A tee time in golf is a scheduled reservation that grants a player or group the right to begin their round on the first tee at a specific moment in time. This reservation is necessary at nearly all golf facilities to manage the flow of players across the course. If your tee time is 8:07 a.m., your group is expected to strike its first shot at that exact minute, not simply arrive at the course.
Why Courses Require Tee Times
The primary function of the tee time system is to serve as a traffic management tool for the golf course. By staggering groups at regular intervals, typically between seven and fifteen minutes, the course controls the volume of players on the property at any given moment. This structured approach prevents bottlenecks and long, frustrating waits on the first tee, which would otherwise occur on busy days.
This scheduling also directly supports the goal of maintaining a consistent pace of play throughout the day. Course operators use this system to maximize their capacity and revenue while still delivering an enjoyable experience for the golfer.
Methods for Booking Your Tee Time
Securing a tee time involves reserving your spot, and there are three main methods for doing so. The most traditional approach is calling the course’s pro shop directly to speak with a staff member who can check availability and confirm your reservation. Many courses now offer dedicated online booking portals on their websites, which provide real-time availability and instant confirmation.
A third common method involves using third-party apps or aggregator websites, which often display available times for multiple courses in one place. These platforms sometimes offer discounted or last-minute deals, but booking directly with the course may sometimes offer better rates or more flexible policies. The booking window varies significantly by course, with some public facilities allowing reservations seven to fourteen days in advance, while popular courses may require booking months ahead.
When booking, you must specify the number of players in your group, as this affects the course’s scheduling. Be aware of the course’s cancellation policy, as many facilities require a 24- to 48-hour notice to avoid a “no-show” fee, which is typically charged to the credit card used to secure the reservation. If you need to adjust the number of players, contact the pro shop as soon as possible.
Day-of-Play Procedure and Etiquette
The procedure for the day of play begins with a recommended arrival window of 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled start time. This allows sufficient time to check in, change shoes, and complete a brief warm-up without feeling rushed. Upon arrival, you must report to the Pro Shop to pay any remaining fees and formally check in, confirming your presence to the staff.
After checking in, you should be at the first tee box at least ten minutes before your tee time to meet the “starter,” the course official responsible for managing the flow of groups. The starter ensures that each group begins precisely on time and provides any final instructions or course conditions. Being late for your tee time can result in losing your slot, especially at busy courses, or being forced to wait until a later opening becomes available.
Maintaining the pace of play is the most important etiquette rule tied to the tee time system. Golfers are expected to keep up with the group immediately ahead of them, not simply stay ahead of the group behind. Many courses encourage “Ready Golf,” which means players hit their shot when they are ready and safe to do so, rather than strictly adhering to the traditional rule of the player farthest from the hole hitting first. If your group falls significantly behind, a course ranger may ask you to speed up or even skip a hole to restore the proper flow of traffic.