North Dakota Gambling License & Online Casinos
North Dakota is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States. The state is home to a small but growing gambling industry that includes casinos, horse racing, and charitable gaming. In recent years, the state has also considered legalizing online gambling, which could further expand the industry. In this article, we will explore the current state of online gambling, casinos, and betting in North Dakota, as well as the application process, cost of licenses, types of gambling allowed, taxation, compliance requirements, market size, challenges and opportunities, local laws and regulations, payment processing, and gambling addiction resources.
Application process in North Dakota
The North Dakota Racing Commission oversees all gambling activities in the state, including casinos, horse racing, and charitable gaming. The commission is responsible for issuing licenses to all gambling operators, including online gambling platforms.
To apply for a license, operators must first submit an application to the commission. The application must include detailed information about the operator’s business, including financial information, ownership information, and information about the types of gambling activities the operator plans to offer. Once the application is submitted, the commission will review it and determine whether to grant a license.
Cost of the license in North Dakota
The cost of a license in North Dakota varies depending on the type of gambling activity being licensed. For example, the initial license fee for a casino is $25,000, while the annual renewal fee is $5,000. The license fee for horse racing is $1,000 per day of racing, while the fee for charitable gaming is $50 per event.
Types of gambling allowed in North Dakota
North Dakota allows a variety of gambling activities, including casinos, horse racing, and charitable gaming. There are currently six tribal casinos in the state, as well as a number of charitable gaming establishments. Horse racing is also legal in the state, with races taking place at the North Dakota Horse Park in Fargo.
There is currently no legislation allowing online gambling in North Dakota, but there have been discussions about legalizing it in the future.

Taxation in North Dakota
Gambling operators in North Dakota are subject to a variety of taxes and fees. For example, casinos are required to pay a tax of 5% on gross gaming revenue, as well as a 2% tax on hotel room revenue. Horse racing operators are required to pay a tax of 1% on handle, while charitable gaming operators are required to pay a tax of 2.5% on gross receipts.
Compliance requirements in North Dakota
Gambling operators in North Dakota are subject to a variety of compliance requirements, including background checks on all key personnel, ongoing financial reporting, and regular inspections of gaming equipment. Operators must also comply with all state and federal laws regarding money laundering and terrorist financing.
Market size and growth potential in North Dakota
The market size for gambling in North Dakota is relatively small compared to other states. According to the North Dakota Gambling Commission, the state’s gaming revenue was around $277 million in 2019. However, the state has seen steady growth in its gambling industry in recent years, with revenue increasing by 4.4% from 2018 to 2019.
The growth potential of North Dakota’s gambling industry is somewhat limited due to the state’s small population and limited number of casinos. However, the state has recently allowed for the expansion of sports betting, which could provide a boost to the industry. Additionally, the legalization of online gambling could further increase revenue for the state.

Challenges and opportunities in North Dakota
One of the biggest challenges facing North Dakota’s gambling industry is competition from neighboring states. Many North Dakotans travel to Minnesota, South Dakota, and Montana to gamble, which results in lost revenue for the state. However, the recent expansion of sports betting could entice more residents to stay in the state to gamble.
Another challenge is the limited number of casinos in North Dakota. The state currently has only six casinos, which can make it difficult for businesses to succeed in the industry. However, the state has been considering the possibility of allowing more casinos to open, which could provide more opportunities for businesses and bring in more revenue.
Local laws and regulations in North Dakota
In North Dakota, all forms of gambling are legal except for online gambling. The state has a lottery, horse racing, charitable gambling, and six tribal casinos. Additionally, the state recently passed a bill to legalize sports betting, which was signed into law in March 2021.
To operate a casino in North Dakota, businesses must apply for a license through the North Dakota Attorney General’s office. The application process includes a background check and a review of financial information. Businesses must also comply with state regulations regarding the operation of casinos, such as age restrictions and responsible gambling measures.
Payment processing in North Dakota
Payment processing for gambling in North Dakota is similar to other states. Casinos typically accept cash, credit and debit cards, and electronic payment methods such as e-wallets and bank transfers. However, some payment methods may not be available for online gambling due to the state’s prohibition on the activity.
Gambling addiction resources in North Dakota
North Dakota offers resources for those who struggle with gambling addiction. The state operates a helpline that provides information and support to individuals and families affected by problem gambling. Additionally, the state offers self-exclusion programs for individuals who wish to ban themselves from casinos or other gambling establishments.