In most situations, you cannot simply change your golf ball in the middle of a hole just because you want to use a different ball. Under the Rules of Golf, you are normally required to play the same ball from the tee until you hole out. However, there are several important situations where changing to another ball is completely legal. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub/topics/golf-ball.html))
For example, you can normally use a different ball when taking relief under a rule or when playing again from the previous spot. You can also change balls between holes. Understanding when a substitution is allowed can help you avoid an unnecessary penalty.
Can You Change Your Golf Ball During a Hole?
Normally, no. Once you have started a hole, you are generally expected to continue playing the same ball until the hole is completed.
Rule 6.3 states that a player must hole out with the same ball that was played from the teeing area, except when the ball is lost or out of bounds or when the Rules allow the player to substitute another ball. ([randa.org](https://www.randa.org/en/rog/the-rules-of-golf/rule-6))
This means you cannot simply decide halfway through a hole that you would rather use a different brand, model, color, or type of golf ball.
When Is Changing Golf Balls Legal?
There are several situations where the Rules allow you to change balls during a hole.
- When taking relief under a rule.
- When playing again from the spot of a previous stroke.
- When the original ball is lost or out of bounds.
- When the original ball has become cut or cracked during the hole.
- When another specific rule allows a substitution.
You can also change to another ball between holes. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/RulesFAQ/rules_answer.asp?FAQidx=263&Rule=0&Topic=12))
Can You Change Balls When Taking Relief?
Yes. This is one of the most common situations where changing golf balls is legal.
When you take relief under a rule, you can generally use either your original ball or another ball. This applies to both free relief and penalty relief when the relevant relief procedure allows you to drop or place a ball. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/RulesFAQ/rules_answer.asp?FAQidx=256&Rule=0&Topic=12))
For example, if your ball goes into a red penalty area and you decide to take lateral relief, you can normally use a different conforming ball when you drop the ball.
Can You Change Balls After Hitting Into a Red Penalty Area?
Yes, if you decide to take penalty relief.
For example, suppose your tee shot enters a red penalty area. You decide not to play the original ball and instead take lateral relief with a one stroke penalty. You can use another conforming ball for the drop.
Once the new ball is properly put into play under the relief procedure, the new ball becomes your ball in play.
You should not then switch back to the original ball unless another rule allows you to do so.
Can You Change Balls After Hitting Out of Bounds?
Yes. When your ball is out of bounds, you must normally take stroke and distance relief by playing again from the previous spot.
When playing again from where your previous stroke was made, you can use either the original ball or another ball. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/custom-search-pages/rules/2019-golf-rules-and-interpretations/fr-rule-6.html))
For example, if your tee shot goes out of bounds, you can return to the tee and play a different conforming ball as your next ball in play.
Can You Change Balls After Losing Your Ball?
Yes. If your original ball is lost and you are proceeding under stroke and distance, you use another ball to continue play.
Once you have properly put the replacement ball into play under the applicable rule, that replacement ball becomes the ball in play.
If the original ball is later found after you have already put the replacement ball into play under stroke and distance, you cannot simply switch back to the original ball. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/custom-search-pages/rules/2019-golf-rules-and-interpretations/fr-rule-6.html))
Can You Change Balls Because Your Ball Is Damaged?
Yes, but there is an important distinction.
If your ball becomes cut or cracked during the hole, you can generally substitute another ball. The damage must have occurred during play of the hole rather than simply being a cosmetic mark that you do not like.
You are not generally allowed to replace a ball merely because it has become out of shape or because you would prefer a ball in better condition. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules/rules-2019/rules-of-golf/rules-and-interpretations.html))
Can You Change Balls Because It Is Dirty?
No. A dirty golf ball is not normally a reason to substitute another ball.
If you are allowed to lift your ball under a rule, you can often clean it and then replace the same ball. You cannot normally use the opportunity simply to replace it with a different ball.
This distinction is important because cleaning a ball and substituting a ball are two different actions.
Can You Change Balls on the Putting Green?
Usually, no. If you mark and lift your ball on the putting green, you normally have to replace that same ball.
The USGA specifically explains that when a ball is marked and lifted on the putting green, the same ball must be replaced to finish the hole, unless another rule allows a substitution. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub/topics/golf-ball.html))
For example, if you mark your ball because it is interfering with another players putt, you cannot simply replace it with a different ball when it is your turn.
What If Your Ball Falls Into a Bunker?
If your ball is in a bunker and you are playing it as it lies, you generally continue with the same ball.
If you take an allowed relief procedure that involves dropping or placing a ball, the applicable relief rule may allow you to substitute another ball.
The important question is whether you are replacing the original ball on its original spot or proceeding under a relief rule.
