1. All members in good standing of the PDGA are eligible to compete in any division for which they qualify based upon class (Professional or Amateur), age, gender, and player rating.
   1. Exceptions must be approved in advance by the PDGA Director of Event Support.
   2. Please see Section 2: Division Qualifications for more specific information on division eligibility.
2. Membership Requirements:
   
   1. Current PDGA Membership is required to compete in any Major, Elite Series, A-Tier, or B-Tier event. See 6.03.A.1 for exceptions.
   2. In all other PDGA-sanctioned events, players who are not current members may compete by paying a temporary membership fee (not required for Leagues, see 1.14.C.1). See 6.03.A.2 for exceptions.
   3. In PDGA-sanctioned events which permit non-members or non-current members to compete by paying a temporary membership fee, such a fee will not apply to players competing in Junior divisions or where the requirement has been waived by the PDGA Director of Event Support (e.g., Women's Global Event or Competition Endowment Program events).

1. Pre-registration is required for A-Tier events, and is recommended for all other Tiers. For PDGA Majors and Elite Series events, see 4.05.A.
2. A player is not officially entered in the event until their entry fee has been received and confirmed by the event.
3. All openings in the field of play will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis unless divisional or Pro/Am class caps have been publicized up front with registration, in which case each division or class will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. See exceptions to first-come, first-served below.
   

   1. Exceptions

      Some exceptions to first-come, first-served are appropriate to reward local clubs and volunteers for their grassroots work and service, to give the Tournament Director (TD) a useful tool to raise money for a tournament that benefits all of the event’s players, and to allow TDs to prioritize growing specific demographics of the sport in their area as they find appropriate.

      1. None of these exceptions apply to PDGA Majors or PDGA Elite Series events, as those events already have established registration criteria through their event agreements with the PDGA. A-Tiers that are held concurrently with an Elite Series event may utilize these exceptions.
      2. In all cases, any use of Exceptions must be completely transparent and publicly posted at least 48 hours prior to the opening of registration in order to provide the opportunity for any player to meet the requirements to be included within the specific Exception(s).
      3. The below-listed permitted exceptions (2, 3, & 4) classed as Unlimited, Limited, and PDGA Club, are the ONLY exceptions allowed for PDGA-sanctioned events beyond a complete 100% first-come, first-served registration.

   2. Unlimited Permitted Exceptions

      These Unlimited Permitted Exceptions are not limited by percentage of event spots, but the specific early registration tiers for the Unlimited Permitted Exception must be first-come, first-served to any player who meets the specific requirements of that registration tier. TDs may offer tiered registration based on:

      1. PDGA Player Ratings to give higher-rated players priority (Examples: Elite Series events, USADGC).
      2. qualification through PDGA-sanctioned qualifier events that were publicly available to all players. (Example: PDGA Worlds, USDGC, USADGC, or a Points Series Finale).
      3. specific divisions that are otherwise underserved. These are limited to female-only divisions, junior divisions, or senior (age 50 and older) age-based divisions.
      4. current PDGA membership.

   3. Limited Permitted Exceptions

      Usage Requirements:

      1. TDs may use one or more of the three below-listed Limited Permitted Exceptions, but at no time may they allocate more than one-third (33%) of an event’s player spots in total to any combination of the Limited Permitted Exceptions used. Two-thirds (67%) of the event spots must remain for first-come, first-served registrations.
      2. If the event has assigned Pro/Am class caps for registration, no more than one-third (33%) of the Pro spots and one-third (33%) of the Amateur spots may be allocated in total to any combination of the Limited Permitted Exceptions used. Two-thirds (67%) of the event spots must remain for first-come, first-served registrations for both Pro and Amateur.
      3. If the event has divisional registration caps, no more than one-half (50%) of the spots in any division may be allocated to any combination of the Limited Permitted Exceptions used. One-half (50%) of the event spots must remain for first-come, first-served registrations within any offered division.
      4. The Limited Permitted Exceptions are as follows:
         

         1. PDGA Club Membership Exception

            TDs may offer tiered registration to the registered members of local disc golf clubs who are hosting, running, or otherwise facilitating the event’s success and who are registered as PDGA Clubs. Club membership must not be exclusive and must be publicly posted so anyone can meet the requirements to be part of the PDGA Club Membership Exception if they so choose.

         2. Event Sponsorship Exception

            TDs may offer tiered registration to players who agree to sponsor the event (or an event sponsor’s designated player) at a level determined by the Tournament Director. The sponsorship opportunity must not be exclusive and must be publicly posted so anyone can meet the requirements to be part of the Event Sponsorship Exception if they so choose.

         3. Volunteers Exception

            TDs may offer tiered registration to volunteers for their work in prepping the course etc., for the event at a level determined by the TD. That volunteer opportunity must not be exclusive and must be publicly posted so anyone can meet the requirements to be part of the Volunteer Exception if they so choose.

   4. PDGA Club Permitted Exception – “Club Members Only” Events

      1. PDGA Clubs with large numbers of members may run a PDGA-sanctioned event where registration is open only to the registered members of the PDGA Club. See 6.03.B.1 for what constitutes an PDGA Club outside the United States and Canada.
      2. Club membership must not be exclusive and must be publicly posted so anyone can meet the requirements to be part of the PDGA Club if they so choose.
      3. Registration must be first-come, first-served to all the PDGA Club members.
      4. Since they are not open to the general public, such events will be designated as an “X” Tier (XC, XB, XA, etc.), and the event name must include the phrase “ – Club Members Only Event” (example: “Shooting the Breeze with the Augusta DGC – Club Members Only Event”).
4. Waitlists will be maintained (overall, by class, or by division) based on the caps that have been publicized in advance.
5. Entries received via online entry shall be date and time-stamped based on the actual time the entry fee was received at the online entry point.
6. In the event that multiple entries are received simultaneously, the player with the lowest PDGA number shall have priority.
7. Events must post pre-registration lists on the PDGA event results page, post waitlists on the official registration page, and update those lists at least weekly.
8. Only paid registrants should be listed on the published tournament list.

