How do we handle scorecard problems in stroke play?

Question

Accepted Answer

Marker refuses to certify a hole score: consider the evidence and decide the score. If the marker still refuses, the Committee may certify it or accept certification from someone else who saw the play. A marker (who is a player) who knowingly certifies a wrong score should be disqualified under Rule 1.2a (Rule 3.3b(1)). Player's duties: certify hole scores, make sure the marker certifies, and promptly return the card. Breach is disqualification, unless it was caused by the marker's failure beyond the player's control (Rule 3.3b(2)). Define clearly when a card counts as "returned." Wrong hole score: higher score stands; lower or missing score is disqualification. Exception: a lower score only because of a penalty the player didn't know about isn't disqualification; add the penalty strokes if found before the close. This exception doesn't apply if the excluded penalty is disqualification, or if the player was told a penalty might apply and didn't raise it before returning the card (Rule 3.3b(3)). Totals and handicaps: the Committee adds up scores and applies handicaps; there's no penalty for player mistakes in these (Rule 3.3b(4)), unless a Local Rule makes the player responsible for the handicap. Failure to hole out: disqualification unless corrected before teeing off on the next hole or, on the last hole, before returning the card (Rule 3.3c).