The new Rule will apply to all golfers of all abilities and in all forms of play. Most importantly, it is recognised that this Rule will affect the conformance status of many drivers in use and, whilst many golfers have already replaced or made plans to replace such clubs with conforming models, some golfers, it would seem, are still unaware of the new Rule and its implications.

Below is list of Frequently Asked Questions which has been prepared by the R&A:

Q1 Will the new Rule on drivers be applicable to amateur, Club level golfers?

A1 Yes. The new Rule will apply to all golfers, of all abilities, in all forms of play. This includes Club level golfers playing in their Club competitions and medals.


Q2 Can individual Golf Clubs decide to allow the use of non-conforming drivers via a Local Rule or Condition of Competition?

A2 No. A Committee has no power to waive a Rule of Golf (see Rule 33-1). Local Rules and Conditions of Competitions can only be introduced under the terms of Appendix I.


Q3 Is it up to the Committee to ensure that I am using a driver which conforms to the new Rules?

A3 No. It is your responsibility to ensure that your equipment conforms to the Rules of Golf.


Q4 Where can I find out if my driver will conform after 1 January 2008? A4 The R&A website lists conforming and non conforming clubs. There is link to the R&A site from the GUI site which contains more information and more Q&As on the subject. Click here http://www.gui.ie/