Golf has three main levels of penalty: one stroke, the general penalty (two strokes in stroke play or loss of the hole in match play) and disqualification. Knowing which applies in common situations helps you score correctly and avoid surprises. Here's a quick reference.
This is a summary. Refer to the official Rules of Golf for full details.
One-stroke penalties
| Situation | Notes |
|---|---|
| Relief from a penalty area | Read penalty areas and out of bounds |
| Unplayable ball | Read golf trouble shots |
| Lost ball or out of bounds | Stroke and distance |
| Moving your ball at rest (when not allowed) | Replace the ball. Read ball moved at rest |
| Lifting your ball on the green without marking it | Replace the ball |
The general penalty
Two strokes in stroke play; loss of the hole in match play. Examples:
- Playing a wrong ball. Read playing the wrong ball.
- Playing from a wrong place.
- Improving the conditions affecting your stroke.
- Giving or asking for advice. Read advice and caddie rules.
- Touching the sand in a bunker in breach of the rules. Read golf bunker rules.
- Hitting another ball at rest on the green from the green (stroke play). Read putting green rules.
- Carrying too many clubs (per hole, with a maximum). Read conforming golf equipment.
Disqualification
For serious breaches, such as returning a lower score, failing to correct a wrong ball in stroke play, or making a stroke with a non-conforming club. Read common golf disqualifications.
No penalty
- Accidental double hit (counts as one stroke).
- Your ball accidentally hitting you or your equipment.
- Accidentally moving your ball while searching or on the green.
- Ball hitting the flagstick when putting.
Read golf rules myths.
Penalties and scoring
Add penalty strokes to your score on the hole. In Stableford, they reduce your net score's points. Read how golf scoring works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the general penalty in golf?
Two strokes in stroke play or loss of the hole in match play.
What is a one-stroke penalty for?
Usually for taking relief, such as from a penalty area or an unplayable lie.
Is a double hit a penalty?
No. It counts as one stroke.
When are you disqualified in golf?
For serious breaches such as signing for a lower score.
The bottom line
Know the three levels: one-stroke penalties for relief, the general penalty for breaches, and disqualification for serious errors. For more, read golf rules every golfer should know.