Can someone help me position my wheelchair before I swing?

Yes, anyone can help you position your wheelchair before you swing. Rule 25.4a explicitly allows a player using an assistive mobility device to get physical help from any person — including another player — to position the player or the device before making a stroke.

Who can help you

The rule says "any person" — your aide, your caddie, a fellow competitor, a spectator, or a marshal. There's no limit on who provides the physical assistance, and you don't need to authorize them in advance. This applies before every stroke, not just on the putting green.

What counts as positioning help

You can get help moving your wheelchair into place, adjusting your body position in the chair, or even removing the device entirely if you prefer to swing without it. The assistance covers both positioning you and positioning or removing the assistive mobility device itself.

No penalty, no strings

There's no penalty for receiving this help, and it doesn't count as advice or a breach of Rule 10.2. The modification exists because positioning a wheelchair or other mobility device can be physically difficult or impossible without assistance, and the Rules recognize that.

Frequently asked questions

Can another player help me position my wheelchair?

Yes, Rule 25.4a allows any person, including another player, to help position you or your device before a stroke.

Do I need to authorize them first?

No, unlike lifting a ball on the green, positioning help doesn't require prior authorization — anyone can assist at any time.

Can they also help me line up my putt?

No, positioning help is only for placing you or the device. Aligning your body or club for the stroke would be a breach of Rule 10.2b.

What if I use a cane or crutch instead of a wheelchair?

The same rule applies — Rule 25.4a covers all assistive mobility devices, including canes, crutches, and wheeled devices.

Can my aide and caddie both help at the same time?

Yes, Rule 25.4b confirms you can have both an aide and a caddie, and either can provide positioning help.