Who Tees Off First in Golf?

TL;DR

The player with the lowest score on the previous hole tees off first, the first tee is by draw or agreement, and casual rounds often use ready golf.

Key Takeaways

• First tee: order decided by agreement, draw, or tournament rules.
• After first hole: player with lowest score (honors) tees off first.
• Ties: keep same order as previous hole.
• Casual play: many groups use ready golf (whoever is ready hits).
• Match play: order matters strategically (Rule 6.4).

What Determines Who Tees Off First?

The player who tees off first is the one with the lowest score on the previous hole, this is called having the “honor.” If players tie, the order stays the same as the last hole.

On the first tee, there’s no score yet, so order is decided by a draw, by the scorecard listing, or simply by agreement among the group. In stroke play, the honor system continues throughout the round. In match play, the winner of the previous hole tees off first, and if the hole is tied, the same order is used.

In casual rounds, many golfers use “ready golf” instead, whoever is prepared and safe to hit goes first, to help speed up play. This makes the game more enjoyable and keeps pace moving without worrying too much about strict order.

Exceptions and Alternatives

The main exception to the honor system is “ready golf”, where any player who is ready and safe to hit can tee off first. This is common in casual rounds and is encouraged to speed up play.

Another alternative is courtesy teeing order, where a group might let beginners, guests, or seniors go first regardless of score. In tournaments or match play, order is stricter, but even then players can agree to change it if everyone consents.

In match play specifically (Rule 6.4), hitting out of turn gives the opponent the right to cancel the shot and require a replay in the correct order. In stroke play, however, playing out of turn is not a penalty if it’s done safely.

Common Mistakes Players Make

The most common mistakes are forgetting the honor rule, ignoring ties, playing out of turn in match play, and refusing to use ready golf.

• Forgetting the honor rule: Many beginners don’t realize that the lowest score on the previous hole tees off first. This can cause confusion or even tension in competitive rounds. To avoid it, always check the scorecard and confirm who has the honor before stepping up.
• Ignoring ties: When two or more players tie a hole, the correct order is to keep the same sequence as before. Some players mistakenly reset or randomize the order. The simple fix is to remember: ties mean no change.
• Playing out of turn in match play: In match play, order is strategic, and hitting out of turn lets your opponent cancel your shot and make you replay. To avoid this mistake, confirm whose turn it is before hitting, especially on tight or competitive holes.
• Refusing to use ready golf: In casual stroke play, some golfers slow down the group by waiting for “honors” even when they’re ready. This hurts pace of play. The solution is to embrace ready golf whenever it’s safe and agreed upon, keeping the round enjoyable for everyone.

Avoiding these mistakes keeps the game fair, speeds up play, and helps everyone enjoy the round more. Now that you know the pitfalls, let’s look at some pro tips golfers use to stay on top of tee order and pace.

Pro Tips for Golfers

The best pro tips are agreeing on tee order, using ready golf wisely, keeping track of scores, and respecting match play rules.

• Agreeing on tee order: Before the round starts, decide who will go first on the opening tee. This avoids confusion and makes the game flow more smoothly. In tournaments, follow official procedures; in casual rounds, a quick agreement works fine.
• Using ready golf wisely: In friendly or stroke play rounds, whoever is ready and safe should tee off first. This keeps the pace moving. Just make sure no one is in danger and that everyone in the group knows you’re hitting.
• Keeping track of scores: Always confirm the previous hole’s scores so it’s clear who has the honor. This prevents disputes and ensures the correct order is followed. A simple scorecard check before stepping onto the tee is enough.
• Respecting match play rules: In match play, turn order matters strategically. Playing out of turn gives your opponent the option to cancel your shot. To avoid this, communicate clearly with your playing partner and wait until it’s officially your turn.

By following these tips, you’ll always knowwho tees off first in golf and handle tee order with confidence, keep the pace moving, and show proper golf etiquette in every round.

FAQs

What if everyone tied the last hole?

The order stays the same as the previous hole. No reshuffling is needed, which keeps the flow consistent.

Does the rule change in match play vs. stroke play?

Yes. In stroke play, playing out of turn is fine if safe, but in match play your opponent can cancel the shot if you hit out of order.

Can we just rotate for fun?

Absolutely. In casual golf, groups can agree on any system they like, including rotating or letting beginners go first, as long as it keeps the game enjoyable.