1. Players must email or phone their withdrawals to the Tournament Director only at the contact information posted for the tournament. Discussions with persons other than the Tournament Director, including other tournament staff, shall not be considered official.
2. Players who have paid more than a nominal waitlist fee of $10 to be on an event’s waitlist who do not get into the event, or who officially request to withdraw from the waitlist prior to the event’s published closure of registration and waitlist replacements (within one week is recommended), will receive a 100% monetary refund of that waitlist fee (minus up to a $10 handling fee). Waitlist players who only paid a nominal non-refundable waitlist fee of $10 or less will not receive a refund.
3. Players who officially request to withdraw from an event at least 30 days before the start of the event will receive a 100% monetary refund of their entry fee (minus up to a $10 handling fee).
4. Players who officially request to withdraw from an event 15 to 29 days before the start of the event will receive a 100% monetary refund of their entry fee minus up to a $10 handling fee only if their spot in the tournament is filled by a player who is on the waitlist at the time of the withdrawal request. If the player’s spot is not filled, the TD has the choice to provide either a 50% monetary refund of their entry fee or just the player’s pack the player would have received if they had attended (minus the cost of shipping). In the case of a player in a Pro division for an event without a Pro player pack worth at least 25% of the Entry Fee, the TD will provide the 50% monetary refund.
5. Players who officially request to withdraw from an event within 14 days of the start of the event and prior to the event’s published closure of registration and waitlist replacements (within one week is recommended) will receive a 100% monetary refund minus up to a $10 handling fee only if their spot in the tournament is filled by a player who is on the waitlist at the time of the withdrawal request. If the player’s spot is not filled, the TD has the choice to provide either a 25% monetary refund or just the player’s pack they would have received if they had attended (minus the cost of shipping). In the case of a player in a Pro division for an event without a Pro player pack worth at least 25% of the Entry Fee, the TD will provide the 25% monetary refund.
6. Players who request withdrawal within 48 hours of the start of play, or who request withdrawal after the published close of registration and the published end of waitlist replacements, are not entitled to a refund. If a TD fills a player’s spot with a player on the waitlist at the time of withdrawal after the published close of registration and the published end of waitlist replacements, but more than 48 hours prior to the start of play, that player must receive a 100% monetary refund of their entry fee.
7. Tournament Directors for Major, Elite Series, and A-Tier events may petition the PDGA Director of Event Support to change the timeline for items C, D, and E. If granted, the policy must be clearly published with all registration materials.
8. If a TD vacates an offered division due to a lack of registered players for the division (see 2.02.L), any player for that division that does not wish to move to a different division that they are eligible for will be provided a full refund.
9. If a Tournament Director cancels an event, all currently registered or waitlisted players must receive a 100% monetary refund of their entry or waitlist fee. Only in the case of a disaster beyond the control of the TD that prevents the event from taking place by making the venue(s) unavailable, and only with prior approval from the PDGA Director of Event Support, may a TD provide players registered for Amateur divisions with a player pack and a partial monetary refund in the amount of the difference between the retail value of the player pack and the amount of the entry fee.
10. If a Tournament Director postpones an event, all players currently registered or waitlisted for the original date at the time of postponement must receive a 100% monetary refund of their entry or waitlist fee if they request it. Only in the case of a disaster beyond the control of the TD that prevents the event from taking place by making the venue(s) unavailable, and only with prior approval from the PDGA Director of Event Support, may a TD provide players registered for Amateur divisions with a player pack and a partial monetary refund in the amount of the difference between the retail value of the player pack and the amount of the entry fee. Once a new date is announced, all prior registrants who are still registered or waitlisted must be notified by email and given a reasonable opportunity to receive a 100% monetary refund of their entry or waitlist fee if they determine they are unable to attend the event on its new date.
11. It is highly recommended that high-capacity events do not include personalized items within their player packs due to the complexity that creates for withdrawals and refunds. Personalized items should only be offered as merchandise for purchase during registration for a separate non-refundable fee that is not part of the tournament entry fee.
12. For exceptions related to events outside the United States and Canada, please see 6.03.C.1.

1. Players are required to check in with the Tournament Director or designated tournament staff member at A-Tier and B-Tier events. This is suggested for all other Tiers.
2. The Tournament Director cannot require in-person pre-tournament check-in on any day prior to the start of competition but may offer it as a convenience to players.
3. Any player who does not check in by the time(s) specified by the Tournament Director shall forfeit their official place and entry fee.
   
   1. As detailed in 1.03.F, such day-of drops will not receive a refund even if a waitlister takes their place.
   2. Exceptions will be made only at the sole discretion of the Tournament Director.
4. The Tournament Director should notify players of check-in requirements on the registration page or via email no less than 48 hours prior to the earliest check-in time.
5. At A-Tier events using a staggered start with scheduled tee times, players must also check in with the starter no less than 5 minutes prior to their tee time each day and be present at the starting hole for the 5 minutes preceding their tee time each day. Players who do not check in with the starter by this time or who are not present at the starting hole for the 5 minutes preceding their tee time receive two penalty throws added to their starting hole. This is recommended for staggered starts with scheduled tee times at all other Tiers.
6. If a player is later deemed to be absent for the first hole under 811.F.5, Misplay, then the penalty in 1.04.C does not apply. The player only receives the penalty for being absent.
7. See 4.05 for check-in requirements for Majors and Elite Series events.

1. Players are responsible for scheduling their practice rounds prior to the event. Availability of the course and its tournament set-up for practice rounds may vary (see 5.03, 5.05, 5.08, and 5.09). The course or courses are closed to practice during the tournament and at all other times designated by the Tournament Director.
2. Three types of starts are used to begin competitive play:
   

   1. Shotgun start

      At a shotgun start, groups are assigned to begin play on different holes simultaneously.

      1. The two-minute signal is a notification to all players that practice has ceased and that all PDGA rules and regulations are in force, and that the Tournament Director intends to begin play in two minutes.
         
         1. The two-minute signal shall be sounded by the Tournament Director or designated Tournament Official by a method that informs all players on the course.
         2. If a horn is used, the signal is sounded by two blasts.
      2. The start signal is a notification to all players that play has begun.
         
         1. The start signal shall be sounded by the Tournament Director or designated Tournament Official by a method that informs all players on the course.
         2. If a horn is used, the signal is sounded by one long blast.
      3. The course or courses are closed to practice while competitive rounds are in progress and at all other times designated by the Tournament Director.

   2. Staggered start

      At a staggered start, also known as a tee time start, groups start one after another on a certain hole.

      1. Groups shall start at the time announced by the Tournament Director and check in with the starter as required by 1.04.
      2. Players may practice in any area designated by the Tournament Director until the starter indicates the two-minute signal for their group.
      3. The course or courses are closed to practice while competitive rounds are in progress unless the Tournament Director specifies otherwise.

   3. Flex start

      At a flex start, players may choose their own starting time, their own playing group, or both.

      1. This format is only available for one-day, one-round events sanctioned at C-Tier level and for Leagues.
      2. The grouping and sectioning requirements of 1.06.A and C do not apply to flex starts.
      3. The Tournament Director may adjust starting times and playing groups.
      4. Flex starts are staggered starts in all other respects.
3. A throw by a player between the two-minute signal and the start of the round shall receive a warning if observed by two or more players or an official. Subsequent throws by the player during this period, if observed by two or more players or an official, shall result in one penalty throw added to the player’s score, regardless of the number of throws.
4. It is the sole responsibility of the player to know the course rules, be at their starting hole, and be ready to play in time for the start of their round.
5. Players who are absent for their starting hole or any subsequent hole have committed misplay (see 811.F.5 and 6, Misplay). If a complete round is missed, or if a player does not finish a round, the player may, at the discretion of the Tournament Director, be disqualified.
6. Late-arriving players, for either Shotgun or Tee Time rounds, are responsible for checking with the TD, Tournament Central, or the Tee Time Starter to learn their correct starting group and are solely responsible for starting play with that playing group or the group created by the TD due to the player’s absence. Failure to do so is a misplay (see 811.F.10, Misplay).
7. The Tournament Director must provide a scorecard to each player in the group. These scorecards may be digital or physical, so long as they meet the requirements in 808, Scoring.See 6.03.D.1 for events outside the United States and Canada.
8. Paper scorecards must always be made available to each playing group, regardless of what the Tournament Director has declared to be the official method of scoring.

