How fast do I have to play?

Recommendation: when it's your turn, make your stroke in no more than 40 seconds after you are (or should be) able to play without interference, and usually faster. Prepare in advance and be ready when it's your turn. In stroke play, "ready golf" is allowed when it's safe (Rule 5.6b).

Unreasonable delay is penalized (Rule 5.6a):

1. First breach: one penalty stroke
2. Second breach: general penalty (two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play)
3. Third breach: disqualification

A short delay is allowed for good reasons, such as seeking help from a referee or becoming ill or injured.

The Committee should also adopt a Pace of Play Policy as a Local Rule. It may set maximum times for a round, a hole, a series of holes or a stroke, with penalties for not keeping up (Rule 5.6b(3)).