A bookmaker’s licence is required by law to accept bets from the public in Ireland, whether through a physical location, online, or at sporting venues. These licences are currently regulated under the Betting Act 1931, ensuring bookmakers operate legally within the country.
Please note: The information provided on this page, and website, is intended as a general guide and does not constitute professional or legal advice. It should not be assumed that the guidance is exhaustive, nor should it be relied upon as a definitive solution for all circumstances. Readers should always seek their own legal or professional advice.
Types of Bookmaker Licences
In Ireland, there are four main types of bookmaker licences:
- Retail Bookmakers Licence:
For individuals or businesses that operate a betting shop where bets are taken on physical premises. Further details are available by clicking here. - Remote Bookmakers Licence:
Required for businesses that provide betting services online or via telephone. This licence covers operators who accept bets remotely from customers in Ireland. Further details are available by clicking here. - Remote Betting Intermediary Licence:
This licence is for platforms that facilitate betting between parties (such as a betting exchange) but do not directly participate in the placement of bets. Further details are available by clicking here. - On-Course Bookmakers Licence:
If you plan to operate at racecourses or approved sporting events, you’ll need an On-Course Bookmakers Licence. Importantly, on-course bookmakers must also obtain a Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) permit, in addition to their Revenue Bookmaker’s Licence. The HRI permit is required to operate legally at horse racing events in Ireland.
Steps to Apply for a Bookmaker’s Licence
We have outlined the steps to obtain a Bookmaker’s licence in Ireland below. Please note, if the application is for a betting shop(s), you will need to seek a Certificate of Suitability of Premises and Certificate of Registration for each betting shop you intend to operate. Full details can be found by clicking here,
- Obtain a Certificate of Personal Fitness:
All applicants must obtain a certificate of personal fitness, demonstrating they are suitable to hold a bookmaker’s licence. This certificate can be secured from the Garda Síochána or from the Department of Justice for non-residents. - Apply for Tax Clearance:
A valid tax clearance certificate is required to confirm that you are up to date with your tax obligations. This can be applied for through Revenue’s online services. - Submit Your Application to Revenue:
Once you have your certificate of personal fitness and tax clearance, you can submit your bookmaker’s licence application via Revenue’s Online Service (ROS). The application must include:- Completed application form.
- Proof of identity and address.
- Your certificate of personal fitness.
- Your tax clearance certificate.
- The applicable fee.
- Apply for a Horse Racing Ireland Permit (for On-Course Licence):
On-course bookmakers are also required to apply for a permit from Horse Racing Ireland (HRI), which authorizes them to operate at horse racing events. This permit is an essential step if you wish to take bets at racecourses. - Pay the Relevant Fee:
Fees for bookmaker licences vary depending on whether you are applying for a retail, remote, intermediary, or on-course licence. Up-to-date fee structures are available on the Revenue website.