1. Professional and Amateur players should not be grouped together. Divisions should be grouped together as much as is practicable.
2. When there are more entrants than can play together in one round, the field of competitors may be split into pools. Players within a division must play the exact same layouts during competition.
3. All players within a division should be grouped for the first round via one of the following methods (see 1.05.B.3.b and 6.03.E for exceptions):
   
   1. Random grouping; players within a division may be randomly grouped for the first round. All team events should use this option.
   2. Player Rating grouping; players within a division may be grouped by player rating to set first round groups. Highest-rated player starting on the lowest number hole, the second-highest-rated player starting on the following hole, etc. This process would continue until all starting holes have been filled. For example, a division of 12 players across 3 holes set by the ranking of their ratings would be:
      
      1. Hole 1: Players 1, 4, 7, and 10
      2. Hole 2: Players 2, 5, 8, and 11
      3. Hole 3: Players 3, 6, 9, and 12
   3. In the case of a division that is large enough to be in multiple pools, the players must be split by rating (example: 72 highest ratings in Pool A and 72 lowest ratings in Pool B) and then randomized within each pool for the first round.
   4. At PDGA Leagues, players may determine their own groups and, if the League uses staggered start times, their own start time (see 1.14.C.6).
4. For all subsequent rounds, players should be grouped by division as much as is practicable.
5. Within a division, players should be grouped by lowest score (see 1.09 for breaking ties). The group with the lowest scores starts on the lowest-numbered hole, and so on. If tee times are in use, the group with the lowest scores has the latest tee time.
6. For tiebreaking procedures for players with the same total score, see 1.09.
7. To promote fairness, groups shall not consist of fewer than three players, except under extenuating circumstances, as deemed necessary by the Tournament Director. In cases where fewer than three players are required to play together, a designated Tournament Official (see 1.12.A) must accompany the group and may play as long as that does not interfere with the competing players.
8. Groups shall not be more than five players and should be limited to four players whenever possible. In teams play, groups may exceed five players due to team size or odd numbers of teams competing.
9. First round feature groups for media purposes are not allowed unless for video coverage and previously approved by each player within the group and by the PDGA Director of Event Support.
10. A ghost group is a designation for a secondary group of players that is assigned a starting hole already occupied by another group of players. Ghost groups are only to be used to resolve emergency situations, such as a hole being unexpectedly rendered unplayable by flooding, downed power line, or other circumstances outside the control of the Tournament Director.
    
    1. A ghost group will always tee second on the hole as the lowered-numbered hole for both first-round groupings (see 1.06.B) and subsequent rounds (see 1.06.D).
    2. Ghost groups should start on a shorter length hole after a longer/more difficult hole to minimize the impact on course-flow and speed of play.
11. At staggered start events with scheduled tee times, Tournament Directors must post tee times on the PDGA event page for all players in a given division no later than 12 hours prior to the first tee time for that division or one hour after the conclusion of play of the previous round for that division, whichever is later.

The safety of everyone at PDGA-sanctioned events is of paramount importance. TDs are highly encouraged to make use of all available resources such as lightning detectors and online weather maps (that display storms and lightning strikes moving into the area) in order to suspend play before conditions become dangerous to the players, staff, and spectators. (see PDGA Mid-Event Suspension & Cancellation Policy)

1. If, in the opinion of the Tournament Director, lightning, excessive rain or hazardous conditions exist that make it impractical or dangerous to continue play, the tournament shall be suspended.
   
   1. The signal to suspend playis a notification to all players that play has been suspended.
   2. The signal to suspend play shall be sounded by the Tournament Director or designated Tournament Official by a method that informs all players.
   3. If a horn is used, the signal is sounded by three blasts.
   4. After 60 seconds, the signal to suspend must be sounded a second time.
2. Players must immediately stop play and mark the lie of each member of the group. A natural object is sufficient to mark the approximate lie from which the player shall resume play. Players shall take shelter. When appropriate, players should return to the first tee area, clubhouse, Tournament Central or to an area designated by the Tournament Director. There will be a minimum thirty-minute suspension of play after the suspension signal.
3. Players shall resume play from their approximate lies as established when the round was suspended. The approximate lie is determined by a majority of the group.
4. The Tournament Director will evaluate the conditions and assign a time not less than thirty minutes from the suspension signal for the players to return for a resume time or delay renewal.
5. Play shall be resumed using the same signals as at the start of the round: a two-minute signal consisting of two short blasts, then a single extended blast two minutes later to indicate the round has restarted.
6. The Tournament Director may postpone the incomplete portion of the round for a later date within the scheduled tournament if, in the Tournament Director’s opinion, the conditions will not improve or if darkness will fall prior to the projected finish time. (see PDGA Mid-Event Suspension & Cancellation Policy)
7. Partial round scores shall be carried forward to the completion of the round whenever the round is resumed.
8. A player who stops playing before a signal to stop has been given shall receive two penalty throws if there is evidence that the player stopped playing prematurely. A player who continues play after the announcement of an official stoppage in play shall receive two penalty throws if there is evidence that the player was aware of the stoppage.
9. The Tournament Director will make every effort to ensure all rounds of the tournament are completed as scheduled.
   
   1. If a total of three full preliminary rounds or less are scheduled, all players must complete a minimum of one round for the event to be considered official.
   2. If a total of four full preliminary rounds or more are scheduled, all players must complete a minimum of two rounds for the event to be considered official.
   3. If those criteria are not met, the event should be rescheduled. If rescheduling is impossible and/or players are unable to participate, a full refund will be issued minus player’s package, PDGA, and other associated event fees.
10. All suspended rounds shall be completed, unless conditions exist that make it impossible. If such conditions exist, the results shall be final as of the last completed round as long as the necessary round requirements are met. (see PDGA Mid-Event Suspension & Cancellation Policy)
11. The completion of a suspended round is a higher priority than a future round and thus future rounds shall be canceled in order to complete a suspended round.

1. The field may be reduced (cut) for a semi-finals or finals at the discretion of the Tournament Director, provided that is announced prior to opening player registration for the event. The only exception may be due to the PDGA Mid-Event Suspension & Cancellation Policy being invoked to finish an event.
2. Unless otherwise announced in advance by the Tournament Director, all ties for a semi-final or final cut will be broken by the use of a tiebreaker (see 1.09).
3. Making the cut line at or above the payout line is required so that all payout positions who make the cut get paid. If additional players below the payout line made the cut due to ties, only those players remaining at least tied for a payout position would get paid. The only exceptions are when the PDGA Mid-Event Suspension and Cancellation Policy is invoked to finish an event, or as outlined in the 6.03.F.
4. Any eligible player who chooses not to participate in a semi-final or final shall receive ranking and cash or prizes equal to finishing last in the remaining field.
5. Players who do not make the cut have completed all tournament rounds. Any further competition between those players is unofficial and should not be reported or affect the published results (see also 1.09.E).

1. When sorting groups under 1.06.E, ties for position are broken as if the following player has the lower total score:
   
   1. First, a player with a lower score in the more recent round;
   2. Second, among players with identical round scores for the event, the player with the lower PDGA number (a player with no PDGA number loses this tiebreaker);
   3. Finally, among players with no PDGA number, the player whose last name comes first in alphabetical order.

2. Playoffs:

   Except where noted below in 1.09.D, final ties for first place in any division must be broken by a playoff, either sudden-death or aggregate. If ties are being broken for the reduction of field size, they also must be broken by these procedures. Under no circumstances should any other method such as hot round, head-to-head scores, etc. be used to break a tie for first place. The Official Rules of Disc Golf and the Competition Manual apply during playoffs, but the throws do not accrue to the players' scores or break ties for any position other than first.

