

Tax collection

The MGC collects Missouri’s 10% tax on adjusted gross receipts (AGR) and can impose fines of up to $50,000 for violations. The commission also conducts regular audits and compliance checks.

Consumer protection

Manages the statewide self-exclusion program, ensuring participants are properly protected. The commission also oversees the Missouri Problem Gambling Fund, which supports education, treatment programs, and responsible gaming initiatives.

Additionally, the commission safeguards consumer funds with the goal of all deposits, withdrawals, and account balances remain secure and accessible.

Contact Information

• Physical Address: Missouri Gaming Commission 3417 Knipp Drive Jefferson City, MO 65109
• Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1847 Jefferson City, MO 65102
• Phone: (573) 526-4080
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday

Licensed Operators in Missouri

Missouri has a structured three-tier licensing system that allows for up to 14 online sportsbooks and 19 retail licenses to be issued. Each license type determines how a sportsbook can operate in the state.

Currently Licensed Sportsbooks

Untethered Licenses (2):

These operators can run independently without being partnered with a casino or sports team:

• 🏆 DraftKings
• 🏆 Circa Sports

Tethered Licenses (7):

These sportsbooks operate through partnerships with casinos or professional sports teams:

You can always verify active licenses through the official MGC website: https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/

License Structure

Mobile and online sportsbook operators are divided into two categories: those that operate independently and those that operate in partnership with a licensed entity.

Mobile/Online (Up to 14 Total):

• Untethered/Direct (2): These licenses allow sportsbooks to operate independently, without a partnership.
• Tethered (Up to 12): These require partnership with a licensed entity or professional sports team.

Professional Sports Teams (Up to 6):

Missouri will allow up to six professional teams to partner with sportsbook operators for online and retail betting.

Eligible teams include:

• Kansas City Chiefs, Royals
• St. Louis Cardinals, Blues
• Kansas City Current
• St. Louis City SC

Retail (Up to 19):

Retail licenses authorize brick-and-mortar sportsbooks at approved casino locations and within designated sports districts. These districts extend up to 400 yards from a team’s venue, allowing teams to operate physical sportsbooks near their stadiums or arenas.

Eligibility to Bet in Missouri

Basic Requirements

Anyone aged 21 years or older is legally allowed to bet in Missouri, as long as they’re physically located within state borders. Residency is not required, meaning both Missouri residents and visitors can bet.

To sign up, players must complete identity verification by submitting a government-issued photo ID.

Verification Process:

Before you can start betting and making withdrawals, you’ll have to complete the verification process. This simply involves uploading a photo ID, such as your driver’s license, passport, or state ID, and entering the last four digits of your SSN. You’ll also be required to enter your current physical address.

Keep in mind that geolocation technology will be used to ensure you’re physically within Missouri when betting.

Who Cannot Bet

The following individuals are prohibited from betting in Missouri:

• Anyone under 21 years old
• Self-excluded individuals who are enrolled in the Disassociated Persons List
• Any person restricted under the MGC rules and regulations

Please note that individual sportsbooks may have additional restrictions, such as banning athletes, coaches, referees, and other insiders from wagering.

Geolocation Requirements

Every wager must be placed within Missouri borders. Sportsbook will use GPS, Wi-Fi, and cell tower triangulation to confirm your location before your wager is processed. This technology is especially important near border areas with neighboring states such as Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky.

The use of VPN’s or proxy services is strictly prohibited; If detected, your access to the sportsbook will be blocked.

What You Can (and Can’t) Bet On

Bettors in Missouri will be able to place wagers on a wide range of markets while having access to a variety of bet types.

Allowed Sports and Bet Types

Most sportsbooks available in Missouri will allow you to place bets across major professional, college, and international competitions, including:

• Professional Sports: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, UFC/MMA, boxing, NASCAR, F1, tennis, golf.
• College: Football, basketball, baseball; Bets on individual player performances are strictly prohibited.
• International: Soccer, cricket, rugby, and the Olympics, along with other popular events.
• eSports: This will be subject to MGC approval.

Below, I’ve listed all the supported bet types:

• Moneylines, spreads, totals (over/under)
• Player props (except in-state college)
• Futures
• Parlays and Same Game Parlays (SGPs)
• Live/in-game betting
• Team props, season totals

Missouri College Betting Rules

Like in many other states, college betting is permitted; however, this comes with some important restrictions:

Tax Structure and Revenue Distribution

The 10% tax on sports adjusted gross revenue (AGR) will be spread out strategically.

