Three minutes are allowed to search for a lost ball – but when exactly does the countdown start according to the golf rules?
Almost every golfer knows the scene: a ball disappears into thick rough, fellow players quickly begin searching – while the player involved casually walks along. The question arises: when does the clock start? The golf rules are clear: the search time only begins when the player or their caddie actively starts searching. According to Rule 18.2a, it doesn’t matter when other players or spectators begin looking – the three-minute count starts only when the player begins their own search.
Since 2019, the allowed search time has been limited to three minutes, shortened from the previous five to speed up play. If the ball is not found within this timeframe, it is considered lost, and the player must return to the previous spot with a penalty stroke.
Delay means penalty – How golf rules enforce timely play
Still, some golfers like to take their time. The rules address this too: if a player deliberately delays to let others do the legwork, they cannot claim a later start to their search time. The clock begins when the player could have promptly started searching. This ensures fair and smooth play.
Found does not mean identified
If the ball is spotted in time, the search ends—at least by the time limit. But what if it’s unclear if it’s the player’s own ball? The rules permit a reasonable amount of time to confirm identity. The ball can be lifted, marked, and lightly cleaned if its position is marked. The key is that the ball is found within three minutes; identification can take a little longer.
When two identical balls lie close by, confusion often arises. If the original ball cannot be positively identified, the player may designate which ball is provisional; the other is out of play.
Ball moved? No problem—but replace it correctly
Especially in thick rough or sand, the ball may move during the search unintentionally. The rules allow this without penalty, provided the ball is replaced to its original spot—whether under branches or partially buried. The rules leave no room for interpretation: those searching must act properly.