   1. Sudden-death is a playoff format where the player or players with the lowest score on a hole move on to the next hole and all other players are eliminated. When only one player has the lowest score on a hole, that player has won the tiebreaker and sudden-death play is over.
   2. Aggregate is a playoff format where the competitors play a set of 6 or fewer holes that have been announced by the TD, where the lowest score on all holes wins the playoff. Players who are tied after an aggregate playoff proceed to sudden-death play on those same holes, unless a different set of holes has been announced by the TD.
   3. Playoffs shall begin, wherever possible, on the same course and layout as the previous round on hole number one unless a different course, hole, or series of holes is designated by the Tournament Director prior to the start of the tournament.
   4. Playoffs must use the same format as the previous round (e.g., medal play, match play, team play) unless another format is designated by the Tournament Director prior to the start of the tournament. In team play, each team is considered a player for the purposes of this section. Any playoff that uses team play to break ties for an event conducted wholly as singles play, or that uses singles play to break ties for an event conducted wholly as team play, must do so for a compelling competitive reason and must be approved prior to the start of the event by the Director of Event Support.
   5. The specific order in which players tee off for the first hole of a playoff shall be determined by random draw (e.g., numbered playing cards, selecting tee positions from a hat, etc.).
   6. In the case of a tied hole during sudden-death play, the teeing order for the next hole will rotate from the order used on the just completed hole, such that the player who teed first on the previous hole relative to the remaining players will now tee last, the player who teed second will now tee first, and so on.
   7. During an aggregate playoff, the teeing order will instead rotate in the manner described by 802.02, Order of Play.
   8. If the aggregate playoff ends with two or more players still tied, the teeing order will rotate:
      
      1. in the manner described by 802.02 to set the teeing order for the first hole of sudden-death play; and
      2. in the manner described by 1.09.B.6 for the remainder of sudden-death play.
   9. Players may decline to participate in a playoff. Their ranking and cash or prizes will be determined as if they had declined to participate in a semi-final or final among the tied players (see 1.08.D).
3. First place cash or prizes must be awarded to the division winner and listed in the event results. Cash or prizes may not be evenly split between any players tied for first place except as noted in 1.09.D.
4. Exceptions to the requirement for first place tiebreakers:
   
   1. A tie for first place at a flex start event where a tied competitor has already left the event.
   2. A tie for first place caused by the necessity of calling an event due to dangerous conditions where there is no time left on the regularly scheduled final day of competition to complete the event or break a tie for first place. Under no circumstances should players be expected, or asked, to return on a day following the last day of the regularly scheduled rounds to finish the event (see PDGA Mid-Event Suspension & Cancellation Policy).
   3. If a playoff cannot be held during the last day of regularly scheduled rounds for the competition, the tie for first place will stand with the players declared co-champions and the cash and prizes for the ranked places split between the players if two players are tied for first place, they split the first and second place cash or prizes).
5. Final ties for other ranks shall be officially recorded as ties. Prize money distribution to tied players (other than for first place) shall be determined by adding the total money allocated to the number of positions represented by the tied players and dividing that by the number of players tied. Trophy distribution for ties may be determined by a playoff or by any related disc golf skill event determined by the Tournament Director, but only for the purpose of awarding trophies; the players must remain officially recorded as tied in the results.

1. Any player accepting cash in a Professional division at a PDGA-sanctioned event (except Leagues, see 1.14.C.2) must have a PDGA number for tracking purposes prior to the start of the event (players receiving a PDGA number after event registration must alert the TD prior to the event). Non-PDGA-numbered players are only eligible for trophies, and any cash payouts at or below that place would move down one place causing an additional place to be paid.
2. An Amateur-class member playing in a Professional division (see 2.04.C) may not accept merchandise in lieu of cash at events sanctioned at A-Tier and above; however, they may accept a trophy for their finishing place if available.  All cash payouts at or below that place would move down one place causing an additional place to be paid. Amateurs playing in a Professional division may accept merchandise in lieu of cash at other Tier levels at the Tournament Director’s sole discretion. Otherwise, all cash payouts at or below that place would move down one place, causing an additional place to be paid. This does not apply to Leagues (see 1.14.C.3).
3. The required Added Cash for a Tier level must be allocated across all Professional divisions based on the percentage of entry fees brought into the overall Professional portion of the event by each division. Added cash above the minimum may be allocated at the TD’s discretion.
4. Events with more than two rounds must post payout (including all added cash) prior to the start of the last round.
5. Any prizes (money or merchandise) declined by a player must pass down to the next finishing position(example: If a player placing third declines their prize, the player in fourth place will receive the third-place prize, the player in fifth will receive the fourth-place prize, etc.). Tournaments are allowed to retain prizes that have been declined by all players within a division only after the declined prizes have been passed through all finishing positions.
6. The usage of skins (and other similar formats) is permitted at PDGA events but those scores are not allowed to determine a player’s overall standing in the event and prizes are not credited towards a player’s winnings.
7. Any prizes that a player has earned will be distributed at the completion of the event once the results have been tabulated and verified.
   
   1. Tournament Directors may award prizes earlier at their discretion.
   2. Players who leave before the official distribution of prizes do not relinquish their winnings, but they are responsible for contacting the TD as soon as possible to arrange for claiming those winnings and are also responsible for any associated shipping costs.
   3. If a TD uses electronic payments (such as PayPal) for Professional cash prizes, those prizes must be distributed within two business days of the completion of the event. TDs must provide cash or checks to those who do not have the ability to receive payment electronically.
   4. If a TD uses merchandise vouchers for Amateur payout, they must be redeemable at the event or afterwards via online fulfillment. The TD must specify how payout will be handled in their pre-registration materials.
   5. Any prizes (money, trophies, or merchandise) that remain unclaimed (through no fault of the TD) 30 days after the completion of the event are then relinquished by the player. TDs must make a reasonable effort to provide the payout to the player by contacting them, offering to ship, etc. A player has claimed a gift certificate, gift card, gift code, or similar prize upon receiving it, and this time limit does not apply to the redemption of such certificates, cards, codes, or similar prizes.

1. To be a Certified Official, an individual must be a current PDGA member, pass the PDGA Certified Rules Official Exam, and register as an official with the PDGA. Upon significant changes to the Official Rules of Disc Golf, the PDGA Board of Directors may require Certified Officials to pass an updated exam to retain their Certified Official status.
2. Tournament Directors (and Assistant TDs) are required to be current Certified Officials in order to sanction or run any PDGA event.
3. The exam is based upon the Official Rules of Disc Golf and the PDGA Competition Manual.
4. Being a Certified Official does not make an individual a Tournament Official who can make rulings at PDGA events (see 1.12.A).

1. Only the following are Tournament Officials (see 801.02.G) for a given event:
   
   1. the Tournament Director (see 801.02.F); and
   2. those Certified Officials (as defined in 1.11.A) that have been designated by the Tournament Director; and
   3. PDGA Marshals as designated by the PDGA Director of Competition.
2. Only Tournament Officials may make rulings at PDGA-sanctioned events beyond those calls allowed by the rules to be made by the players or playing group themselves.
3. Spectators are not Tournament Officials and may not make rulings. Players in the event who are not designated Tournament Officials and are not actively playing in the round (either have finished or have not yet started) are considered spectators.
4. Each Tournament Official must carry copies of the tournament/course rules, the Official Rules of Disc Golf, and the PDGA Competition Manual at all times. These copies may be printed or digital.
5. If any Tournament Official competes in the tournament, they may not officiate for any ruling within their own division other than as a member of a playing group as allowed by the rules.
6. A Tournament Official’s ruling supersedes the ruling of the playing group, but an appeal may be made to the Chief Official who is the Tournament Director, or their appointed Chief Official.
7. Generally, the ruling of a Tournament Spotter (see 801.02.H) does not supersede the ruling of the group. However, the Tournament Director may grant spotters who are Certified Officials limited authority to act as a Tournament Official for one or more specific types of ruling, such as determining where a disc was last in-bounds.
8. Photo or video evidence may only be used by the Tournament Director or a Tournament Official to:
   
   1. Clarify the meaning of course markings that indicate teeing areas under 802.04.A, restricted routes under 804.01, regulated areas under 806, or drop zones. This includes clarifying that a marking on the course is not relevant to competition.
   2. Make rulings related to player misconduct (as defined in 3.03). This evidence may be provided by anyone present who witnessed the misconduct. Evidence of player misconduct may also be evaluated at any time by the PDGA Disciplinary Committee.

