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Maybe it's you, or maybe it's someone you love who can't put the phone down on game day. Either way, this is what Washington, D.C. offers: the rules, how to block yourself from sportsbooks and where to get help today.
Washington, D.C. at a glance
| Online sports betting | Yes, through licensed apps |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 18 |
| Regulator | D.C. Office of Lottery and Gaming |
| Statewide self-exclusion | D.C. Self-Exclusion Program |
| How to sign up | Online, at a sportsbook, or by appointment |
Is sports betting legal in Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C. allows sports betting online and at licensed sportsbooks. It started in 2020. Washington, D.C. allows sports betting at 18, which is younger than most states. Some sportsbooks set their own minimum of 21. Betting is overseen by the D.C. Office of Lottery and Gaming.
How to self-exclude from sports betting in Washington, D.C.
You can't count on willpower at 1 a.m. after a bad beat. Self-exclusion means you don't have to, because the sportsbooks are required to say no for you.
In Washington, D.C., the main option is the D.C. Self-Exclusion Program.
- It covers licensed sportsbooks, online and mobile betting, and all D.C. gambling, including the D.C. Lottery.
- You choose 1 year (the minimum), 18 months, 3 years, 5 years, or lifetime in certain circumstances.
- You can apply online, at a licensed sportsbook, or by appointment at the Office of Lottery and Gaming.
- Once you're on the list, you can't shorten your term. Removal afterward isn't automatic; you have to request it.
Also self-exclude inside each sportsbook app you've used, usually under account settings or responsible gaming. It takes effect right away and covers you while the state program processes.
Want help closing each account one by one? Start with the big three sportsbooks, then work through the rest.
Good to know in Washington, D.C.
- D.C. law allows betting at 18, but some sportsbooks require you to be 21.
The games that hit hardest in Washington, D.C.
Home teams carry the most money and the most feeling. In Washington, D.C., that's the Washington Commanders, Washington Wizards, Washington Mystics and Georgetown Hoyas. Treat their games like a trigger, because they are one, and set your plan the day before instead of at kickoff.
More on this in watching sports after you quit.
Put more walls between you and a bet
Every step you put between you and a bet helps on a bad night.
- Put a blocker on your phone and computer, and have someone else hold the passcode. See how to block sports betting apps.
- Take saved payment methods off every betting site and lower your daily ATM and transfer limits.
- Behind on bills? NFCC.org can match you with a nonprofit credit counselor.
Free help in Washington, D.C.
- Treatment and support in Washington, D.C.: the National Council on Problem Gambling lists resources for Washington, D.C., including state-funded and low-cost options where they exist.
- People who get it: a GA meeting costs nothing, and you can join online from anywhere in the state. Not sure GA fits? Compare it with SMART Recovery.
- Counselors: a counselor who specializes in gambling can make a real difference. Find Help lists counselors, online therapy and programs that serve Washington, D.C..
- A person to talk to tonight: call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738). It's free, confidential and open around the clock.
- In crisis: call or text 988, or call 911 if you're in immediate danger.
If you love someone who bets in Washington, D.C.
If it's your partner, child or friend who's betting, start with yourself: separate your money, check your credit report, and find support at Gam-Anon. Then read how to help someone with a gambling problem before you talk.
FAQ
What's the legal sports betting age in Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C. allows sports betting at 18, which is younger than most states. Some sportsbooks set their own minimum of 21.
How do I self-exclude from sports betting in Washington, D.C.?
You can apply online, at a licensed sportsbook, or by appointment at the Office of Lottery and Gaming.
Does self-excluding from one app cover every sportsbook in Washington, D.C.?
No. Excluding inside one app only blocks that app. The D.C. Self-Exclusion Program is what covers licensed operators across Washington, D.C., so use both, and add a blocker for offshore sites that ignore state programs.
Is there gambling rehab in Washington, D.C.?
We don't list a gambling-specific inpatient or intensive program inside Washington, D.C. yet. Outpatient counseling is available through the state's problem gambling resources and online therapy, and some residential programs in other states accept people from anywhere. See your options on Find Help.
Sources: D.C. Office of Lottery and Gaming: self-exclusion program; Fox Sports: where sports betting is legal (May 2026); Bleacher Nation: states with an 18+ betting age (May 2026); National Council on Problem Gambling: help by state; NCPG: 1-800-MY-RESET. Checked October 2026. Rules and programs change, so confirm current details on the official page before you rely on them. Unbettable isn't affiliated with any sportsbook, casino or state agency.
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