Golf has a reputation for being steeped in tradition, and much of that tradition comes down to etiquette. Good etiquette is not about being stiff or overly formal, it is about respecting the course, the game, and the people you are playing with. Whether you are new to golf or have played for years, brushing up on these fundamentals will make every round more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Pace of play
Keep up with the group ahead
One of the most important etiquette rules is maintaining pace of play. Your group should generally stay within sight of the group ahead of you. If a gap opens up, it can slow down everyone behind you as well.
Be ready when it is your turn
Use the time while others are hitting to plan your own shot, select your club, and get ready to play as soon as it is your turn. Avoid unnecessary practice swings or long deliberations over club selection.
Play a provisional ball when appropriate
If you think your ball may be lost or out of bounds, hit a provisional ball before walking forward. This saves the group from having to return to the tee if the original ball cannot be found.
Let faster groups play through
If your group is playing slower than the group behind you and there is an opening ahead, it is courteous to wave the faster group through, especially on a par 3 or when you are searching for a lost ball.
Course care
Repair divots
After hitting a shot from the fairway or rough, replace the divot or fill it with sand and seed mixture if the course provides it. This helps the turf recover and keeps the course in good shape for other golfers.
Fix ball marks on the green
Every ball that lands on the green leaves a mark. Learn to repair ball marks properly, using a divot tool to gently push the edges of the mark back toward the center rather than prying it up, which can damage the roots.
Rake bunkers after use
After hitting from a sand bunker, rake the area to smooth out footprints and the divot from your shot. Enter and exit the bunker from the lowest point when possible to minimize disturbance, and leave the rake outside the bunker or in the location specified by the course.
Avoid driving carts too close to greens and tees
Cart paths and course markings often indicate where carts should and should not go. Staying off sensitive areas near greens, tees, and bunkers helps protect the turf.
On the green
Do not step in another player's line
The area between another player's ball and the hole is called their line. Be mindful of where you walk on the green so you do not step on anyone's line, as this can affect how their putt rolls.
Keep your shadow off the line
Similarly, try not to let your shadow fall across another player's line while they are putting.
Tend or remove the flagstick appropriately
If someone asks you to tend the flagstick, hold it lightly and remove it cleanly once the ball is struck. Be aware of current rules regarding the flagstick, since players are now allowed to putt with the flagstick left in the hole if they choose.
Stay quiet and still during others' shots
Whether on the tee, fairway, or green, avoid talking, moving, or making noise while another player is about to hit. This applies to phone notifications as well, so consider keeping your phone silent during the round.
Safety
Never hit until it is safe
Make sure the group ahead is out of range before hitting your shot. If you hit a shot that may be heading toward another player, yell "fore" immediately and loudly to give them a chance to react.
Be aware of your surroundings
Pay attention to where other golfers are standing, both in your own group and on adjacent holes, before taking a swing.
Dress and behavior
Follow the course dress code
Many courses have specific dress codes, which can include requirements around collared shirts, appropriate footwear, and restrictions on denim or athletic shorts. Check the course website or call ahead if you are unsure.
Manage your emotions
Golf can be frustrating, but etiquette calls for keeping frustration in check. Avoid throwing clubs, using excessive language, or otherwise disrupting the experience for others on the course.
Be considerate with your phone
Limit phone use to necessary calls or brief moments, and keep the volume low. Extended phone conversations while playing can slow down the group and disturb others nearby.
Cart etiquette
Follow cart path rules
Some courses require carts to stay on the path at all times, while others allow carts on the fairway with certain restrictions such as the 90-degree rule. Always follow the posted rules for the day.
Park carts thoughtfully
Position carts so they do not block other players' paths to the green or the next tee, and avoid parking directly behind greens.
Tipping and interactions with staff
Thank the starter and staff
A simple thank you to the starter, ranger, and pro shop staff goes a long way. If a forecaddie or bag attendant assists you, following the course's customary tipping practices is appreciated.
Etiquette with new or less experienced players
Offer guidance kindly
If you are paired with a beginner, offering a quiet, friendly tip about pace of play or where to stand can help them feel more comfortable rather than singled out.
Be patient
Everyone was a beginner once. Slower play or uncertainty about etiquette is common for newer golfers, and a patient attitude helps keep the round enjoyable for the whole group.
Etiquette during group play and outings
Introduce yourself
When playing with people you do not know well, a quick introduction at the first tee sets a friendly tone for the round.
Keep score honestly
Whether playing casually or in a more competitive format, keep an honest scorecard. Integrity in scoring is one of the most respected traditions in golf.
Respect the format of the day
If you are playing in a scramble, best ball, or other group format, make sure you understand the rules before starting so the group can move efficiently and fairly.
Why etiquette matters beyond the rules
Good etiquette is ultimately about respect. It shows respect for the course that other golfers will use after you, respect for the people you are playing with, and respect for the traditions that make golf a game people return to for a lifetime. New golfers should not feel intimidated by these guidelines. Most experienced players are happy to offer friendly reminders, and picking up etiquette naturally becomes part of playing more rounds.
Play more golf
Practicing good etiquette makes you a welcome addition to any group, and TeeLinkUp can help you find more chances to put it into action. Connect with other golfers in your area, join open tee times, and build a network of playing partners who share your respect for the game.