Replacing vs Substituting a Golf Ball
These terms can sound similar, but they have different meanings under the Rules of Golf.
Replacing means putting the original ball back on the required spot after it has been lifted or moved. When replacing a ball on a spot, you generally must use the original ball.
Substituting means putting a different ball into play. This is allowed only when a rule permits you to do so.
This difference is particularly important on the putting green and whenever your ball has been lifted for a specific reason. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/RulesFAQ/rules_answer.asp?FAQidx=256&Rule=0&Topic=12))
Can You Change From a Pro V1 to a Different Ball Mid-Hole?
Not simply because you want to.
If you start a hole with one conforming ball, you normally have to finish the hole with that ball unless a rule allows you to substitute another ball.
For example, changing from one ball model to another after hitting your approach shot is not normally allowed just because you want a different ball for putting.
Can You Use a Different Ball for Putting?
Not normally.
You cannot start a hole with one ball and then decide to use a different ball once you reach the green simply because you prefer its putting characteristics.
If you mark and lift your ball on the green, you generally need to replace that same ball.
What Is the One Ball Rule?
The One Ball Local Rule is an additional competition condition that can restrict the type and brand of ball you are allowed to use during a round.
When this local rule is in effect, players may be required to use balls from the same brand and model throughout the round, subject to the terms of the local rule.
Without the One Ball Local Rule, the Rules generally allow a player to substitute any conforming ball when substitution is otherwise permitted. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub/topics/golf-ball.html))
Can You Change Golf Balls Between Holes?
Yes. You can change balls between holes.
For example, you could play one ball on the first hole and start the second hole with a completely different conforming ball.
This is one of the simplest times to change balls because the requirement to continue with the same ball applies to the play of an individual hole.
Can You Change Balls During a Round?
Yes, but the timing matters.
You can change balls between holes without needing a special reason. During a hole, however, you need a rule that permits the substitution.
So it is perfectly legal to use different balls on different holes, provided they meet the applicable equipment requirements and any competition conditions.
What Happens If You Change Balls Illegally?
If you substitute another ball when the Rules do not allow it and then make a stroke at that ball, you can receive the general penalty.
In stroke play, the general penalty is two strokes. You then continue the hole with the incorrectly substituted ball. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/custom-search-pages/rules/2019-golf-rules-and-interpretations/fr-rule-6.html))
This is different from accidentally playing another players ball, which is treated as playing a wrong ball and has its own procedure for correcting the mistake.
Example of an Illegal Ball Change
Imagine you hit your drive into the fairway with a premium golf ball. You hit your second shot and decide that you would rather use a softer ball for your short putt.
You mark your original ball, pick it up, and replace it with a different ball before putting.
That substitution is not allowed simply because you prefer the other ball. When you make a stroke at the substituted ball, you can receive the general penalty.
Example of a Legal Ball Change
Now imagine your tee shot enters a red penalty area.
You decide to take lateral relief and drop another conforming ball within the required relief area.
This substitution is allowed because you are proceeding under a relief rule. The new ball becomes the ball in play.
Can You Change Balls After Taking an Unplayable Ball Penalty?
Yes. If you declare your ball unplayable and take one of the relief options that involves dropping or playing again from a previous spot, you can generally use another ball.
The substitution is allowed because you are proceeding under a relief rule.
This can be useful if your original ball is damaged, dirty, or simply difficult to identify after the situation that led to the relief.
Can You Change Balls After Free Relief?
Yes. When taking relief under a rule, including free relief, you can generally use either your original ball or another ball.
For example, if your ball lies in temporary water and you are entitled to free relief, you can generally use another conforming ball when taking the relief.
The key is that you are proceeding under a rule that allows you to drop or place a ball rather than simply replacing your ball on its original spot.
Can You Change Balls if the Ball Is Interfering With Another Player?
Not simply because the ball is interfering.
If you are required or allowed to lift your ball because it is helping or interfering with another players play, the normal procedure is to mark and lift the ball and then replace it on the same spot.
In that situation, you generally need to use the original ball rather than substituting another one.
Can You Borrow a Golf Ball From Another Player?
Yes, if the Rules allow you to substitute a ball.
The USGA notes that if you run out of golf balls, you can borrow a ball from another player, including certain practice or X-Out balls, provided the ball is conforming and the applicable competition conditions allow its use. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub/topics/golf-ball.html))
However, if you are not in a situation where substitution is allowed, borrowing another ball does not give you permission to switch balls.
Can You Use a Different Brand Mid-Hole?
Only when a rule allows you to substitute another ball.
If you are taking relief and substitution is allowed, the replacement can generally be a different brand or model unless a One Ball Local Rule or another competition condition restricts your choice.
