MY GOLF BLUEPRINT
The 14-club limit and equipment changes
Rule 4.1 · Official source checked 6 November 2026
You may start a round with no more than 14 clubs. You can carry fewer, and there is no required mix of drivers, irons, wedges or putters.
On the course
- Count your clubs before the first tee.
- Check that the equipment conforms.
- Do not deliberately change a club's playing characteristics during the round.
- Ask for a ruling if you discover an extra or damaged club.
Worked situation
A player can carry two putters within the 14-club total. Sharing has specific partner provisions and is not a general permission to borrow another player's club for a stroke.
Important distinction
Damaged-club repair and replacement rules have conditions, including how damage occurred. Read the current rule rather than relying on an older summary.
Sources and further reading
Keep learning
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