9 December 2022
Delay of Implementation of Rule 10.2b(3) of the
Rules of Golf for Certain Uses of Self-Standing Putters
On October 3, 2022, a communication was shared with manufacturers regarding changes to
Rule 10.2b(3) of the Rules of Golf. This communication focused on how changes to Rule
10.2b(3) would apply to the use of self-standing putters.
Rule 10.2b(3) will go into effect on January 1, 2023, but, after further consideration by the
USGA and The R&A, the implementation of Rule 10.2b(3) as it applies to certain uses of self-
standing putters will be delayed for two years.
The following Clarification will apply from January 1, 2023 until the end of 2024:
10.2b(3)/2 – Delay of Implementation for Certain Uses of Self-Standing Putters
A two-year delay of implementation in relation to certain uses of self-standing putters under
Rule 10.2b(3) is in effect as follows:
• Until January 1, 2025, a player may use a self-standing putter by setting it down right
behind or right next to the spot on which the ball came to rest to help aim or to take a
stance or position their feet.
• From January 1, 2025, Rule 10.2b(3) will apply to self-standing putters and the acts
described in the previous paragraph will no longer be allowed. But a player will still be
allowed to use a self-standing putter that conforms to the Rules to make a stroke or take
other actions allowed by the Rules.
The delay of implementation does not change the language of Rule 10.2b(3), which will be
effective on January 1, 2023.
As was previously advised in the October 3, 2022 communication, the changes to Rule 10.2b(3)
apply only to the Rules of Golf, not the Equipment Rules. There is no change to the
conformance status of any self-standing putters previously submitted to the USGA or The R&A
for conformance evaluation