Asking another player what club they used is a penalty under Rule 10.2a — two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play. But asking about distance, the rules, or the flagstick position is always allowed.
What counts as advice?
- Club choice ("I'd hit a 7-iron here")
- Method of making a stroke
- Strategy or play during a hole or round
| Action | Advice? | Penalty? |
|---|---|---|
| Asking what club someone hit | Yes | General penalty (10.2a) |
| Asking the distance to the green | No | Allowed |
| Asking where the flagstick is positioned | No | Allowed |
| Asking about the rules | No | Allowed |
Who you CAN ask
Your caddie (Rule 10.3) and your partner in team formats are exempt from the advice rule.
Quick answers
Is it a penalty to ask what club someone hit in golf? Yes — two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play (Rule 10.2a).
What counts as advice in golf? Any comment intended to influence club choice, method of stroke, or strategy.
What can you ask about without a penalty? Rules, distances, hazard locations, flagstick position, who is away.
Can you ask your caddie for advice? Yes.
What's the penalty for giving or asking advice? General penalty: two strokes in stroke play or loss of hole in match play.