Rules of Golf

The United States Golf Association (USGA), in conjunction with the R&A in St. Andrews, Scotland, writes, interprets and maintains the Rules of Golf to guard the tradition and integrity of the game. Beginning on Jan. 1, 2019, the USGA and R&A’s new Rules of Golf will go into effect. Both organizations serve as the authors and owners of The Rules of Golf and Decisions on the Rules of Golf.

Moving forward, the Rules will be presented in three separate print formats listed below, as well as through various digital entities.

Publications

The Rules of Golf: A full version covering all of the playing Rules.

The Player’s Edition: A shorter, more user-friendly version of the Rules, written for you, the player.

The Official Guide to the Rules of Golf: Replaces Decisions book and provides long-form guidance to assist with officiating and administration.

Full text of all publications are available on the Rules of Golf App for iOS and Android

CDGA Basic Rules of Golf Workshops

As an Allied Golf Association of the USGA, the CDGA is your local resource for Rules of Golf knowledge. The CDGA will administer numerous two-hour Basic Rules of Golf Workshops throughout the District in 2022, which are complimentary for CDGA members to attend. (MORE INFO)

Major Rules of Golf Changes Presentation

At the 2019 Chicago Golf Show, CDGA Senior Managing Director, Jodi Ciotti took the Main Stage to discuss the key changes with the new Rules of Golf in effect this year.

USGA Resources

The USGA has compiled a variety of digital elements to serve as resources regarding the Rules of golf and changes for 2019.

Full Rules of Golf: The entire Rules of Golf can be accessed online by players and officials.

Major 2019 Changes: An outline of the most significant changes to the Rules of Golf.

Visuals: Infographics, charts and papers to further explain golf’s new Rules.

Rules of Golf Explained: Videos from USGA staff demonstrating aspects of the Rules.

USGA Education Opportunities

In addition to the CDGA workshops, CDGA members can bolster their Rules knowledge in numerous ways.

PGA/USGA Workshops: The PGA of America and USGA conduct various multi-day workshops throughout the country.

Rules Quizzes: Customized quizzes to test your Rules knowledge.

USGA FAQs: Search the USGA database for Rules questions by keyword or specific Rule.

Amateur Status

The USGA collaborates with the R&A to write and maintain the Rules of Amateur Status. Amateur golfers, whether playing competitively or for recreation, play golf for the challenge it presents, not as a profession or for financial gain. (MORE INFO)

Have a Question?

If you have any questions about the Rules of Golf, reach out to the CDGA Championship Department at (630) 685-2315 or cwadelin@cdga.org.