Golf has plenty of rules — enough to fill an entire handbook. But you don’t need to know every single one to play the game properly. If you’re new to golf (or just a bit rusty), there are a handful of core rules and etiquette tips that will keep you playing fair, staying safe, and earning a thumbs-up from your playing partners.
Here’s a straightforward look at the rules that matter most when you’re out on the course.
1. Play the Ball as It Lies
This is one of the game’s oldest rules. In short: don’t move your ball to a better spot. If it ends up in a tricky lie — behind a tree, in a divot, or deep in the rough — you’ve got to play it from there.
Exception: If your ball is in a designated relief area (like a cart path or casual water), you may get a free drop. But generally, you play it as it lies.
2. Don’t Touch the Sand Before You Hit
If your ball lands in a bunker, you’re not allowed to touch the sand with your club or hands before you hit. That includes practice swings. Touching the sand early is considered “testing the surface” — and that’ll cost you a penalty.
Play it straight, take your shot, and don’t forget to rake the bunker when you’re done.
3. You’ve Got 3 Minutes to Find a Lost Ball
Once you arrive at the area where your ball went missing, you have three minutes to look for it. If you can’t find it in time, you take a one-stroke penalty and re-hit from where you last played.
Tip: If you think your ball might be lost, you can play a “provisional ball” just in case. It saves time and keeps you moving.
4. Out of Bounds = Stroke and Distance
A ball that goes out of bounds (usually marked with white stakes or lines) means a one-stroke penalty and a return to your previous spot. You can’t just drop it near where it crossed the line.
This is another moment where a provisional ball can come in handy — hit one before leaving the tee if there’s a chance your first one flew OB.
5. Relief From Water and Other Hazards
If your ball ends up in a penalty area (such as a lake or ditch), you’re allowed to drop a new ball outside the hazard, with a one-stroke penalty.
Red and yellow stakes have different rules for where you can drop, but the basic idea is the same: take your penalty, drop within the guidelines, and play on.
6. Mark Your Ball on the Green
When your ball is on the green, use a coin or marker to mark it before lifting it to clean or move it. Always return it to the same spot.
In casual rounds, the order of putting is usually relaxed, but in official play, there are rules about turn-taking and ball interference — so it’s good to build good habits early.
7. Don’t Hit Until It’s Safe
If there’s someone ahead of you or within range of your shot, wait. Simple as that. If your ball ever heads toward another group by accident, shout “FORE!” loudly to warn them.
8. Stick to 14 Clubs Max
You’re allowed to carry up to 14 clubs in your bag during a round. Most beginners won’t need that many, but if you’re borrowing clubs or mixing sets, it’s something to keep in mind.
9. Play in the Right Order (Ready Golf)
Traditionally, the player farthest from the hole plays first. But in casual games, “ready golf” speeds things up. If you’re ready to play and it’s safe to go, take your shot.
On the green, however, most players still stick to the traditional order — especially in matches or competitions.
10. Keep Pace with the Group Ahead
Slow play can frustrate everyone. Try to stay close to the group in front of you — not just ahead of the group behind. Be ready when it’s your turn, keep practice swings short, and don’t be afraid to pick up your ball if you’re out of the hole in a casual round.
And a Few Etiquette Basics
Not official rules, but just as important:
- Stay quiet while others hit
- Don’t walk across someone’s putting line
- Repair your divots and pitch marks
- Rake the bunker after your shot
- Keep your phone on silent
- Offer to help look for lost balls when appropriate
Closing Thoughts
You don’t need to know every rule to enjoy the game, but understanding the basics makes the experience better for everyone — especially you. It helps your round move smoothly, builds good habits, and keeps the game fair and respectful.
If you’re ever unsure about something, ask a playing partner or check the rulebook between holes. Golf is meant to be challenging, but it should always be enjoyable too.
And the more you play, the more these rules will become second nature.
