Golf Rules

Rule 1: Preparing for the Game

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Equipment: Bringing the right equipment is part of the rules in a game of golf. There is a limit of 14 clubs in each golfer's bag. And typically borrowing clubs from other players is not advisable. Make sure you also have plenty of golf tees and golf balls. If it's your first time out, there's a good chance you’ll be losing some balls and you'll want to be prepared to replace them. Dress Code: Typically golf courses require collared shirts and dress pants or khaki shorts. It is also a good idea to wear golf shoes. A golf glove is optional, although may not be a bad thing to have in your bag to prevent blisters on your hands. Tipping: Find out if tipping is common practice. If you are playing at a private course, it is often necessary to tip cart jockeys, people running beverage carts, caddies, etc. Tee Time: Before showing up at a course, you'll always want to call ahead to reserve a tee time. Then, once a tee time is reserved, make sure you are on time. If a tee time is missed, your group may lose its spot.

Rule 2: The Basics

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The holes on the course must be played in order, either 1 through 9, or 1 through 18. Always use your correct handicap. Mark your ball so you will be able to identify it on the course. You may only strike the ball with the head of the club. You may not push, scrape or rake the ball, or hit the ball while it is moving.

Rule 3: Teeing off — Who Goes First?

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Place your ball between the tee markers, usually small colored cones. The ball can be even with the markers or up to two clubs lengths behind them, but never in front.

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The player who has "honors" tees off first. For the first hole, his can be determined randomly. On remaining holes, the player with the best score on the preceding hole typically goes first. On all other shots from the tee markers to the green, the player whose ball is furthest from the hole plays first.

Rule 4: How to Play Your Ball

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