The short answer

The ruling in plain English

In match play, playing a wrong ball normally means loss of hole. In stroke play, add two penalty strokes, disregard strokes made at the wrong ball, and correct the mistake by continuing with your original ball or taking valid relief before starting the next hole—or before returning your scorecard on the final hole.

How the Rule works

Check these facts first

Playing a wrong ball brings loss of hole in match play. In stroke play, the penalty is two strokes and the player must continue with the original ball or take valid relief. Strokes made at the wrong ball do not count, and failure to correct in time results in disqualification.

What to do, in order

Your on-course procedure

  1. 1

    Stop playing the wrong ball as soon as the mistake is discovered.

  2. 2

    In match play, apply loss of hole.

  3. 3

    In stroke play, add two penalty strokes and do not count strokes made at the wrong ball.

  4. 4

    Continue with the original ball as it lies or take valid relief, correcting before the next hole or before returning the scorecard on the final hole.

Penalty

Count it correctly

Loss of hole in match play; two penalty strokes in stroke play, with disqualification if the mistake is not corrected in time.

The exact outcome depends on the stated facts and format of play. Apply any exception below before recording the penalty.

Exceptions and common mistakes

Know when the answer changes

  • There is no penalty for a stroke at a wrong ball moving in water in a penalty area or temporary water; the stroke does not count and the mistake must be corrected.
  • If another player played your ball as a wrong ball, replace your original ball or another ball on its original spot.

Avoid these wrong turns

  • Counting strokes made at the wrong ball in stroke play.
  • Finishing the hole with the wrong ball instead of correcting before the deadline.
Authoritative source

Check the official wording

This independent guide is a plain-English aid. The current Rules, Interpretations and any course Local Rules control the ruling.

R&A Rule 6.3c
Try a quick quiz

Would you make the right call?

Answer one situation from this guide, then try the full rules challenge for bragging rights.

Question 1 of 1Starter
Played the Wrong Golf Ball? Penalty and How to Correct It

What is the normal penalty for playing a wrong ball in stroke play?

Choose one answer