Vermont is the 29th US state to launch online sportsbooks. Three operators went live at midnight on Thursday, allowing bettors to get in on the action before the start of the NFL playoffs on Saturday.

While Vermont is the second least-populated state in the country, officials estimate that the activity could generate $7m in tax revenue in its first year. This figure could rise as high as $18m annually as the market matures. People need to be at least 18 years old to place wagers and users cannot add funds to their accounts using a credit card.

chose Fanatics, FanDuel, and DraftKings as the recipients of licenses

Vermont Governor Phil Scott signed sports betting legislation into law in June and the Department of Liquor and Lottery chose Fanatics, FanDuel, and DraftKings as the recipients of licenses in December. ESPN Bet and BetMGM were unsuccessful bidders even though the regulator was authorized to issue up to six licenses.

The next state that looks set to launch online sports betting is North Carolina, with the expectation that it will happen in time for the popular March Madness college basketball tournament.