The 90-Degree Cart Rule
Also known as: 90-degree cart rule, ninety degree rule, cart rule golf, golf cart etiquette, cart path only, where to drive a golf cart
The 90-degree cart rule means you keep the cart on the path until you are level with your ball. Then you turn at a right angle, drive straight across the fairway to it, and return the same way. It spreads cart traffic and protects the turf.
Courses set their own cart policies, and the 90-degree rule is one of the most common. It keeps carts from driving up and down the fairway. Tire tracks then spread across the grass instead of wearing one strip.
Other common policies are "cart path only" and "paths on par 3s". Many courses use these after rain. Keep carts well away from greens, tees and bunkers on every hole. Watch for signs and ropes that tell you where to turn back to the path.
Check the scorecard or ask at the starter's desk. The policy can change day to day with the weather.
Tips by skill level
Before your round, ask the starter what the cart policy is today.
On cart-path-only days, take two or three clubs to your ball. It saves trips back to the cart.
Example
The sign at the first tee says "90 degrees today." The golfers stay on the path until level with their drives. They turn straight across, hit, and return to the path.
Why it matters
Following the cart policy protects the course and avoids being asked to leave. It also keeps the fairways good for everyone.
Common mistakes
- Driving down the fairway to every ball
- Taking carts close to greens or tees
- Ignoring a cart-path-only sign after rain
Frequently asked questions
What does cart path only mean?
You must keep the cart on the paved path at all times. Walk from the path to your ball and back.
Can I drive the golf cart on the fairway?
Only if the course allows it. On a 90-degree day, cross the fairway at a right angle to your ball, then go back to the path.
Related terms
- Golf EtiquetteGolf etiquette comes down to safety, pace and care of the course. Wait until the group ahead is out of range, shout 'fore' if your ball heads toward anyone, and keep up with the group in front. Repair ball marks, replace or fill divots and rake bunkers after you play from them.
- Letting a Group Play ThroughLet a group play through when they are faster and waiting on you, especially if there is open space ahead of you. Also wave them on if you are searching for a ball. The Rules of Golf encourage players to allow faster groups to play through.
- Ready Golf (Pace of Play)"Ready golf" means whoever is ready hits next, instead of strictly waiting for the golfer farthest from the hole. It is widely encouraged in casual and recreational rounds to keep pace of play reasonable.
- Replacing and Filling DivotsOn the fairway, put your divot back in its hole and press it down with your foot if the turf comes out in one piece. If it breaks apart, or the course provides divot mix, fill the hole level with the mix and smooth it. On tees, many courses ask you to fill divots with mix rather than replace them.
Related guides & benchmarks
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