Sports Betting in Tennessee
Tennessee was the first US state with online-only sports betting (no retail option).
Tennessee launched online sports betting on November 1, 2020, becoming the first US state with no retail betting option whatsoever - every wager is mobile-only. The market is competitive with 10+ licensed mobile operators including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, theScore Bet, BetRivers, Fanatics, and Hard Rock Bet. Tennessee historically had a unique 10% tax on handle (rather than gross gaming revenue), but this was changed in mid-2023 to a 1.85% privilege tax on handle, which is now the only state to tax handle rather than revenue. The mobile-only structure reflects Tennessee's lack of commercial casinos and the legislature's reluctance to authorize retail venues.
Key Facts
- Launched November 1, 2020 - first US state with no retail sports betting
- 10+ licensed mobile operators
- No commercial casinos in Tennessee - the structural reason for online-only
- 1.85% privilege tax on handle (changed from 10% on handle in 2023)
- Only US state that taxes handle rather than gross gaming revenue
Legal Sportsbooks in Tennessee
Notable Restrictions
- No retail sports betting - mobile only
Responsible Gambling in Tennessee
Minimum betting age: 21. Tennessee problem gambling helpline: 1-800-889-9789 (24/7, free, confidential). See our responsible gambling resources for self-exclusion options and warning signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Tennessee sports betting launch?
November 1, 2020 - making Tennessee the first US state with online-only sports betting (no retail option).
Why is Tennessee online-only?
Tennessee has no commercial casinos. The legislature opted to launch a mobile-only market rather than authorize new casino infrastructure.
What sportsbooks are legal in Tennessee?
10+ licensed mobile operators including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, theScore Bet, BetRivers, Fanatics, and Hard Rock Bet.
How does Tennessee tax sports betting?
Tennessee charges a 1.85% privilege tax on handle (total wagers) - the only US state that taxes handle rather than gross gaming revenue. This was changed from 10% on handle in mid-2023.
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