How we check the rules

Every rules page on Golf Rules Guide is written from the official rulebook, in our own words. We never copy the rule text or the official diagrams; we explain the rule and link to the source.

What each page shows

• The short answer first.
• The rule number it follows, and the rulebook edition.
• The date we last checked it against the official text.
• Where leagues or levels differ, when they do.

Calculators

Calculators run in your browser; nothing you type is sent anywhere. Every formula is tested against the official worked examples before it goes live, and each result shows the inputs and the formula used. Where an official body issues the real number (a handicap, for example), our result is an estimate.

When a rulebook changes

Rulebooks change on their own schedules. When a new edition is announced, we publish what changed and update every page it affects before the new rules take effect.

The rulebooks we follow

• Rules of Golf, R&A and USGA (2023 edition)
• Rules of Handicapping, USGA and R&A (2024 edition)

Not an official ruling

Explained in our own words, not an official ruling: in a competition, the committee, league or umpire decides, and local rules apply.

Found a mistake? Email hello@golfrulesguide.com.