The maximum number of clubs a golfer is allowed to carry during a round is 14. Rule 4.1b of the modern Rules of Golf sets this limit for a player’s equipment during a round, whether the clubs are carried in a bag or transported by a caddie.
The limit was introduced to prevent players from bringing a huge selection of clubs and repeatedly choosing the perfect tool for every distance and lie. Golfers must decide their combination before starting, balancing drivers, fairway woods, irons, wedges and a putter. A typical set contains fewer than 14 specialised clubs, but many competitive players use the full allowance.
A player who starts with fewer than 14 clubs may add clubs during the round, provided play is not unduly delayed. However, carrying more than 14 brings a penalty: in stroke play, the maximum is four penalty strokes, while in match play the penalty is loss of holes, capped at two. The number 14 is a limit on clubs, not on balls, tees or other permitted equipment.