When it's time to hit the driving range, one of the most important things you can do is to be prepared. That doesn't just mean having all the right clubs in your bag or making sure to remember your golf shoes. It also means knowing the rules and regulations of the driving range you'll be using. While every range will have different rules, most of them share some in common.
Leave Balls at the Range
This is most likely the most universal and most important rule of the driving range. Because supplying you with a bucket of balls is how the driving range makes its money, they take it very seriously when someone absconds with a handful of range balls to use for their next round. Instead of trying to save a few bucks by pilfering range balls, head to the pro shop and pick up some used golf balls on the cheap. Many shops sell slightly used golf balls at a reasonable discount if you don't have the cash to afford new ones.
Stay on Designated Hitting Areas
Driving range operators are constantly moving around tee areas in order to help the grass grow, which is why they set up specific areas for you to use for practice. Whether you're teeing off natural grass or tee mats, hit your clubs only in the designated areas, even if you're not thrilled with your angle or line of sight. Don't try moving your practice mat, either, in order to get a better angle.
Age Restrictions
If you've got the kids but you're itching to hit a bucket of balls, be sure to call ahead and find out the age restrictions on the driving range you're heading to. Many ranges don't allow kids under a certain age, such as 12 or 10, in order to prevent distractions to other golfers.
No Outside Instruction
Many driving ranges are part of golf courses and employ professional golf instructors full-time to help you with your game, and thus don't allow outside instructors to come in and hold practices on their facilities. Check with your driving range before you show up for an official paid practice session to see if outside instructors are allowed.
Dress and Attire Rules
Some driving ranges are casual, but others maintain a more professional golfing atmosphere, meaning you may be required to wear a collared shirt or be prohibited from wearing any denim material. Non-spiked or soft-spiked golf shoes are also prohibited at many driving ranges, just as they are on most golf courses.
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