Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Maryland? (2026)
Yes — Daily Fantasy Sports is legal in Maryland as of 2026.
Law changed in 2012: Maryland legalized daily fantasy sports in 2012 and has been regulating it since. There have been no major recent changes.
Quick Answer
Daily Fantasy Sports are legal in Maryland. Maryland legalized daily fantasy sports in 2012 and has been regulating it since.
- Age restriction: 18+
What the Law Says
Maryland law exempts fantasy competitions from its gambling prohibitions and requires operators to register with the state, establishing a regulated and legal market.
— Md. Code, State Gov't § 9-1D-01
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| DFS Rules | Legal |
| Licensed Operators | Legal |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Minimum Age | 18+ |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Maryland legalized daily fantasy sports in 2012 and has been regulating it since. There have been no major recent changes.
Enforcement Reality
The Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency regulates fantasy sports and requires operators to be licensed.
Players may not be aware that only licensed operators are legal in Maryland.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maryland. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Daily Fantasy Sports is legal in Maryland. You can playing daily fantasy sports without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Maryland vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, playing daily fantasy sports is fully legal in 38 states, restricted in 7, and illegal in 5. Maryland falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Daily Fantasy Sports:
Sports Betting Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to sports betting and gambling laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is playing daily fantasy sports legal in Maryland?
Is DraftKings/FanDuel legal in Maryland?
What is the minimum age for playing daily fantasy sports in Maryland?
Interactive Tools
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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