Golf Cart Etiquette

If you’ve never driven a golf cart on a course before, you may not be aware of the unspoken rules regarding golf cart operation. Experienced golfers may know these rules, but a novice likely won’t know all the courtesies and expectations that golf cart operators are expected to adhere to. In order to avoid offending or irritating others, or putting them in danger, you’ll want to educate yourself on golf cart etiquette before you hit the greens. This guide by Richmond Equipment should set you down the right path to operating a golf cart like a professional.

90 Degree Rule

You may see signs on the golf course regarding the “90 Degree Rule” when you’re golfing. This rule dictates that you are permitted to drive out to your ball on the grass, provided you approach it at a 90° angle. Follow the golf cart path to a place that lines up with your ball, then make a right angle turn and drive straight towards it. This minimizes the amount of time your golf cart is on the grass while still allowing golfers to reach their ball.

Cart Path Only

Some days, the golf course management may post that the course requires you to only use the cart path. This means you cannot drive over grass, no matter how short a distance. You’ll have to drive as close to the ball as you can, then park and walk over to it. You should get in the habit of asking what the cart rules are that day when you arrive at the course so you’re aware.

Pay Attention To Signs

Watch for posted signs just as you do when driving your passenger car on the highway. There may be special notices regarding course rules that you should follow. Ask an attendant if you’re new to a course so they can advise you about any rules you should know. If you see a sign reading “No Carts Beyond This Point,” then you’ll have to turn back and find another way.

Don’t Joyride

While joyriding might be fun in a golf cart, it’s very poor conduct for a golf course. Not only is it disrespectful to other golfers and drivers, but you’re much more likely to injure someone or yourself if you’re driving recklessly. You could also land your cart in a water hazard or a ditch and be forced to have it towed out, which would be an expensive endeavor. If the golf cart is the property of the course, then you would be liable for any damages that occur. Use your cart only to travel from one hole to the next, to advance to the next shot or to get on and off the grass.

Use Common Sense

You should observe some basic practices when operating a golf cart. Ignoring these rules could get you in a fight with other golfers or even kicked off the course. Stay behind other golfers while driving your cart. No matter how far away they might be, a ball hit hard could go far enough to hit you or your passenger. The chances of this happening are slim, but not zero if you’re driving in the path of golfers as they play.

If you’re new to golfing, it’s vital to remember that golf is a sport of extreme concentration. Golfers focus very hard on what they’re doing in order to move precisely, so any little distraction can completely throw them off and cause them to swing poorly. This is frustrating and you’d want other golfers to show you the same courtesy, so it’s important to minimize noise by talking quietly and not playing music loudly as you drive around the golf course.

Seeking a golf cart so you don’t have to rent one? Come down to our dealership to see our selection of new and used golf carts for sale. Richmond Equipment serves the greater Houston area, as well as the cities of Rosenberg, Beaumont, Austin and San Antonio, Texas.