Slope lasers
Use the external switch or mode button to turn slope off before the round. The Bushnell Tour V7 Shift, Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra and Shot Scope PRO L5 all have competition-friendly switches.
Rules of Golf
Rangefinders, GPS Watches and the Rules of Golf: What You Can Use in Competitions
Distance devices are allowed in most golf, including club competitions, with one big exception: elevation. Here is what the rule says and how to set up your device.
Quick answer
Distance and direction are allowed; elevation is not. Under Rule 4.3a(1) you may get distance and direction information from a rangefinder, GPS watch or app. You must not measure elevation changes (slope or PlaysLike distances) or get a recommended line or club. A competition can ban distance devices completely with a Local Rule, so check the terms of the competition.
What is allowed and what is not
| Device or feature | In a round under the Rules of Golf |
|---|---|
| Laser distance to the flag or a target | Allowed |
| GPS distances to the front, middle and back of the green and hazards | Allowed |
| Slope-adjusted distance on a laser | Not allowed to use. Switch slope off; most slope lasers show an external indicator so partners can see |
| PlaysLike or elevation-adjusted distance on a watch or handheld | Not allowed to use. Turn on tournament mode, which switches it off |
| Club recommendations or a suggested line (virtual caddie) | Not allowed to use |
| Wind speed and direction readings from a device | Not allowed to use |
| Shot tracking and scoring that you look at after the round | Allowed |
Weather forecasts, including forecast wind, are fine to look at; measuring wind on the course with a device is not. When in doubt, ask the competition committee before the round.
When devices are banned
The committee running a competition can adopt Model Local Rule G-5, which prohibits distance-measuring devices. Some elite amateur and professional events do this. Check the competition terms or the notice board.
The penalty
Breaching Rule 4.3 brings the general penalty (two strokes in stroke play, loss of the hole in match play) for the first breach, and disqualification for a second breach after an intervening event.
Setting up your device for competitions
GPS watches and handhelds
Turn on tournament mode, which hides PlaysLike or slope distances. Check any virtual-caddie feature is off.
Phone apps
Distance apps are fine; turn off club recommendations and elevation features.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a rangefinder with slope in a competition?
Yes, if slope is switched off and you only use the distance. Using the slope reading breaches Rule 4.3.
Are GPS watches allowed in club competitions?
Yes, for distance and direction, unless the competition has a Local Rule banning distance devices. Turn on tournament mode to switch off elevation-adjusted distances.
What is the penalty for using slope in a competition?
The general penalty for the first breach (two strokes in stroke play or loss of the hole in match play), and disqualification for a second breach.
Sources
R&A: Rules of Golf, Rule 4 · Golf.com: rangefinder rules and slope. Checked 1 October 2026; rules, prices and software change, so confirm before you buy or build.