1. Parents/guardians must be responsible for their children during PDGA-sanctioned events. Neither the PDGA staff nor the event staff are responsible for the children of tournament players, spectators, etc. during events. Parents/guardians may not leave unaccompanied children at or near the scoring area, clubhouse, or any other tournament venue. Any child younger than 13 years of age who is accompanying any player group must be supervised by an adult who is not part of that player group and not a caddie.
2. Players in the Junior ≤12, Junior ≤10, Junior ≤08, and Junior ≤06 divisions must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during tournament rounds. Additionally, any player younger than 13 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian regardless of the division they play in. A single parent or guardian may be responsible for multiple junior players in the same group if agreed upon by all of the parents/guardians prior to the start of the round. Players in the Junior ≤18 and Junior ≤15 divisions may be accompanied by a parent or guardian during tournament rounds.
3. During PDGA-sanctioned tournament rounds, parents/guardians accompanying junior division players:
   
   1. MAY assume the roles of a caddie; assist junior players with disc selection, throw selection, rule interpretations, or scorekeeping.
   2. MAY NOT make or second rulings such as foot faults, courtesy violations, etc.
   3. MUST encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all junior players in the group.
   4. MUST place the emotional and physical well-being of all junior players in the group above the personal desire to win.
   5. MUST refrain from the use of abusive or profane language.
   6. MUST refrain from using drugs, alcohol, or tobacco.
4. Failure to adhere to the parent/guardian responsibilities outlined in section 1.13 shall result in the disqualification of the junior player or removal of the offending player, caddie, or guardian. Junior players under 13 years of age whose guardian has been removed may continue to play if a substitute guardian volunteers to take their place with the consent of the removed guardian.
5. The PDGA highly recommends that Tournament Directors create their tournament schedules to ensure that all players in the two youngest age groups, Junior ≤08 and Junior ≤06, be scheduled to play no more than 18 holes in one day. Additionally, TDs should use their discretion to possibly limit the amount of daily play concerning the Junior ≤10 divisions (age 10 and younger) depending on the length and strenuousness of their course.
6. See 6.03.G for guidance for events outside the United States and Canada.

1. PDGA Leagues are the lowest Tier of PDGA-sanctioned events. Rather than a single tournament, Leagues feature one round per week, on the same day of the week each week, for six to ten consecutive weeks (e.g., eight consecutive Mondays, or ten consecutive Fridays). Leagues may skip a week due to weather or other extenuating circumstances upon approval of PDGA staff.
2. A maximum of two layouts on the same course may be used in a given League round, but layouts and courses may vary week to week.
3. The Official Rules of Disc Golf and the Competition Manual apply to PDGA League play, with the following exceptions:
   
   1. Non-current members and non-members do not pay a temporary membership fee to compete in Leagues (see 1.01.B.2).
   2. Players may win cash prizes without having a PDGA member number (see 1.10.A).
   3. Amateur players may accept cash prizes without affecting their Amateur status (see 2.02.G).
   4. Where local law and event venue rules permit, players who are of legal age to do so may use or display alcohol between the two-minute signal and submitting their scorecard (see 3.03.B.5). However, players still may not drink to excess or be publicly intoxicated (see 3.03.B.6).
   5. Children under 13 who are accompanying a group may be supervised by an adult in the playing group (see 1.13.A). Children under 13 accompanying the playing group are subject to the provisions of 812, Courtesy, and 3.03, with any penalties incurred by that child applied to the supervising player.
   6. The provisions of 1.06.A and B do not apply to Leagues.
   7. Players may play in different divisions from week to week but may not play more than once in any given week of a League.

1. Open divisions have no upper ratings boundary and no age requirements. They may have ratings floors at Major and Elite Series events (see 4.02) or require that a member be Amateur-class or qualify under the Pros Playing Am rubric (see 5.05.A). The open divisions are:
   
   1. Mixed Pro Open (MPO)
   2. Women's Pro Open (FPO)
   3. Gold (RPA)
   4. Mixed Amateur 1 (MA1)
   5. Women's Amateur 1 (FA1)
2. Ratings-based divisions have ratings caps that prevent higher-rated players from competing in those divisions. The ratings-based divisions are:
   
   1. Blue (RAH)
   2. Mixed Amateur 2 (MA2)
   3. Women's Amateur 2 (FA2)
   4. White (RAD)
   5. Mixed Amateur 3 (MA3)
   6. Women's Amateur 3 (FA3)
   7. Red (RAE)
   8. Mixed Amateur 4 (MA4)
   9. Women's Amateur 4 (FA4)
   10. Green (RAF)
   11. Purple (RAG)
3. Gender-based divisions are divisions where eligibility is subject to the PDGA Policy on Eligibility for Gender-Based Divisions. Any division labeled "Women's" or "Girls" or whose division code has the prefix "FP," "FA," or "FJ" is a gender-based division.
4. Age-based divisions are divisions where eligibility is based on the player's year of birth. For example, a player who turns 40 in a given year is considered to be 40 for eligibility purposes for that whole year. Any division labeled "Masters" or "Juniors," or who code ends in a two-digit age such as "08" or "65," is an age-based division.

1. Players are not allowed to enter a division for which they are ineligible due to their membership status, player class, gender, age, or player rating. Please see the Divisions, Ratings, and Point Factors table.
2. A player is solely responsible for knowing what division(s) they are eligible to compete in. Entry into an ineligible division may result in disqualification from the event and/or suspension from PDGA events (see 2.03 for exceptions).
3. After the close of registration, players may not request to change their division unless their division has three or fewer people. Players must request this prior to the start of competition. TDs may approve or deny this request in their sole discretion.
4. If, after the start of an event, a Tournament Director discovers that a player is in a division they are not eligible for, they may move that player to the correct division for subsequent rounds, but ONLY if both of the divisions played the exact same layout. If not, the player must be removed from the event.
5. Players may not compete more than once in a single event. Each entry on the PDGA calendar is considered a separate event. For Leagues, see 1.14.C.7.
6. A player must properly identify themselves by name and PDGA number when competing in a PDGA-sanctioned event. Players who wish to remain anonymous or who assume a false identity will be disqualified from the event and face potential suspension from the PDGA tour.
7. Professional players playing in a Professional division compete for money. Amateur players playing in a Professional division may only accept money by becoming a Professional, or they may decline money and accept only a trophy (if one is available) to retain their Amateur status (see 1.10.A and 1.10.B). However, Amateurs who accept cash at PDGA Leagues do not become a Professional or lose their Amateur status by doing so (see 1.14.C.3).
8. Players playing in an Amateur division compete for trophies and/or prizes.
9. Players who are eligible for gender-based divisions may compete in mixed divisions if they wish, but players who are only eligible for mixed divisions may not compete in gender-based divisions.
10. An Amateur player may compete in any Professional division for which they are eligible based on age, gender, and event format.
11. A PDGA Professional member may only compete in Amateur divisions in select cases (see 2.05).
12. A Tournament Director may limit the divisions they wish to offer at their event by listing only the divisions they plan to offer on their registration form.
    
    1. If a division is offered and at least four eligible players register for that division, that division must be held.
    2. If a division is underserved as defined in 1.02.C.2.c, the division must be held if at least one player registers for the division. This does not apply to Majors.
    3. In all other cases, it is at the Tournament Director's discretion whether to hold the division or not (see 1.03.H for refund policy in that case).
13. PDGA members, whether current or not, shall be allowed to play in any offered division for which they are eligible. All local rules that force a player to move up divisions based on previous performance are invalid and are not applicable to PDGA members at PDGA-sanctioned events.
14. For players without a PDGA number, Tournament Directors may estimate their Player Rating based on direct knowledge of their demonstrated skill and ability.
    
    1. If the player signs up for a ratings-based division (see 2.01.B), the TD may use that estimated Player Rating to assign the player to a different ratings-based division or MA1 or FA1 as appropriate.
    2. If the player registers for an open division (see 2.01.A) or an age-based division (2.01.D) for which they qualify, the player is treated the same as PDGA members (see 2.02.M).
    3. A player who is assigned a division by the TD under 2.02.N.1 and who then purchases a PDGA membership prior to the start of play may move to and compete in any ratings-based division for which they qualify under 2.02.M.