Missouri’s 10% Tax Rate

The MGC will apply a 10% tax on AGR for sports betting, and this will be calculated like so:

Total wagers – customer payouts – allowable deductions = AGR

Operators will be taxed based on their earnings, and will not be handled as in Tennessee. Currently, Missouri’s 10% rate is well below the U.S average of 19%, making it one of the five lowest in the country. The rate is constitutionally mandated, meaning it cannot be changed without voter approval.

Promotional Deductions:

These will be capped at 25% of total wagers. Any losses incurred in a month can be carried forward to reduce taxes in future months.

Neighboring States Comparison

Revenue Distribution

Missouri will distribute its sports wagering tax funds according to a three-tier system, like so:

Tier 1 – MGC Expenses (First):

Estimated at around $5.2 million annually, the first part of the revenue will go to the MGC to cover all regulatory costs. This involves licensing, staffing, and monitoring.

Tier 2 – Compulsive Gambling Fund (Second):

The next will be used for problem gambling programs, and this is expected to be at least $5 million per year, or 10% of the remaining revenue (whichever is greater).

These funds will support treatment, prevention, and educational initiatives across Missouri.

Tier 3 – Education (Third):

The latter part of the revenue will proceed to K-12 public schools and higher education institutions. Missouri’s law includes no “non-supplant” restrictions, meaning these funds can be used to supplement existing education budgets rather than replace them.

Revenue Projections:

Here’s how Missouri’s sports betting revenue is expected to break down:

• Official Estimate: $0–$28.9 million annually
• Conservative Estimate: $12.8–$20.5 million annually
• Education Funding: Approximately $10–$20 million annually

Responsible Gambling and Consumer Protections

One of the biggest advantages of betting in a regulated market is the extensive resources available for responsible gambling. Here’s what you need to know.

Missouri Problem Gambling Helplines

Anyone who might be facing problems with gambling can reach out to the following professional resources:

Missouri State Helpline:

Operated by Life Crises Services, this is available 24/7 and is completely free and confidential.

• Landline: 1-888-BETS-OFF (1-888-238-7633)
• Email: [email protected]

National Helplines:

• 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537): A national resource providing confidential support, counseling referrals, and information for problem gamblers and their families.
• 1-800-522-4700 (NCPG): Offers 24/7 support networks, a range of self-assessment tools, access to treatment directories, and other educational materials.
• Text (800GAM) and Online Chat (1800gamblerchat.org): Great option for anyone who prefers to reach out via text.

Crisis Support:

For anyone at risk of suicide, they can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

Missouri Self-Exclusion Program

The MGC offers a statewide self-exclusion program, officially referred to as the Disassociated Persons Program (DAP). This was established in 1996, and once enrolled in it, it will prohibit you from accessing all forms of gambling within the state, both retail and online. This is an excellent option for anyone who would like to take a clean break from gambling.

How to Enroll:

There are three different ways you can enroll with the MGC. This includes:

• Online (available 24/7): Sign up via the MGC’s DAP Portal
• In-person: At any licensed Missouri gaming facility
• MGC office itself at 3417 Knipp Drive, Jefferson City | (573) 526-4080

Requirements:

To enroll in the program, you’ll need a government-issued photo ID, along with a current photograph for program records. Please note that participants must apply under their own free will and cannot be under the influence at the time of signing up.

Duration:

Enrollment in the DAP results in a lifetime exclusion from all legal gambling in Missouri. However, you have a one-time opportunity to petition for removal after five years. If you reapply to the program, your exclusion becomes permanent with no future option for removal.

Consequences:

Once enrolled, you are banned from all betting, whether online or in retail locations. Keep in mind that you can be charged with criminal trespass if found on the property while on the DAP list.

Operators are prohibited from sending you any marketing promotions, and you won’t be able to cash checks, receive credit, or collect winnings once enrolled. Any winnings earned while on the program are forfeited.

Removal Process:

To request removal, you must wait at least five years from your initial enrollment date. After that period, you can submit a removal application to the MGC, and then wait for a written confirmation before you’re legally allowed to resume betting.

Responsible Gambling Organizations

Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling (MACPG):

The MACPG is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about problem gambling and providing support to families and friends affected by gambling addiction.

