License Name
Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission Casino and Sports Betting License
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Issuing Country/Region
United States – Iowa
Regulatory Body
Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC)
Types of Regulated Games
Casino games, sports betting, pari-mutuel racing, fantasy sports contests
Market Coverage
Local (State of Iowa)
Regulator's Reputation
Very Good
Legal Entity Requirements
Must be a licensed casino, racetrack, or gambling boat authorized to operate in Iowa
Directors and Shareholders Requirements
Subject to commission investigation and approval; background checks mandatory
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Requirements
Extensive AML procedures in accordance with state regulations
Reporting Requirements
Reports required as prescribed by the commission; financial and operational reporting
Audit Requirements
Compliance with audit standards required by the commission
Software Certification Requirements
Sports wagering systems must be certified by authorized labs (e.g., BMM Testlabs)
RNG Certification
Certification required for games utilizing random number generators
Payment System Requirements
Must comply with state-approved standards; credit card funding of sports betting accounts is prohibited
Server Location Requirements
Not explicitly specified
Domain Name Requirements
Not explicitly specified
Language Support Requirements
English required; no additional mandates stated
Currency Support Requirements
USD (assumed as only legal tender)
Background Checks
Extensive background investigations of all individuals involved in administration, conduct, and control of gambling
License Scope Restrictions
No betting on in-state collegiate athlete prop bets; no minor league or interscholastic event betting
Jurisdictional Tax Compliance
Must comply with Iowa tax laws for gambling operations
Cross-Border Operations
Betting and casino activity must occur within Iowa; must be physically located in-state to wager
License Application Transparency
Transparent requirements and public-facing licensing process
Video
License Cost
$45,000 initial sports betting license fee
Annual Fees
$10,000 annual renewal for sports betting license; occupational license fees $10–$20 depending on occupation
Income Taxes
6.75% tax on sports betting revenue
Player Winnings Taxes
Not specified
Financial Guarantees
Not specified
Financial Reporting Requirements
Financial reporting and disclosure as required by IRGC
Application Processing Time
Most occupational licenses processed within 1 day; sports betting license timing depends on application review
Required Documents
Completed application, background/fingerprint check documentation, supporting legal and technical documentation
Business Plan Requirements
Not explicitly stated but robust operational details typically required
Testing Requirements
Platform and software tested and certified by IRGC-authorized labs (e.g., BMM Testlabs)
Responsible Gaming Measures
Prominent responsible gaming features and information; operator must display statewide problem gambling helpline and implement required player protections
Self-Exclusion System
Mandatory participation in the statewide exclusion program for casinos, sportsbooks, fantasy, and online betting with five-year or lifetime exclusion periods
Age Verification Procedures
Minimum age 21, verification required before permitting wagering
KYC Procedures
Robust customer identification procedures required
Security Standards
Fairness and technical security standards as mandated by state rules; software and platforms evaluated pre-launch
Encryption Requirements
Secure digital communications required
License Duration
Sports betting and other IRGC-issued licenses typically valid for 1–3 years, subject to renewal
Official Address
Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, 1300 Des Moines Street, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States
FAQ Question 1
What is Iowa Casino and Sports Betting License?
FAQ Answer 1
The Iowa Casino and Sports Betting License authorizes the operation of land-based casinos, riverboat gaming facilities, and both retail and online sports wagering in the state of Iowa. It ensures that all gambling activities are conducted in compliance with state laws, integrity standards, and responsible gaming practices.
FAQ Question 2
Which jurisdiction issues Iowa Casino and Sports Betting License?
FAQ Answer 2
This license is issued by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC), the state regulatory agency overseeing casino gambling, sports betting, and pari-mutuel wagering on horse and dog racing within Iowa.
FAQ Question 3
What is the cost of obtaining Iowa Casino and Sports Betting License?
FAQ Answer 3
For sports wagering, the application fee is $45,000, with annual renewal fees of $10,000. Casino operator licenses require substantial application and background investigation fees, often determined by the scale of the project, along with annual regulatory fees based on gaming revenue. Additional costs include technology certification, compliance audits, and operational expenses.
FAQ Question 4
What are the main requirements for Iowa Casino and Sports Betting License?
FAQ Answer 4
Key requirements include completing a comprehensive application, passing background checks for all owners, executives, and key employees, providing proof of financial stability, and securing an approved gaming facility location. Licensees must implement internal controls, anti-money laundering programs, responsible gambling measures, and accurate reporting systems. They are also subject to ongoing inspections, audits, and strict compliance with all Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission regulations.