Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A tee time is a scheduled appointment to start a round from a specified point. It is not a scoring method or competition format. Courses use starting intervals and tee-time reservations to organise groups and manage play.
How it matters in match play
Players must be at the Committee's starting point, ready with a ball and club, at the specified starting time. Under Rule 5.3a, being no more than five minutes late normally incurs the general penalty: loss of the first hole in match play. The Rule's exceptions, including exceptional circumstances, and the competition terms must also be considered.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Tee Time |
| Category | general |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf Rule 5.3a |
| Related concepts | Start List, Tee Sheet, Starting Hole, Shotgun Start |
Worked example
Alex and Ben have a 9:10 am tee time for their match; if the Committee's starting point is clear and Alex is ready at 9:10:00 but Ben arrives at 9:12, Ben is within five minutes and normally loses the first hole under Rule 5.3a, subject to any applicable exception.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf Rule 5.3a
Sources: www.randa.org , www.fsga.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Does a tee time mean the time I should arrive at the golf course?
No. It is the time you must be ready to play at the Committee's starting point. Arrive early enough to park, check in, prepare equipment and reach the tee without delaying the group.
What happens if I am late for a tee time in match play?
Rule 5.3a generally gives the general penalty when a player arrives ready within five minutes after the starting time. In match play that penalty is loss of the first hole; arriving more than five minutes late normally means disqualification, subject to the Rule's exceptions and the competition's procedures.
Is a tee time itself a golf format?
No. A tee time schedules when and where play begins. The match may use Match Play, Stroke Play or another authorised format, while the Committee sets the starting time and starting point.
Can a course use different starting intervals?
Yes. Starting intervals are a course-management decision. The R&A pace-of-play guidance explains that intervals that are too narrow can overcrowd the course, while suitable gaps help groups flow through the round.
Is a 9:00 am tee time exact?
Under Rule 5.3a, a Committee-set starting time is treated as exact: 9:00 am means 9:00:00. The player must be ready to play at the starting time and starting point, not simply walking towards the tee.
Does the tee time determine which teeing area I use?
The tee time normally identifies the scheduled group and starting point, but the Committee or course may set a different starting hole or use a Shotgun Start. Check the Start List or Tee Sheet and the Terms of the Competition.