During normal play, however, you cannot simply switch brands whenever you want.
Can You Change Ball Color Mid-Hole?
The same rule applies to color.
You cannot normally start a hole with a white ball and then switch to a yellow ball just because you prefer the visibility of the second ball.
If a rule allows you to substitute a ball, however, the replacement ball can generally be a different color if it is otherwise conforming and permitted by the applicable competition conditions.
What If You Accidentally Put a Different Ball in Play?
If you have substituted another ball when the Rules did not allow it, the consequences depend on what you do next.
If you notice the mistake before making a stroke, you may be able to correct it under the applicable ball-handling procedure.
If you make a stroke at the incorrectly substituted ball, the general penalty applies. In stroke play, you then continue with that substituted ball. ([usga.org](https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/custom-search-pages/rules/2019-golf-rules-and-interpretations/fr-rule-6.html))
Does the Same Rule Apply in Match Play?
The basic requirement to play the same ball during a hole also applies in match play.
The penalty for making a stroke at an incorrectly substituted ball can differ in its practical effect depending on the format, so match play competitors should be particularly careful about ball identification and substitution.
If you are unsure whether a substitution is allowed during a match, it is better to check the applicable rule before making the stroke.
What If Your Ball Is Cut by a Cart Path?
If your ball becomes cut or cracked during play, the Rules allow you to substitute another ball under the applicable procedure.
The important point is that the damage must have occurred during the hole. A ball that simply has a scratch or cosmetic mark does not automatically qualify for substitution.
What If You Hit a Tree and Damage the Ball?
If the ball becomes cut or cracked as a result of the stroke or another event during the hole, you may be able to replace it.
If you believe the ball is damaged, the rules provide a procedure for checking the ball before replacing it. You should follow that procedure rather than simply picking up the ball and switching to another one.
Simple Rule to Remember
A useful way to remember the rule is this:
Same hole, same ball unless a rule allows a substitution.
If you are taking relief, playing again from a previous spot, or dealing with a ball that has become lost, out of bounds, or properly eligible for substitution, another ball may be allowed.
If you are simply unhappy with the ball you are using, you normally have to wait until the next hole.
Golf Ball Change Rules at a Glance
| Situation | Can You Use Another Ball? |
|---|---|
| Starting a new hole | Yes |
| Taking penalty relief | Generally yes |
| Taking free relief | Generally yes |
| Playing again from the previous spot | Yes |
| Original ball is lost | Yes |
| Original ball is out of bounds | Yes |
| Ball becomes cut or cracked during play | Yes, under the applicable procedure |
| Marking and lifting ball on putting green | Normally no, replace the original ball |
| Ball is dirty | No, clean the original ball when permitted |
| You simply prefer another ball | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you change golf balls in the middle of a hole?
Normally no. You must generally continue with the same ball until the hole is completed unless a rule allows you to substitute another ball.
Can I change my ball after hitting into a red penalty area?
Yes. If you take relief under the penalty area rule, you can generally use another conforming ball.
Can I change my ball after hitting out of bounds?
Yes. When playing again from the previous spot under stroke and distance, you can use another conforming ball.
Can I change my ball on the green?
Normally no. If you mark and lift your ball on the putting green, you generally need to replace that same ball unless another rule specifically allows substitution.
Can I change golf balls between holes?
Yes. You can change to another conforming ball when starting the next hole, subject to any applicable competition conditions.
Can I change golf balls because mine is dirty?
No. A dirty ball is not normally a reason to substitute another ball. When the rules allow you to lift the ball, you can often clean it and continue with the same ball.
Can I use a different brand when taking relief?
Generally yes, unless a competition condition such as the One Ball Local Rule restricts which balls you may use.
What happens if I illegally change my golf ball?
If you make a stroke at an incorrectly substituted ball, you can receive the general penalty. In stroke play, you then continue the hole with the incorrectly substituted ball.
Final Thoughts
You cannot normally change your golf ball halfway through a hole just because you want to use a different ball. The basic rule is that you should play the same ball from the tee until you hole out.
There are important exceptions. You can generally substitute another ball when taking relief, when playing again from the previous spot, when your original ball is lost or out of bounds, and in certain situations involving a damaged ball. ([randa.org](https://www.randa.org/en/rog/the-rules-of-golf/rule-6))
The easiest way to remember the rule is to ask yourself why you are changing the ball. If you are changing it because a rule gives you the option to substitute, it is likely legal. If you are changing it simply because you prefer another ball, you normally need to wait until the next hole.
When playing casually, this distinction may not matter much to your group. In a competition, however, making an unauthorized substitution can result in a penalty, so knowing when a ball change is actually permitted is an important part of understanding the Rules of Golf.