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If you're trying to stop sports betting in Maryland, start with the tools your state already gives you. Below is how to lock yourself out of the sportsbooks here and where to find free support for you or someone you love.
Maryland at a glance
| Online sports betting | Yes, through licensed apps |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 21 |
| Regulator | Maryland Lottery and Gaming |
| Statewide self-exclusion | Maryland Voluntary Exclusion Program |
| How to sign up | In person in most cases |
| Gambling treatment programs | Maryland Center of Excellence provider map |
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Maryland allows sports betting online through mobile apps and in person at casinos and other licensed sportsbooks. It started in 2021 in person, with mobile apps since November 2022. You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in Maryland. Betting is overseen by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming.
How to self-exclude from sports betting in Maryland
Self-exclusion is a ban you place on yourself. Once you're on the list, licensed sportsbooks have to close your accounts and turn you away, even on a night you'd talk yourself into one more bet.
In Maryland, the main option is the Maryland Voluntary Exclusion Program.
- It covers all Maryland-regulated sports betting, including casino and mobile sportsbooks. Excluding with just one sportsbook only blocks that one.
- You choose at least 2 years or lifetime.
- In most cases you sign up in person, at the Baltimore headquarters by appointment or at a Maryland casino. Sports wagering sign-up at a casino needs no appointment.
- There's no early removal. After 2 years, removal requires a written request and proof that you completed an approved assessment or treatment program.
- It's free.
Do the app-by-app exclusions the same day you apply. A state list is the big lock, and the in-app settings are the quick ones that work tonight.
For a full walkthrough, including the national program and each major app, see how to self-exclude from sports betting.
Game days in Maryland
Most bets get placed during games, not before them. In Maryland, that means games involving the Baltimore Ravens, Washington Commanders, Baltimore Orioles and Maryland Terrapins are where your plan has to hold. Pick the games you'll watch this month and decide who you'll watch with. When it's close late, put the phone in another room.
Preakness Stakes bring boosted odds, office pools and friends asking if you're in. Have your answer ready before the day gets here.
More on this in watching sports after you quit.
Block the apps and protect your money
A list is one wall. Add two more:
- Your phone: a gambling blocker plus locked app-store settings, so a bad night can't end with a reinstall. How to set that up.
- Your money: delete saved cards, turn on purchase alerts and ask your bank whether it can block gambling charges. For debt, NFCC.org connects you with nonprofit credit counseling.
Free help in Maryland
You don't have to pick the perfect option. Pick one and start this week.
- State-funded help: many states pay for gambling counseling. The National Council on Problem Gambling keeps a list of resources for Maryland.
- Therapy: look for someone who treats gambling specifically, in person or online. Find Help sorts the options for Maryland.
- The national helpline: 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), by call or text, any hour. You don't have to be in crisis to use it.
- Meetings: find a Gamblers Anonymous meeting in person, online or by phone, or compare GA and SMART Recovery.
- In crisis: call or text 988, or call 911 if you're in immediate danger.
Gambling treatment programs in Maryland
When weekly sessions aren't enough, a program with more hours each week can help. These treat gambling specifically. Nobody pays us to list them.
- Maryland Center of Excellence provider map (Maryland). Find free gambling counseling across Maryland, including telehealth-only options.
Not sure what level of help fits? The app asks a few questions and points you to it.
If you love someone who bets in Maryland
Only the person betting can sign up for self-exclusion. What you can do is protect your own accounts, avoid covering their losses, and bring it up calmly instead of in the middle of a fight. This guide walks you through the conversation, and Gam-Anon offers free support for you.
FAQ
What's the legal sports betting age in Maryland?
You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in Maryland.
How do I self-exclude from sports betting in Maryland?
In most cases you sign up in person, at the Baltimore headquarters by appointment or at a Maryland casino. Sports wagering sign-up at a casino needs no appointment.
Does self-excluding from one app cover every sportsbook in Maryland?
No. Excluding inside one app only blocks that app. The Maryland Voluntary Exclusion Program is what covers licensed operators across Maryland, so use both, and add a blocker for offshore sites that ignore state programs.
Can I get treatment for gambling in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland Center of Excellence provider map treats gambling specifically. Many people start with outpatient counseling first, and Maryland's problem gambling program can help you figure out which level fits. See your options on Find Help.
Sources: Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling: voluntary exclusion program; Fox Sports: where sports betting is legal (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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