1. In a given event, players may compete in a ratings-based division for which they are otherwise ineligible if:
   
   1. They were registered for that event and in that division; and
   2. They were eligible for that division at the time of registration; and
   3. They became ineligible for that division due to a ratings update that took place within two weeks of the start of competition for that event; and
   4. The Tournament Director approves; and
   5. The Tournament Director gets approval from the PDGA Director of Event Support.
2. In events within a points Series, players may compete in a ratings-based division for which they are otherwise ineligible under the requirements of 2.03.A or if:
   
   1. The Series Director has received prior approval to allow this exception from the PDGA Director of Event Support; and
   2. The Series allows players to stay in the division for the entire Series; and
   3. The player has not competed in a higher division at any time during the Series; and
   4. The player's rating is not more than 20 points higher than the rating ceiling for the division.
   5. The player has previously competed in that division during the Series.
3. Nothing in 2.03.A or 2.03.B shall apply to Professional-class players competing in Amateur divisions.
4. Tournament Directors may exclude otherwise-eligible players from a division under the circumstances outlined in the Banning a Player from a PDGA-Sanctioned Event policy.

1. Professional to Amateur
   
   1. Players registered with the PDGA as Professionals may petition the PDGA Memberships Manager or PDGA Director of Event Support for reclassification as Amateurs.
   2. Players must meet all requirements in order to reclassify.
2. Amateur to Professional
   
   1. An Amateur wishing to change their classification to Professional may do so by contacting the PDGA Memberships Manager.
   2. An Amateur player is automatically reclassified as Professional when the player has accepted cash while competing in a Professional division (see 1.10.A and 1.10.B). This does not apply to Leagues, see 1.14.C.3.
   3. Accepting cash for winning an ancillary contest such as an ace pool, top-of-the-card round prize, or CTP contest does not cause a player to relinquish their amateur status.

1. Professionals may compete in Amateur divisions offered at A-Tier, B-Tier, and C-Tier events, as well as Leagues, for which they qualify based on player rating, age, and gender as detailed in the PROS PLAYING AM section of the Divisions, Ratings, and Points Factors table.
2. Such players are awarded Amateur points for their performance but these points are not eligible for Pro year-end awards or Pro Worlds invitations.
3. Amateur players competing in Pro divisions are awarded Pro points for their performance but those points are not eligible for Amateur year-end awards or Amateur Worlds invitations.

1. True Amateur (also referred to as "trophy only") is the designation used by the PDGA in reference to those amateur events at A-Tier and below, or the amateur portions of events, which promote the true spirit of amateur athletics by presenting only trophies to the top finishers of the tournament rather than a payout in merchandise.
2. All players in the event receive equal value through player packs. A player pack may consist of commemorative items and/or tournament amenities.
   
   1. The combined retail value of the player packs in a given division should meet or exceed the value of the Tier-required minimum payout for that division. For example, if a six-person division's Tier-required minimum payout is $240, each player pack must be worth at least $40.
   2. Examples of player pack items include, but are not limited to:
      
      1. Tangible disc golf items, such as discs, minis, or towels.
      2. Apparel, such as shirts, hats, or outerwear.
      3. Food items, such as snacks or catered meals.
      4. Any other item that meets the requirements of the PDGA Allowable Items Toward Player Pack Value document.
3. Each division must pay out a minimum number of trophies as listed below. TDs may offer more trophies than the minimum at their discretion. For the purposes of acquiring and awarding trophies, TDs may specify a cutoff date for determining how many trophies each division will get, so long as that date is no more than two weeks prior to the start of competition.
   
   1. One player: no trophy required.
   2. 2-4 players: 1st place only.
   3. 5-12 players: 1st and 2nd place.
   4. 13+ players: 1st through 3rd place.
4. Tournament Directors must advertise the use of the True Amateur format in pre-registration materials.

1. All PDGA members should refrain from any conduct which is detrimental to the game of disc golf and to the PDGA, both on and off the course.
2. All players must abide by the Official Rules of Disc Golf and the Competition Manual.
3. Devices capable of making audible sound or flashing light must not make audible sound or flashing light from the two-minute signal until the scorecard is submitted.
   
   1. If a player’s device makes audible sound or flashing light, it is a courtesy violation (see 812, Courtesy). However, the use of a device deemed medically necessary by the player’s physician, such as a glucose monitor, shall not be a courtesy violation.
   2. Devices that make audible sound must be used exclusively with headphones or earbuds, and the volume must be kept at a level that:
      
      1. cannot be heard by other players;
      2. allows the player to effectively interact with their group, such as scorekeeping or looking for lost discs; and
      3. does not create a safety hazard for player due to the inability to hear warning signals by other players or tournament staff.
   3. Failure to effectively interact with the playing group as required by rule due to the use of headphones or earbuds is considered a courtesy violation (see 812, Courtesy).
4. Animals may not accompany players with the exception of players whose disability or medical condition requires the use of a legally-defined service animal.
   
   1. Players are required to notify the Tournament Director prior to the event if they will be accompanied by a legally-defined service animal during play.
   2. If, in the opinion of the Tournament Director, a service animal presents a distraction or disruption, that animal will no longer be permitted to accompany the playing group.
5. The PDGA reserves the right to determine and enforce further disciplinary action upon its players and members, which may result in probation or suspension from PDGA-sanctioned events or permanent loss of PDGA membership. For more information see the PDGA Disciplinary Process.

1. All competitors shall play without undue delay and make every effort to keep up with the group in front of them. Undue delay means delays in play, other than as permitted by rule, that affect the pace of play of the group behind them.
2. Players and groups are expected to move without delay from the completion of one hole to the teeing area of the next hole so as not to affect the pace of play of the group behind them. During play on a hole, a player or group shall not cause undue delay by their actions or inaction.
3. A player causing undue delays may be issued an excessive time violation by the playing group or a Tournament Official (see 802.03, Excessive Time).
4. If a group as a whole causes undue delay, each player should be issued an excessive time violation by a Tournament Official (see 802.03, Excessive Time). Examples of this include:
   
   1. A group remaining by the target of a completed hole to record scores.
   2. A group that neglects to start the clock or enforce the time limit when searching for a lost disc (see 805.03, Lost Disc).
   3. A group whose actions unrelated to play halt or slow play.
5. If, in the sole discretion of the Tournament Director or a designated Tournament Official, a group is causing undue delay, that group may be put on the clock.
   
   1. On the clock means that a Tournament Official will accompany the group and actively time each player to ensure their play conforms with 802.03, Excessive Time and with 3.02.A-D and will issue warnings and penalty throws accordingly.
   2. The Tournament Official must notify the group that they are on the clock in a manner understandable to all players. 
   3. When a group is no longer causing undue delay, they come off the clock. Off the clock means a Tournament Official is no longer actively timing their play.
   4. When a group comes off the clock, the Tournament Official must notify the group that they are off the clock in a manner understandable to all players.
   5. A group that is repeatedly put on the clock may receive penalties as described in 3.02.C. and 802.03, Excessive Time.

