Can you hit a few putts on the green you just finished? Can you chip a ball while waiting on a tee? Can you play the course before a competition on the same day? The rules on practice catch out many golfers. Here's a plain-English guide.
This is a summary. Refer to the official Rules of Golf and local rules for details.
Practice swings vs practice strokes
- Practice swing: a swing without hitting a ball. Allowed at any time, within limits.
- Practice stroke: hitting a ball. Restricted during a round.
Read making practice swings count.
During a hole
You may not make practice strokes at any ball, on or off the course, while playing a hole.
Between holes
Unless a local rule prohibits it, you may practise putting or chipping:
- On or near the putting green of the hole you just completed.
- On any practice green.
- On or near the teeing area of the next hole.
But not from a bunker, and not in a way that unreasonably delays play. Read pace of play.
Before or between rounds
- Match play: you may generally practise on the course before a round.
- Stroke play: on the day of a competition, you generally must not practise on the course before your round. Practising on the putting green or chipping area near the first tee is usually allowed.
Read common golf disqualifications.
During suspensions
When play is suspended, you may practise as the committee allows.
Penalties
Practising when not allowed usually results in the general penalty (two strokes in stroke play or loss of the hole in match play). Practising on the course before a stroke play round is a general penalty for a first breach and disqualification for a second.
Etiquette
Even when allowed, practising between holes can slow play; only do it if the course is clear behind you. Read practice green etiquette.
Frequently asked questions
Can I hit a practice putt after holing out?
Generally yes, on or near that green, unless a local rule prohibits it and it doesn't delay play.
Can I practise on the course before a competition?
In stroke play, generally not on the day of the competition; check the terms.
Are practice swings allowed during a round?
Yes, as long as they don't improve your conditions or delay play.
What's the penalty for practising during a hole?
The general penalty.
The bottom line
Practice swings are fine; practice strokes during a hole aren't. Between holes, limited putting and chipping is usually allowed, and stroke play competitions restrict on-course practice beforehand. For more rules, read golf penalties explained.