Arizona Announces a New Licensing Cycle for Sports Betting Brands

Request Submission: Deadlines

Arizona’s regulatory body has announced that the application period for sportsbook licences will commence on June 26th. The submission window will remain open until July 10th, 2026, closing at 5:00 PM local time.

A minimum of 2 permits will be reserved: 1 for the state’s tribal organisations and 1 for sports franchise partners. Cliff Holden, ADG’s Assistant Director of Certification and Licensing, highlighted the authority’s dedication to protecting clients and thoroughly reviewing all potential permit holders.

Licensing Dynamics

Arizona’s lawful sports betting market was launched in 2021 following the approval of legislation, permitting up to 20 certificates to be granted. Of these, 10 were allocated to the local tribes and the other half to partners of professional sports organisations.

Although there was significant business interest at the start, the number of active licence holders has steadily decreased. Today, 14 certified operators function within the state, generating substantial income for the local treasury.

Recently, several famous brands have exited the jurisdiction:

• Betway;
• WynnBet;
• SuperBook Sports;
• Fubo Sportsbook, etc.

The Department periodically relaunches the certification process whenever vacant positions become available within the state. The last licensing cycle was held in summer 2024. The regulator especially emphasises that applications will only be considered during the designated window, and any requests submitted after July 10th will not be eligible for the current round.

Market Scope: Financial Metrics

Following the official authorisation of event stakes, Arizona has emerged as one of the leading sportsbook markets in the US. The ADG reports that since 2021, total accepted bets have amounted to $33.9 billion, generating $179.9 million in special fees for the state budget.

By the end of 2025, wagering revenue had surpassed $713 million. Currently, Arizona’s betting volume is the 6th-largest among all US jurisdictions.

As of now, the following well-known international brands operate within the state:

• FanDuel;
• BetMGM;
• DraftKings;
• Fanatics, etc.

The new certification cycle is unfolding at a time when the betting sphere is undergoing significant transformation, with consolidation among sportsbooks and the rise of prediction markets, both of which directly influence the balance of power and the operating conditions for future licensees.

Nevertheless, Arizona remains among the most attractive American bookmaker hubs, thanks to its high turnover, transparent regulation, and licensing opportunities.

Gaminator’s specialists regularly monitor the situation in the most promising jurisdictions to equip operators with the information needed to launch a successful, profitable gambling business.