Rules on the course
Rangefinders, Slope, Audio and Golf Competition Rules
A device can have both permitted and prohibited uses. Its advertising label does not replace the Rules of Golf or an event’s restrictions.
Competitive Play · Updated October 22, 2026
Separate permitted and prohibited functions
Original worked cases
Read the information in layers
- 1
Raw distance
Ava measures 146 yards without elevation information.
Ordinarily permitted distance information; check adopted G-5.
- 2
Elevation or recommendation
The screen adds slope-adjusted distance or recommends a club for the ball location.
Those functions cross a different rule boundary.
- 3
Record versus interpret
Ben records this round’s club distances for later.
Using live round information to generate club recommendations differs.
- 4
Background versus assistance
Cara plays unrelated audio quietly.
Using audio to set swing tempo or eliminate distractions is prohibited.
Fictional examples for the stated conditions. Read the complete official provisions for exceptions and the procedure that applies to your actual ball.
The short version
- Distance information and measuring elevation changes differ.
- Current-round recording is different from processing it for playing advice.
- An adopted Local Rule may restrict distance devices or audio.
Audit the function you will actually use
Before starting, open the same device mode you intend to use on the course. Check whether it displays elevation changes, adjusted yardage or location-based club recommendations. Turning off one feature is useful only if the actual remaining use complies with the rule and event conditions.
Under Rule 4.3, obtaining distance information is generally allowed; measuring elevation changes is not. Model Local Rule G-5 allows a Committee to prohibit distance-measuring devices. “Tournament mode” is a product setting, not a universal event approval.
Data and audio need a purpose check
A pre-round yardage note and a live system interpreting your current-round distances are different inputs. Recording playing information for later use is allowed in the stated rule; processing current-round playing information for immediate recommendations is not.
Audio follows a similar distinction. Unrelated background material is different from a tempo aid or a tool to eliminate distractions. Courtesy to others still matters, and an adopted G-8 may impose further audio/video restrictions.
Training aids and medical uses are separate
An alignment rod used for general stretching is not the same action as using a training aid to improve preparation for a stroke. Setting an object down to help aiming also involves Rule 10.2b. Medical equipment questions should go to the Committee under the relevant provisions, rather than borrowing a general product review.
For competition practice permission, use practice before and during a round. For the opening tee, check starting-time requirements.
Official sources
Official provisions checked October 22, 2026. Read their full wording and current event conditions.
Your next move
Read the governing source
Check the complete official procedure and your event conditions before acting.
Read the governing source(Official source), opens in a new tab