When Are You Allowed to Use a Golf Rangefinder or GPS?

Golf Rule BookThe use of golf laser and GPS rangefinders has become so widespread, that you might not even realize that they are NOT always allowed.

Golf’s ruling bodies, the United States Golf Association (USGA) and Britain’s R&A, have established that beyond the rules of golf that are always in effect, certain “local rules” may be adopted by the local committee. The use of distance measuring devices has long been prohibited by the rules of golf, but in 2006, the USGA and R&A adopted Rule 14/3b, which allowed for the use of rangefinders if specified by “local rule”. Many golf courses have “Local Rules” printed on their scorecard for everyday play and most golf tournaments will have a “Local Rules Sheet” specifying the applicable rules.

The PGA, LPGA and most of the other professional golf tours do no utilize the local rule, so that’s why you don’t see Tiger Woods or Stacy Lewis using one on the weekend. However, you can bet that they and their caddies are using them during preparation and practice rounds. For it’s own tournaments, the USGA also does not allow the use of rangefinders.

The LPGA Legends Tour does allow rangefinders, as do many State Opens. The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA), which runs tournaments for the top junior players in the world, does not allow rangefinders. High School golf associations have had to address the issue and it may vary from state to state or tournament to tournament.

If you compete in tournaments, you will definitely want to check the rules sheet or ask the committee before you tee it up. Club organizations and leagues usually have rules that are always in effect and if you’re unsure, check with the committee or local golf professional

If you’re just playing for fun, check the scorecard for a local rule. If it’s not there and you have any bets, you and your opponents can make the decision together or have the local pro decide. If there are no bets, that’s when you become your own committee and decide that the rangefinder local rule is definitely in effect!

Even with the local rule in effect, certain types of rangefinders are not legal under any circumstances. Get more information in “Is Your Golf Rangefinder Legal“.

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