Search

Types of Gambling Licenses (2026): B2C, B2B, Casino and Betting Explained

Not all gambling licenses are the same. One of the biggest mistakes operators make is treating licensing as a single category, when in reality there are multiple types of licenses designed for different business models, products, and markets.

Understanding the different types of gambling licenses is essential before choosing a jurisdiction or starting an application process.

What Are the Different Types of Gambling Licenses?

Gambling licenses can be divided into several categories depending on how the business operates, what products it offers, and which markets it targets.

At a basic level, licenses are structured around:

  • who the business serves (players or other businesses)
  • what products are offered
  • how regulation is applied
  • how fees are structured

For a general overview, see our guide to gambling licenses.

B2C vs B2B Gambling Licenses

B2C (Operator License)

B2C licenses are issued to companies that offer gambling services directly to players, such as online casinos, sportsbooks, or betting platforms.

  • casino operators
  • sports betting platforms
  • poker sites

These are the most common licenses in the industry. [oai_citation:0‡InPlaySoft](https://inplaysoft.com/knowledgebase/online-gambling-licenses-importance-different-types-and-main-ones-in-the-market?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

B2B (Supplier License)

B2B licenses are issued to companies that provide services to operators rather than directly to players.

  • game providers
  • platform providers
  • payment processors

These licenses allow companies to operate legally within the gambling ecosystem without running a gambling site themselves. [oai_citation:1‡InPlaySoft](https://inplaysoft.com/knowledgebase/online-gambling-licenses-importance-different-types-and-main-ones-in-the-market?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Types of Licenses by Product

Licenses are also categorized based on the type of gambling activity offered.

Casino License

Allows operators to offer slot games, table games, and live dealer products. [oai_citation:2‡iGamingX](https://igamingx.com/gambling-license/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Sports Betting License

Covers betting on sporting events, including pre-match and live betting. [oai_citation:3‡iGamingX](https://igamingx.com/gambling-license/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Poker License

Often treated separately due to the skill-based nature of poker. [oai_citation:4‡iGamingX](https://igamingx.com/gambling-license/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Lottery and Bingo License

Typically regulated separately due to their structure and social impact. [oai_citation:5‡iGamingX](https://igamingx.com/gambling-license/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Some jurisdictions combine multiple verticals under a single license, while others require separate approvals. [oai_citation:6‡altenar.com](https://altenar.com/blog/gaming-licences-which-one-should-you-get-in-2024/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Types of Licenses by Regulation Model

Local (Regulated Market) Licenses

These licenses are required to operate in specific countries or states and come with strict regulatory requirements.

Example:

Offshore (International) Licenses

These licenses allow operators to target international markets but may not grant access to locally regulated jurisdictions.

Examples:

Types of Licenses by Cost Structure

Fixed-Fee Licenses

Operators pay a fixed annual or monthly fee regardless of revenue.

Revenue-Based Licenses

Fees are based on gross gaming revenue (GGR), meaning costs scale with business performance. [oai_citation:7‡InPlaySoft](https://inplaysoft.com/knowledgebase/online-gambling-licenses-importance-different-types-and-main-ones-in-the-market?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

How to Choose the Right License Type

Choosing the right license is not about picking a category in isolation. It depends on:

  • target markets
  • business model (B2C or B2B)
  • budget
  • compliance capability

For a full strategic breakdown, read our iGaming licensing guide.

Common Mistakes

  • confusing B2B and B2C licenses
  • choosing a license based only on cost
  • ignoring local market requirements
  • underestimating compliance obligations

Related Guides

FAQ

What are the main types of gambling licenses?

The main types include B2C (operator) licenses, B2B (supplier) licenses, and product-specific licenses such as casino and sports betting.

What is the difference between B2C and B2B licenses?

B2C licenses are for operators serving players, while B2B licenses are for companies providing services to operators.

Can one license cover multiple products?

In some jurisdictions, yes. In others, separate licenses may be required for different gambling activities.

Home Menu