If you’re new to golf or returning after a break, understanding the fundamental rules is essential for an enjoyable and fair game. Here are 10 key golf rules every beginner should know:
- Maximum of 14 Clubs
You’re allowed to carry up to 14 clubs during a round. Exceeding this limit can result in penalties. - No Sharing Clubs
Sharing clubs with other players is prohibited, except in specific team formats like foursomes or fourball, provided the total number of clubs doesn’t exceed 14. - Bunker Restrictions
When your ball is in a bunker, you must not touch the sand with your club before making the stroke. This includes practice swings and grounding the club behind the ball. - Out of Bounds (OOB)
If your ball lands out of bounds, indicated by white stakes or lines, you must take a one-stroke penalty and replay the shot from the original position. - Three-Minute Search Time
You have three minutes to search for a lost ball. If not found within this time, it’s considered lost, and you must take a penalty stroke and replay the shot. - Provisional Ball
If you believe your ball may be lost or out of bounds, you can play a provisional ball to save time. You must declare it as a provisional before playing it. - Unplayable Ball
If your ball is in a position where you cannot play it, you may declare it unplayable and take a one-stroke penalty. You then have options for relief, including dropping the ball within two club-lengths or going back to the previous spot. - Playing from the Teeing Area
In stroke play, if you play a ball from outside the designated teeing area, you incur a two-stroke penalty and must replay the shot from within the teeing area. - Repairing Ball Marks
You can repair ball marks and old hole plugs on the putting green, but not on the fringe or fairway unless local rules permit. - Scorecard Responsibility
It’s your responsibility to ensure your scorecard is accurate. If you sign for a lower score on a hole than you actually made, you will be disqualified.
Understanding these rules will help you navigate the course confidently and enjoy the game. For more detailed explanations and additional tips, you can refer to Golf Monthly’s comprehensive guide: .