Rule 8: Advice; Indicating Line of Play

Definitions

 

All defined terms are in italics and are listed alphabetically in the Definitions section – see pages 2235.

 

8-1. Advice

 

During a stipulated round, a player must not:

 

a. give advice to anyone in the competition playing on the course other than his partner, or

 

b. ask for advice from anyone other than his partner or either
 of their caddies.

8-2. Indicating Line of Play

 

a. Other Than on Putting Green

 

Except on the putting green, a player may have the line of play indicated to him by anyone, but no one may be positioned by the player on or close to the line or an extension of the line beyond the hole while the stroke is being made. Any mark placed by the player or with his knowledge to indicate the line must be removed before the stroke is made.

 

Exception: Flagstick attended or held up – see Rule 17-1.

 

b. On the Putting Green

 

When the player’s ball is on the putting green, the player, his partner or either of their caddies may, before but not during the stroke, point out a line for putting, but in so doing the putting green must not be touched. A mark must not be placed anywhere to  indicate a line for putting.

 

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:

 

Match play – Loss of hole; Stroke play – Two strokes.

 

Note: The Committee may, in the conditions of a team competition (Rule 33-1), permit each team to appoint one person who may give advice (including pointing out a line for putting) to members of that team. The Committee may establish conditions relating to the appointment and permitted conduct of that person, who must be identified to the Committee before giving advice.