In order to state that golf equipment intended to be used during the stipulated round conforms to the Rules of Golf or is permitted under the Rules of Golf, equipment designers and manufacturers must submit the equipment to the USGA Research and Test Center for evaluation and receive an official conformance determination permitting the designer or manufacturer to make such a statement.
The Rules of Golf and the Equipment Rules provide guidance and specifications regarding the equipment that may be used to play the game. The specifications and guidance can be found in Rule 4.1 for golf clubs, Rule 4.2 for golf balls, Rule 4.3 for other equipment (such as tees, gloves, and other devices), and the Equipment Rules.
The submission process is straightforward and, after only a few simple steps, equipment can be evaluated by the USGA for conformance. Our turnaround time ranges from 15-20 days or less, depending on the time of year. Expedited decisions may be requested and will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Such requests will be honored if resources are available. There is a premium charge for such requests.