Can I use my phone to check distances or view the course while playing?

Yes, you can use your mobile phone to check distances and view the course layout during a round. Rule 4.3a permits distance-measuring devices, but you cannot use features that measure elevation changes, recommend clubs, or gauge wind at the course.

What your phone can do

You may use a phone or app to get yardages to the green, hazards, or lay-up spots. Looking at a course map or hole layout on the screen is also allowed — that counts as directional information. The rule treats your phone the same as a laser rangefinder or GPS watch for these basic functions.

Local Rules can change this

A Committee may adopt Model Local Rule G-5 to ban all distance-measuring devices, including phones. If that Local Rule is in effect, you cannot use your phone for any distance or directional information. Always check the notice board or the competition's terms of play before you tee off.

Exceptions that change the answer

• Committee adopts Model Local Rule G-5 → All distance-measuring devices, including phones, are prohibited for distance and directional information.
• Phone app provides elevation-adjusted yardages or club recommendations → Using those features is a breach of Rule 4.3a even if the device itself is allowed.

Frequently asked questions

Is viewing a hole map or flyover on my phone allowed?

Yes. Looking at a course layout, hole map, or flyover video on your phone counts as permitted directional information.

What if my phone shows wind speed from a weather app?

Checking a weather forecast for wind is allowed, but measuring actual wind speed at the course with your phone's sensors or an external device is not allowed.

Can I use my phone to record my shots and distances for later analysis?

Yes. Recording playing information like club distances and statistics during the round for use after the round is explicitly allowed.

What is the penalty if I use a prohibited phone feature?

First breach: general penalty (two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play). Second breach: disqualification.