Licensing of betting operators in Ireland

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:

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.

    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,

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.