• Helpline: 1-888-BETS-OFF
• Website: 888betsoff.org

Missouri Department of Mental Health:

Offers free outpatient treatment statewide for individuals struggling with problem gambling. Their certified counsellors are available at no cost to the client.

• Website: dmh.mo.gov/behavioral-health

National Council on Problem Gambling:

A national nonprofit organization that aims to increase public awareness of gambling disorders and resources for treatment and further education about problem gambling.

• Website: ncpgambling.org
• Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Mandatory Operator Requirements

All licensed sportsbooks in Missouri are required by the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) to promote responsible gambling and protect players. Operators must:

1. Confirm that players are 21 years old and located in Missouri.
2. Ensure their marketing and promotions are not targeted at minors.
3. All bonuses come with clear terms and conditions.
4. All problem gambling information, such as helplines and RG messages, is clearly displayed.
5. Integrate self-exclusion lists (DAP) to prevent access.
6. Provide responsible gaming tools, such as Activity trackers, Deposit limits, Wager limits, Time limits, Loss limits, Reality checks, Timeout/cool-off periods, and Self-exclusion options.

Payment Methods

Here’s all the information you need to know when it comes to making payments at Missouri gambling platforms:

Accepted Payment Methods

✅ You can make payments with all the following options:

• Credit cards (these are 100% allowed)
• Debit cards
• ACH transfers
• PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay
• Gift cards, prepaid cards
• Wire transfers
• Cash at retail locations

Potentially Allowed:

The MGC is discussing whether cryptocurrency payments might be supported in the near future. Currently, though, these are still not available.

Account Registration

Creating an account at the Missouri sportsbook is quick as long as you keep a few key things in mind.

Pre-Registration Period

On November 17, 2025, at 12:00 AM, bettors can start creating accounts and funding them. No bets can be placed until December 1st.

Registration Steps

Setting up an account with a sportsbook is quite straightforward and requires five steps:

1. First, you must choose a sportsbook that’s licensed by the MGC.
2. Next, you’ll need to click on the ‘Sign Up’ button and input your personal information, including name, date of birth, last four digits of your SSN, physical address, email, and phone number.
3. Then, you’ll need to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID. Please note that some sportsbooks may require you to upload a selfie.
4. At this point, geolocation will confirm that you’re actually located within state borders.
5. Finally, you’ll be able to start funding your account by heading over to the banking section. The minimum deposit you can make is typically between $5 to $10.

Troubleshooting Tips

Verification Issues:

To avoid problems during verification and further delays, ensure your ID photo is well-lit and all information is clear. Make sure that all the data you enter during the registration process matches the information on your ID, including your current address. Verification can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

Geolocation Issues:

Make sure location services are enabled on your device, and if possible, connect to Wi-Fi for more accurate location detection. When possible, avoid attempts near state borders, and make sure your VPN is switched off at all times. If an issue pops up, you should restart your device.

Common Problems:

Account Restrictions

One Account Per Platform

Although you can create accounts with a variety of sportsbook platforms, you can only make one account on each platform. Duplicate accounts are prohibited, and any violations of this rule can lead to the closure of your accounts and forfeiture of your funds.

Recent Regulatory Changes

Major Developments (2024-2025)

November 2024 – Amendment 2 Passes:

Missouri voters approved Amendment 2 by the narrowest margin in U.S. sports betting history: 50.05% to 49.95%, a difference of just 2,961 votes. This legalized sports betting in the state and laid the foundation for its regulation.

February 2025 – Emergency Rules Rejected:

Denny Hoskins, the secretary of state, rejected the MGC’s proposed emergency rulemaking. This decision delayed the expected launch from June to December 2025.

August-October 2025 – Licenses Issued:

DraftKings and Circa Sports received the first untethered initial licenses. On October 22, seven partnership-based licenses were approved.

Notable Enforcement

March 2024 – Fantasy Sports Cease-and-Desist:

MGC ordered operators to stop “player vs. house” pick’em contests because they were too similar to sports betting parlays. This mainly affected PrizePicks, DraftKings, and FanDuel. For this reason, operators switched to peer-to-peer formats, and those that became compliant later qualified for sports betting licenses when the market opened.

