The R&A and USGA are the governing bodies for the Rules of Amateur Status and reserve the right to change the Rules at any time and to make and change interpretations of the Rules at any time.

The national golf union or association is the national governing body responsible for administering and applying the Rules of Amateur Status within its area of authority, including issues that arise in another area but involve a person or people who come under its authority.

If there is uncertainty or doubt about the application of the Rules, including whether a person is an amateur or non-amateur, the national governing body has the authority to make a final decision but it may also refer the matter to the USGA prior to making a decision.

The national governing body’s decision about the application of the Rules is final, subject to any appeal process established by that body.

- National Governing Body When Player Has Multiple Residencies

National Governing Body When Player Has Multiple Residencies

The Rules of Amateur Status are administered by an amateur golfer’s national governing body, which is the national governing body for golf in the country where the player resides and plays the majority of their golf, regardless of nationality.

Note: In relation to the administration of the Rules of Amateur Status in Great Britain and Ireland, The R&A is the national governing body.

When a player has dual or multiple residencies, the respective national governing bodies should coordinate to determine which body should have responsibility for the person concerned. If a decision cannot be reached, the national governing bodies should consult the USGA before making a decision.