1. All players must adhere to a professional standard of sporting ethics, courtesy, and integrity while participating in a PDGA-sanctioned event and when commenting to the media. Conduct that violates this standard is subject to courtesy violations called by players (see 812, Courtesy), penalties issued by the Tournament Director, and any further disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the PDGA.
2. If a player violates the above standard, the Tournament Director may opt, in their sole discretion, to issue a tournament warning for a first offense (except as specified in 3.03.C). A tournament warning is a type of warning whose effects persist through all rounds and sudden-death play. Otherwise, the Tournament Director will immediately disqualify the player. Actions that violate this standard include, but are not limited to:
   
   1. Repeated and overt use of abusive or profane language, including any remarks or comments targeted at a player or group that are inconsistent with the PDGA's non-discrimination principles as outlined in Section II.D of the PDGA Bylaws..
   2. Throwing items in anger (other than discs in play).
   3. Overt rudeness or threatening behavior to anyone present.
   4. Willful and overt destruction, abuse or vandalism of property, including animal and plant life (see 803.03, Damaging the Course).
   5. Excessive use of alcohol or public intoxication at the tournament site.
   6. Overt failure or refusal to enforce the rules of disc golf during competition (see 801.02.B, Enforcement).
   7. Obstruction of, or failure or refusal to cooperate with, any investigation by an official into the player’s conduct or the conduct of another player.
   8. Deliberately seeking to manipulate one’s player rating through intentional misplay or withdrawal (see 811.E, Misplay).
   9. Activities not listed here or in 3.03.C which are in violation of federal, state or local laws or ordinances, park regulations or disc golf course rules.
3. The following actions also violate the above standard. Players who commit one or more of these violations will not receive a warning, and will be immediately disqualified by the Tournament Director:
   
   1. Cheating: a willful attempt to circumvent the rules of play.
   2. Physical attacks upon anyone present.
   3. Public display or use of illegal or prohibited substances in violation of any applicable law (national/federal, state/provincial, local/city/county, et al) from the two-minute signal to the time the player's scorecard is submitted.
   4. Public display or use of alcohol at PDGA events sanctioned at C-Tier or higher, or of cannabis (other than as permitted by the CBD Product Use Policy) at PDGA events sanctioned at any Tier level, even where otherwise lawful or permitted, from the two-minute signal to the time the player's scorecard is submitted. This rule does not apply to Leagues, where, if local law and event venue rules permit it, players of legal age to do so may consume alcohol during the round (see 1.14.C.4).
4. Players are required to report any player misconduct to a Tournament Official when available or to the Tournament Director directly at the completion of the round.
5. Tournament Directors are required to report any disqualifications and player misconduct to the PDGA as quickly as possible.
6. Disqualified players shall forfeit any prize money or merchandise and shall not receive a refund of entry fees.
7. The public display or use of tobacco products by event staff, players, and by extension their caddies, is prohibited at all times at A-Tier events and at PDGA events of any Tier that solely offer Junior divisions. For policies at PDGA Major and Elite Series events, see 4.04.A.
   
   1. This prohibition includes all smoking and chewing tobacco products, as well as electronic and vapor cigarettes, whether tobacco-based or not. This prohibition does not apply to smoking cessation products that do not produce vapor, such as nicotine gum, nicotine patches, or nicotine lozenges.
   2. For players and their caddies, any violation of these prohibitions will be treated as a courtesy violation, and violators will be asked to put away the product until after the round has concluded. Subsequent violations are courtesy violations which receive penalty throws (see 812.C, Courtesy). Repeated violations may result in disqualification (see 3.03.B).
   3. At all non-junior events to which this policy applies, the Tournament Director may opt to provide designated smoking areas out of the public eye for players, caddies, and event staff to use during the round, and all rules concerning the pace of play still apply (see 3.02).
   4. At PDGA events of any Tier that solely offer Junior divisions, including the PDGA Junior World Championships, no designated smoking areas will be provided.
   5. In cases where local laws and policies conflict with this policy, please contact the PDGA Director of Event Support for guidance.

1. All violations of the Dress Code Policy shall be considered a courtesy violation (see 812, Courtesy).
2. All competitors and staff are required to wear an upper garment and lower outer garment, such as a shirt and pants.
3. All competitors and staff are required to wear shoes or other footwear with soles.
4. The PDGA recommends that the dress code in 4.04 be enforced at A-Tier and lower Tier events, but that decision lies solely with the Tournament Director.

1. Players are required to walk during their tournament rounds at all PDGA events unless alternate transportation such as golf carts are provided within the regular event entry fee (not as an opt-in) to all players within a single competitive division.
2. A caddie is a person who carries a player's equipment or provides other assistance during the round.
   
   1. Players may designate one caddie at a time during their round.
   2. A person may only caddie for one player at a time (except as allowed by 1.13.B).
   3. A caddie must be at least 13 years of age and must comply with the same Official Rules of Disc Golf and Competition Manual their player must follow, including the dress code, although a caddie need not be a PDGA member nor Certified Official.
3. Players choosing to use a caddie will be solely responsible for their caddie’s conduct from the two-minute signal until the player’s scorecard is submitted. Any penalties for misconduct by a caddie (as defined in this section and in 3.03) will be applied to both player and caddie.
4. Caddies are not part of the player group for the purposes of making group calls or rulings.
5. Players must instruct their caddies to maintain a reasonable distance and not to interfere with a competitor’s throw.
6. For those players wishing to use a carrying device, approved carrying devices include disc golf bags, foldable chairs and push cart companions. No animals, motor-driven or bicycle-type devices shall be allowed as a carrying device at any PDGA events.
7. No one may act as a caddie if they are currently under suspension (as listed in the Current Disciplinary Actions) or have been disqualified from:
   
   1. the event itself;
   2. a separate day of the event as defined in 2.01.E; or
   3. a concurrent event of a different Tier (such as an A-Tier held concurrently with an Elite Series event);

1. All participants agree that the PDGA and its agents may publish photographs and images of their participation at PDGA-sanctioned events.
2. Players should not engage in media interviews until after they have officially submitted their scorecard to tournament officials.
3. The most current information about media at PDGA events can be found in the PDGA Media Policy document.

1. The Tournament Director may refuse to allow any vendor access to the tournament venue and its environs at their sole discretion.
2. If applicable, sponsors/vendors are responsible for obtaining the required permits from the appropriate agencies/jurisdictions and must make permits available to the Tournament Director upon request.
3. Failure to comply with this policy by a vendor may result in further disciplinary actions by the PDGA.
4. See 6.03.H for policies outside the United States and Canada.

The PDGA recognizes that the strength of the organization and the sustainability of tournament disc golf are reliant on the partnership between the PDGA and the Tournament Director. In order to help the Tournament Director to better perform their job, the PDGA has endowed them with certain rights. The Tournament Director also has responsibilities to the PDGA and its players, including but not limited to the following:

1. Any qualified, current PDGA member age 18 or over who is interested in running a PDGA-sanctioned event may be required to take and pass an online tournament procedures assessment test before being able to direct that event. That test will be based upon the Official Rules of Disc Golf and the Competition Manual. PDGA members under the age of 18 may not be Tournament Directors.
2. Tournament Directors agree to follow PDGA sanctioning requirements for the event’s designated Tier level.
3. Tournament Directors may be required to sign a statement acknowledging that they have read the Official Rules of Disc Golf and the Competition Manual, and agree to abide by and enforce their contents before being able to direct any PDGA-sanctioned event.
4. Tournament Directors must disclose the financial information for their tournaments as listed in the PDGA Sanctioning Agreement or event agreement. However, beyond the PDGA-required disclosures, any additional release of tournament-related financial information is solely at the discretion of the Tournament Director.
5. Per Section II.D of the PDGA Bylaws, Tournament Directors may not refuse service to anyone based on their race, age, religion, sexual orientation, color, national origin, disability, gender, gender identity, or ancestry
6. Tournament Directors must abide by active PDGA player disciplinary actions.
7. Any issues that may arise during a tournament, whether or not covered in any existing PDGA document, including allegations of abuse of responsibilities by a Tournament Director, may be brought to the attention of the PDGA through the PDGA Disciplinary Process.
8. Where an event does not meet the criteria or a Tournament Director does not meet the responsibilities set forth in the PDGA Sanctioning Agreement, PDGA Privacy Policy, and Competition Manual, the PDGA reserves the right to demote the event in the future, or to suspend the Tournament Director from running future events. See 6.03.I for policies outside the United States and Canada.
9. Failure to properly report the results of an event or to meet the financial obligations of the event may lead to further disciplinary action including the suspension of the Tournament Director’s PDGA membership and privileges.