Upcoming Developments

December 1, 2025, Launch:

All operators, both retail and mobile, will go live simultaneously at 12:01 AM to all residents and visitors in Missouri.

Tax Rate Stability:

The constitutional amendment locks in a 10% sports betting tax rate, which cannot be changed without voter approval.

What Makes Missouri Different

Unique Features

1. Credit Cards Allowed

Unlike in Tennessee, players can make payments with credit cards. Since almost everyone has a credit card in their pockets, this gives players a lot of extra flexibility and convenience when funding their accounts.

2. Professional Sports Team “Sports Districts”:

Missouri has established 400-yard zones around major professional sports venues with capacities over 11,500. Within these zones, the teams control operator access and retail operations, a level of authority that no other state currently provides. This applies to venues including Arrowhead Stadium, Kauffman Stadium, Busch Stadium, Enterprise Center, CITYPARK, and CPKC Stadium.

3. 25% Promotional Deduction Cap:

Unlike in most states that allow full deductions or none at all, Missouri is setting a 25% cap. Negative promotional bonuses may be carried forward from month to month.

4. In-State College Player Prop Ban:

Betting on team outcomes is permitted; however, Missouri prohibits individual player prop bets on in-state college teams.

5. Simultaneous Launch:

On December 1 at 12:01 AM, all operators must launch simultaneously. This ensures that no operator gains an early advantage.

State Comparision

Feature	Missouri	Tennessee	Kansas	Illinois
Credit Cards	✅	❌	✅	✅
Tax Rate	10% revenue	1.85% handle	10% revenue	15-20% revenue
Promo Deductions	25% cap	Limited	Unlimited	Limited
College Player Props	Banned (in-state)	Allowed	Allowed	Banned (in-state)
Retail Betting	✅	❌	✅	✅

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Verifying Legal Sportsbooks

One significant advantage of playing in a regulated market is that it makes it very easy for you to find safe, secure platforms.

How to Verify

You can easily verify whether the MGC licenses a platform by cross-checking whether it’s included in the Official MGC list. Here are some other ways you can confirm this:

• MGC license number available on the website or app footer
• 21-plus notices are prominently shown
• Missouri helpline clearly displayed (1-888-BETS-OFF)
• Clear terms and conditions are available for all bonuses
• A full suite of responsible gambling tools is available

Report Illegal Sites:

To report an illegal site, you can reach out to:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: (573) 526-4080

By doing this, you’re helping the commission make Missouri a safer place to gamble for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does sports betting launch in Missouri?

Sports betting launches in Missouri on 1st December 2025. Bettors can start creating and funding their accounts on 17th November.

Do I need to be a Missouri resident?

Both residents and visitors can bet, as long as they’re within Missouri borders.

Can I bet on Missouri college teams?

Yes, you can bet on college sports teams; however, there is one strict restriction: individual player props are not allowed.

What’s the minimum betting age?

The minimum betting age is 21.

Can I bet from anywhere in Missouri?

Yes, as long as you’re physically in Missouri, you can bet anywhere.

Which sportsbooks are legal?

Currently, DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, Fanatics, bet365 and Circa Sports are legal.

How much does Missouri tax sports betting?

There is a 10% tax on sports betting.

Where does tax money go?

The tax revenue will support state programs, including the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund.

Can I bet on high school sports?

No, betting on high school sports is strictly prohibited.

How do I self-exclude?

You can sign up for the statewide self-exclusion program via the MGC’s DAP Portal or at the MGC physical site itself during regular hours.

Can I bet on Missouri pro teams?

Yes, this is allowed.

Is mobile betting legal?

Yes, mobile betting is 100% legal.

Do I pay taxes on winnings?

Yes, gambling winnings are subject to state tax.

Can I have multiple sportsbook accounts?

Yes, you can sign up with as many sportsbook accounts as you like; however, you can only have one account per sportsbook.

How do I file a complaint?

Complaints can be submitted to the Missouri Gaming Commission via their official website or by visiting their offices.

Can I bet from other states?

No, you cannot bet from other states; you must be physically located in Missouri.

Will more sportsbooks launch later?

Yes, more sportsbooks may launch in the future, as long as they obtain a license from the Missouri Gaming Commission.

Where can I get help for problem gambling?

Help is available through:

• Missouri Gaming Commission’s Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund
• Missouri Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-888-ASK-MGC1 (1-888-275-6421)
• National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

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