Rules · Tip
Moving Your Ball Marker Out of the Way
Part of our rules programs. Build a program with it
Sometimes your marker sits on someone else's line. Rule 15.3c lets you move it, or ask another player to move theirs, for the same reasons you'd lift a ball. Measure the move from where it sat, usually a clubhead-length or two sideways. Remember the direction and distance. When it's time, measure back from the new spot the same way. Put the marker back on its first spot before you replace your ball.
Step by step
- Ask if your marker is in someone's way.
- Shift it a clubhead or two sideways.
- Remember direction and distance.
- Move it back the same way.
- Then replace your ball.
Why it works
A marker on another player's line can affect their putt, so the rules let you shift it. Measuring from a fixed reference, such as a clubhead-length to one side, lets you put the marker back on its exact original spot. Returning the marker to the first spot before you replace the ball means your ball is played from the correct place.
Common mistakes
- Moving the marker without noting which way and how far you moved it.Pick a clear reference, such as the toe of your putter pointing at a mark in the distance, and say the direction and number of clubhead-lengths to yourself.
- Replacing the ball at the new marker spot instead of the original spot.Measure back the same way first, check the marker is on its first spot, then put the ball down.
- Moving the marker by a different amount or angle on the way back.Use the same part of the same club and the same reference line, and reverse the move exactly.
How you'll know it's working
- Your marker returns to the exact spot it started on, and your ball sits where it was before you lifted it.
- You can state the direction and distance of the move without looking.
- The other player's line is clear and they do not need to ask you again.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Practice on a flat practice green with a single line, moving the marker one putter-head width to the side and back.
Harder: Practice with two markers in different positions on a sloped green, and move and restore both while keeping to your normal pace of play.
Common questions
Can I move my ball marker if it is in another player's line?
Yes. Rule 15.3c lets you move it, and you can ask another player to move theirs, for the same reasons you would lift a ball. Measure the move from the original spot so you can restore it.
How far should I move my ball marker?
Usually a clubhead-length or two to one side is enough to clear the line. Remember the direction and distance so you can reverse it exactly.
