Playing the Old Course
How the Ballot System Works
Securing a tee time at the historic Old Course at St Andrews is an incredibly sought-after experience. Because demand far exceeds the number of available times, St Andrews Links Trust operates two daily lottery systems to give visiting golfers a chance to play: the 48-Hour Ballot (for groups) and the Singles Daily Draw (for individual golfers).
The 48-Hour Ballot (Groups of 2–4)
The traditional Old Course Ballot is drawn 48 hours before the intended day of play. (We will ballot automatically for you)
How it Works: Entries are accepted for groups of two to four golfers. The ballot closes at 2:00 PM (local time) two days prior to the play date. Results are published around 5 PM that same day.
The Singles Daily Draw (Solo Golfers)
In March 2024, St Andrews replaced its historic overnight queue with a modernized, digital Singles Daily Draw. This allows solo golfers a chance to fill gaps in existing groups of two or three.
How it Works: Golfers must enter in person between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM the day before they wish to play. Entries are made via a tablet at either the Old Pavilion (next to the 1st tee) or the St Andrews Links Clubhouse.
The Process: A headshot photo is taken during registration to verify your identity, ensuring the system is fair and entries are not duplicated. The draw is randomized at 5:00 PM, and successful golfers are notified via SMS and email early that evening with their tee time for the following day.
Important Rules & Requirements
Handicap Limit: The Old Course strictly enforces a maximum handicap of 36 for both men and women.
Proof of Handicap: If you are successful in either ballot, you must present your physical or digital handicap certificate/card to the starter before teeing off. No proof, no play.
Your Schedule & Our Balloting Strategy
We have you scheduled on a St Andrews Links course already, and if you win the Old Course Ballot, you forego your scheduled round and pay the starter £355 or the current rate directly. We will ballot you in the 48-hour ballot before you arrive at St Andrews, and we will also assist you in balloting for the singles ballot daily. This gives you the best chance to win the ballot while you are in St Andrews!
Sunday Closures & Public Walks
On Sundays, the Old Course turns into a public park where the entire course can be walked hole by hole! Pictures can be taken on the Swilcan Bridge throughout the day. It is a great way to see and walk The Old Course without the stress or the price of a tee time.
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Please let us know if you are interested in the ballot and we will automatically ballot for you on the days you are in St Andrews.
We need your home course, handicap and full name to complete the 48 hour ballot for you during your golf trip
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Inquiries: info@tmigolf.com | 1.800.757.5289