How do I play two balls when I'm unsure of the procedure in stroke play?

Yes, you can play two balls in stroke play when you're unsure of the right procedure. You must announce which ball you want to count before making a stroke, then report the facts to the committee before returning your scorecard.

When and how to play two balls

If you're uncertain about the right procedure while playing a hole in stroke play, you may complete the hole with two balls without penalty. Before making a stroke at either ball, you must announce to your marker or another player that you're playing two balls and which one you want to count if the rules allow it. If you don't choose in time, the first ball played counts by default. You then play out the hole with both balls.

What happens after the round

Before returning your scorecard, you must report the facts to the committee, even if both balls produced the same score. The committee will apply the rules to each ball and determine which score counts. If you chose a ball that the rules don't allow, the other ball's score stands — provided you played it correctly. If neither ball was played correctly, the committee decides based on the first serious breach.

Exceptions that change the answer

• You have already played a provisional ball → The provisional ball becomes your second ball under this rule — you cannot play a third ball.
• You're playing match play → Playing two balls is not allowed. If you do it anyway, the original ball's score counts if you and your opponent refer it to the committee and they didn't object.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to announce which ball I want to count?

Yes. Before making a stroke at either ball, you must announce that you're playing two balls and which one you want to count. If you don't, the first ball played is treated as your chosen ball.

What if both balls give me the same score?

You still have to report the situation to the committee before handing in your scorecard. They'll confirm which ball was played correctly and that score stands.

Can I play two balls in match play?

No. Rule 20.1c(3) only applies to stroke play. In match play, you and your opponent must resolve the issue or refer it to the committee — playing a second ball isn't an option.

What if I chose the wrong ball to count?

If the committee rules that your chosen ball wasn't allowed under the rules, the other ball's score counts instead — but only if you played that ball correctly. If both were played incorrectly, the committee decides based on the first serious breach.

Does a provisional ball count as my second ball?

Yes. If you've already played a provisional ball and then decide to play two balls under Rule 20.1c(3), that provisional ball becomes your second ball. You can't play a third one.