Can a spectator give me line of play help?

No, a spectator cannot give you line of play help except in two specific cases. They may point out public information like a tree marking a blind fairway's center line, or stand as a target off the green but must move away before you swing.

What the rule says

Rule 10.2b(2) is clear: you must not get help with your line of play or other directional information from anyone other than your caddie. That includes spectators, playing partners, coaches, or anyone else watching. The rule exists because picking your line and aiming is part of the challenge you're supposed to handle yourself.

The two exceptions that are allowed

First, a spectator may give you public information about an object — for example, pointing out a tree that marks the center of a blind fairway. That's not advice; it's just stating a fact anyone could see. Second, when your ball is not on the putting green, a spectator may stand in a spot for you to aim at, but they have to move away before you make your stroke. On the green, even that is not allowed.

If a spectator keeps trying to help

Interpretation 10.2a/2 says if someone shouts a line or aim point without you asking, there's no penalty the first time. But if the same person keeps doing it, you have to try to stop them. If you don't, you're treated as if you asked for the advice, and you get the general penalty — two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play.

Exceptions that change the answer

• Spectator points out a fixed object anyone can see (tree, bunker, marker) that indicates the line → Allowed — this is public information, not directional help
• Ball is off the green and spectator stands as a target for you to aim at → Allowed only if they move away before you start your stroke

Frequently asked questions

Can a spectator tell me where to aim on a blind tee shot?

Only if they're pointing out a fixed object everyone can see, like a tree marking the center of the fairway. They cannot say 'aim at me' or 'aim left of that bunker' — that's directional help and not allowed.

What if a fan yells 'aim at the flag!' from the gallery?

First time, no penalty if you didn't ask. But if the same person keeps doing it and you don't try to stop them, you're treated as asking for advice and get the general penalty.

Can my playing partner stand behind me to show the line?

No. Rule 10.2b(2) applies to any person other than your caddie. A playing partner cannot stand on your line or point out a target, even briefly.

Is it different on the putting green?

Yes. Off the green, a spectator can stand as a target if they move before you swing. On the green, even that is prohibited — no one but your caddie can help with line or aim there.

What's the penalty if I accept line help from a spectator?

General penalty: two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play. If it happens between holes, the penalty applies to the next hole.