Driving Range Etiquette
Also known as: range etiquette, driving range etiquette, driving range rules, range etiquette for beginners, first time at the driving range, how to behave at the driving range
At the range, hit only from your own bay or between the markers, and never walk past the hitting line to get a ball. Leave space between you and the next golfer. Keep noise down, and replace or neatly pattern your divots on grass.
Safety is the main rule. Stay behind the line where others hit. Never go onto the range to pick up a ball, even a close one. Leave enough room so no one can be hit by a backswing.
Respect other golfers. Many are working on something, so don't offer swing tips unless asked. Keep phone calls and music quiet. Use only the balls you paid for and return the basket.
On a grass range, take divots in a neat line, one just behind the last. It leaves less damage than scattered divots. Fill or replace divots if the range asks you to. Clear your tees and rubbish when you leave.
Tips by skill level
Pick a bay with space on both sides. Check behind you before every practice swing.
On grass, plan your divot pattern before you start. A tidy line saves turf and keeps a good lie for every ball.
Example
On his first range visit, a beginner sees a ball roll just past the mat. He leaves it, takes another from his basket and keeps hitting.
Why it matters
Range etiquette keeps everyone safe and makes practice pleasant. It also prepares you for good habits on the course.
Common mistakes
- Stepping past the hitting line to collect a ball
- Setting up too close to the next golfer
- Giving unwanted swing tips to strangers
Frequently asked questions
Can I go and get a ball at the driving range?
No. Never walk past the hitting line, even for a close ball. Take another ball from your basket.
How should I take divots at a grass range?
Take them in a neat line, each just behind the last. It leaves less damage than scattering divots.
Related terms
- How to Practice at the Driving RangeGive every range ball a purpose: pick a target, go through your pre-shot routine and watch where it finishes. Warm up with short clubs and easy swings, then work on one change at a time with a clear goal. Finish by changing club and target on almost every shot, the way you would on the course, so the practice carries over to real rounds.
- 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.
- 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.
- Where to Stand When Others HitStand to the side of the player, roughly facing them, well out of reach of their club. Never stand directly behind them on their line or ahead of the ball. Stay still and quiet from the moment they set up until the ball lands.
Related guides & benchmarks
Put this into practice
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