Let’s be honest. Golf’s rulebook can feel like it was written in another language. But the good news is you don’t need to memorize all 200-plus pages of golf rules to enjoy your round.
If you’re newer to the game, there are just a handful of rules you actually need to know. These are the ones that come up all the time on the course and knowing them can save you from penalties, confusion, or awkward moments with your playing partners.
Let’s break it down.
Before You Swing
You’re Allowed 14 Clubs
What it is:
Every round of golf is played with a maximum of 14 clubs in your bag.
Why it matters:
If you carry more than 14, it’s a two-stroke penalty for each hole where the extra club was used. Most golfers never have this issue, but if you’re testing clubs or trying something new, give your bag a quick count.
Tee Up Between the Markers
What it is:
When you start a hole, your ball needs to be teed up between the two tee markers and no more than two club lengths behind them.
Why it matters:
Teeing up in the wrong spot can result in a penalty before your round even gets going. Make sure your feet and your ball are inside the markers.
What to Do When Things Go Wrong
Lost Ball
What it is:
You have three minutes to find your ball. If it’s not found in time, it’s considered lost.
What to do:
Go back to where you last hit from and replay the shot. You add one penalty stroke, so your next swing is your third shot if it was from the tee.
Tip for casual play:
Some groups use a local rule where you drop near where the ball was lost and add two strokes instead. It’s faster and keeps things fun.
Out of Bounds
What it is:
Out of bounds is marked by white stakes or fencing. If your ball crosses that line, it’s not playable.
What to do:
You must go back to the original spot and replay the shot, with a one-stroke penalty. That stroke would be your third.
Helpful habit:
If there’s a chance the ball is out of bounds, hit a provisional ball right away so you don’t have to walk back later.
Provisional Ball
What it is:
A backup ball you hit in case your first is lost or out of bounds.
How to do it right:
Say clearly that it’s a provisional before you hit. If you find your original ball, you can pick up the provisional and keep playing without penalty.
Relief Situations
Cart Paths and Sprinkler Heads
What it is:
If your ball is on a cart path or next to a sprinkler head, you get a free drop.
What to do:
Find the nearest spot where there’s no interference with your stance or swing. Drop within one club length of that spot, no closer to the hole.
Red-Staked Penalty Areas
What it is:
These usually mark water hazards, but can include any area defined by red stakes or lines.
What to do:
You can either:
- Play the ball as it lies (if possible)
- Drop within two club lengths of where it entered the area, with a one-stroke penalty
- Or drop behind the hazard, keeping the point where it crossed between you and the hole
On the Green
You Can Leave the Flag In
What it is:
You’re allowed to putt with the flagstick in or out of the hole.
Why it matters:
It’s all about personal preference. Some players feel more confident with it in. Others take it out. Either way is fine.
Marking Your Ball
What it is:
Place a coin or ball marker behind your ball before picking it up on the green.
Why it matters:
If you move your ball without marking it, that’s a one-stroke penalty. Simple habit, but important to get right.
Accidentally Moving Your Ball
What it is:
If you accidentally bump your ball or marker on the green, there’s no penalty.
Why it matters:
Just move it back to where it was. This used to be a penalty, but not anymore.
Playing With Others
Play Ready Golf
What it is:
Whoever is ready to hit should go, as long as it’s safe.
Why it matters:
It keeps the group moving and makes the round more enjoyable for everyone.
Always Play Your Own Ball
What it is:
Seems obvious, but in a group where people play the same brand, it’s easy to mix things up.
Why it matters:
Hitting the wrong ball is a two-stroke penalty in stroke play. Always identify your ball before the round and mark it if needed.
Don’t Improve Your Lie
What it is:
You can’t move, press down, or improve the area around your ball to make the shot easier.
Why it matters:
Golf is based on playing the ball as you find it. Trying to “help” your lie can lead to a penalty and a few raised eyebrows.
Scorekeeping and Casual Round Guidelines
Every Stroke Counts
What it is:
Any time the club hits the ball, it counts. Even if it barely moves. Even if it’s a whiff.
Why it matters:
Golf is a game of honesty. Count every swing, even the ones you’d rather forget.
You Have to Hole Out
What it is:
In stroke play, you must finish the hole by putting the ball into the cup.
Why it matters:
No “gimme” putts in official formats. In casual rounds, agree beforehand if you’re giving putts inside a certain distance.
Maximum Score (Casual Rounds)
What it is:
Many golfers play with a “double par” or “triple bogey max” rule to keep things moving.
Why it matters:
If you’re having a rough hole, it’s okay to pick up after a certain number. Just be sure the whole group is on the same page.
Final Thoughts
Golf doesn’t need to be intimidating. You don’t have to know every rule to play the game with confidence. These basics will get you through 95 percent of situations you’ll face out on the course.
Be honest. Keep pace. Know how to handle drops and penalties. And if you’re not sure about something, ask. Most players will respect that you care enough to get it right.