How to Switch a Golf Ball During a Hole

Changing a golf ball during a hole can be done legally and illegally. The USGA Rules of Golf provide that any ball deemed unfit for play can be substituted without penalty. This applies to cut or cracked golf balls during play of a hole. However, some golfers are not above board with their ball switches. The rules of the game provide full relief -- and the opportunity to switch balls during the hole -- for any ball damaged during the course of play.

Instructions

  1. Switching by the Rules

    • 1

      Identify your golf ball. You want to be sure that you are trying to switch out your ball, not your competitor's.

    • 2

      Mark the position of your golf ball, then lift the ball off the ground. By rule, you are not allowed to touch a ball in play without marking its position.

    • 3

      Confirm that the ball is unfit for play. This type of ball can be cut or cracked through the cover. Balls that are scuffed by a cart path, depending on the severity, are typically not determined to be unfit for play.

    • 4

      Declare your intentions to your competitors. If your request is legitimate, they should have no problem allowing for the substitute.

    • 5

      Pull a new golf ball from your golf bag. Announce to your playing companions that you intent to place the new ball in play.

    • 6

      Drop the golf ball as close as possible to the spot where the original ball lay. Stand erect and extend the dropped ball out over the spot at shoulder's length. Unless the ball is on a putting green, where you would place the ball on the spot, this is the procedure to follow. Your ball is now in play.