Can my child bowl with bumpers, and do bumper games count?
Rule- USA
- USBC
- Youth bowling
- Youth league
- Under 12
- USBC Playing Rules
- 2026-27 rules
- Parents
Yes. USBC can certify leagues that use bumpers or other modified formats. All other USBC rules and equipment specifications still apply as far as practical.
What changes with bumpers:
- Averages: games bowled with bumpers or another modified format don't count toward an average used to enter standard (non-bumper) competition.
- Awards: only scores bowled under standard tenpin scoring and equipment specifications qualify for USBC awards (such as a 300 game). Bumper scores don't.
USBC doesn't set an age for coming off bumpers. Whether a bumper division is offered, and for which ages, is set by each league.
Updated 21 Oct 2026