Official betting is a type of sports wagering that’s regulated by the states in which it takes place. It’s a great way to bet on your favorite teams and win big. But, there are a lot of things to keep in mind before you start placing your bets.

Betting on sports is one of the most popular pastimes in the United States, and despite its reputation as a Las Vegas gambling hub, it has spread across the country since the Supreme Court struck down PASPA. The first regulated sportsbooks launched after the ruling, and now 56% of Americans live in states that offer legal betting options.

The rules for betting on sports in the United States differ by state, but they all require that bettors place bets with a legal bookmaker. Most of these sportsbooks have online and mobile apps. The apps let bettors track their balance and make deposits and withdrawals. They also feature live streaming of events and other features to enhance the betting experience.

In general, a bet is placed by choosing a team to win or lose and the number of points that will be scored in the game. A bet on the winner is called a moneyline bet, while a bet on the total number of points scored is known as a point spread bet.

NCAA officials are screened for criminal charges and convictions related to gambling and sports betting before they can be assigned to a postseason event. This includes in-uniform personnel, coaches and staff.