1. All elements of the Official Rules of Disc Golf and sections 1-3 and 5 of the Competition Manual for Disc Golf Events are in effect for all PDGA Majors and Elite Series events unless otherwise specified in this section. Events of other Tiers that are run as part of a larger Elite Series tour, such as DGPT Silver events, are considered to be Elite Series events for purposes of this section.
2. Nothing in this section shall apply to any other event, except as otherwise specified in the Official Rules of Disc Golf or sections 1-3 and 5 of the Competition Manual for Disc Golf Events.
3. Provisions of this section may modify or extend penalties detailed in the Official Rules of Disc Golf or the Competition Manual for Disc Golf Events beyond the original applicability of those penalties.

1. MPO players must have a minimum rating of 935 and FPO players must have a minimum rating of 825 at the time of registration to compete in a PDGA Major or Elite Series event.
2. There is no minimum rating for eligibility to compete at PDGA Majors or Elite Series events for any other division.
3. All players must be Certified Rules Officials with a certification expiring after the conclusion of the event in order to register for and compete in any PDGA Major or Elite Series event.

1. A caddie is someone who walks with a player during play.
2. The playing group consists only of:
   
   1. the players themselves; and
   2. each player's individual caddie;
3. The playing group may be accompanied by:
   
   1. chaperones, where required (see 1.13.B); and
   2. any active tournament staff as determined by the TD; and
   3. any credentialed media.
4. No other people may be with the playing group. All others (including players who have already finished their round) are considered spectators and must remain in designated spectator areas away from the playing group.
5. Caddies at events must always display a caddie credential if on the course during play or in a player-only area. If no credential is provided or available, the player must identify their caddie to their group prior to the start of play.
6. A caddie cannot be placed or directed to act as a visual reference or guide and is considered a directional aid in any such instance (see 813.02 B, Illegal Device).
7. All other violations of this section are courtesy violations (see 812.C, Courtesy) applicable to the player the caddie is accompanying.

1. The prohibition on the public display or use of tobacco products in 3.03.G applies to all PDGA Major and Elite Series events in the following ways:
   
   1. At the PDGA Junior World Championships, the public display or use of tobacco products by event staff, players, and by extension their caddies, is prohibited at all times.
   2. At all other PDGA Majors and Elite Series events, the public display or use of tobacco products by players, and by extension their caddies, is prohibited from the two-minute signal until the official scorecard is submitted.
   3. The public display or use of tobacco products by event staff is limited to designated smoking areas.
2. All players and tournament staff shall dress appropriately and to maintain a clean and well-groomed appearance at all event sites and associated functions.
   
   1. All players shall wear an upper garment covering their upper chest area and lower torso. A well-tailored shirt with a collar is acceptable, with or without sleeves. A well-tailored one-piece tennis dress or upper garment with minimum one-inch-wide shoulder straps is also acceptable. Tank tops are not allowed for any competitor.
   2. T-shirts are not allowed as a player’s outermost upper garment, except for competitors in Junior and Amateur divisions during preliminary rounds. Juniors and Amateurs shall not wear tee shirts during semifinal or final rounds. Crew neck or v-neck shirts made of high-performance or high-tech materials (including cotton/poly blends with wicking features) are allowed.
   3. Shirts that hang down lower than the bottom hemline on the player’s lower garment shall be tucked in.
   4. No ripped shirts, shorts, or pants are allowed on the course. This includes unhemmed garments, or garments with torn or cut “vents” at the shirt collar. Clothing that becomes stained or damaged during a round is acceptable for the remainder of that round. For the purposes of this provision, semifinals and finals are counted together as a single round, as are final rounds and playoffs for first place.
   5. No offensive, profane, or obscene slogans or logos are allowed on any clothing. Players in Junior divisions, as well as their caddie and required chaperone, where applicable (see 1.13), may not wear slogans or logos referring to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.
3. This dress code will be in effect from start to finish at each event, including all tournament rounds.
4. Players who have not made a cut and who are on site at the tournament are considered spectators and are not required to conform to this dress code.
5. All violations of this section by any player or caddie shall be considered a courtesy violation (see 812, Courtesy).
6. All players are requested to be available to any and all media while on site except during or within 30 minutes of the start of a competitive round.

1. Pre-registration is required for PDGA Majors and Elite Series events.
2. Pre-tournament check-in is required for all players at Majors and Elite Series events.
   
   1. Pre-tournament check-in includes completing all required and applicable documents and processes, such as waivers, tax documents, or the PDGA Identity Verification program.
   2. The restriction in 1.04.B does not apply to Majors and Elite Series events.
   3. Any player who does not check in by the time specified by the Tournament Director shall begin the first round with two penalty throws.
3. At events using a staggered start with scheduled tee times, players must also check in with the starter no less than 5 minutes prior to their tee time and be present at the starting hole for the 5 minutes preceding their tee time each day.
   
   1. Players who do not check in with the starter by this time or who are not present at the starting hole for the 5 minutes preceding their tee time receive two penalty throws added to their starting hole.
   2. If a player is later deemed to be absent for the first hole under 811.F.5, Misplay, then the penalty in 4.05.C.1 does not apply. The player only receives the penalty for being absent.

1. If the PDGA Digital Scorecard is the official scoring method of a PDGA Major or Elite Series event:
   
   1. In MPO and FPO divisions, at least one player in the group must use the Digital Scorecard for scoring; and
   2. All players must use either the Digital Scorecard or a paper scorecard for scoring.
2. In staggered start play with scheduled tee times, all members of the group must proceed to the scoring area immediately after completion of the round. Completion of the round is when all players in a group have holed out on the final hole of the round.

1. Awarding of Prizes at Majors
   
   1. Players competing in Professional divisions at PDGA Majors are required to register with the PDGA's third-party payment processor in order to receive cash prizes.
   2. Players who register with the payment processor prior to the start of competition will have payment initiated within the timeframe specified by 1.10.G.3. The player's chosen method of payment may affect when players receive payment (for example, ACH transfers may take a few business days).
   3. Players who fail to register with the payment processor prior to the start of competition will have their payments delayed accordingly, depending on when they complete registration with the payment processor.
   4. Registration with PDGA's third-party payment processor only covers payments for PDGA Majors. It does not cover payments for Elite Series events or A-Tier and below.

1. The purpose of the Tour Standards is to:
   1. Provide a set of event standards so that Tournament Directors are familiar with expectations and players can expect consistency at each tier level;
   2. Ensure PDGA events are classified into their appropriate tiers; and
   3. Increase the professionalism and marketability of PDGA-sanctioned events.
2. The Tour Standards apply to every PDGA-sanctioned event except as outlined in Section 6, International Variances and Exceptions.

1. Split-day Events.
   1. Split-day events are events where separate divisions compete on separate days on a given weekend (e.g., Amateurs on Saturday and Professionals on Sunday).
   2. Because this format allows a single player to play multiple days in different divisions under Competition Manual 2.02.E (e.g., a player plays in MA1 on Saturday and in MPO on Sunday), each day of this event must be treated as a separate event for the purposes of reporting and proper ratings calculations.
   3. Tournament Directors who wish to use this format submit only a single sanctioning form and sanctioning fee.
      
      1. They must check the appropriate box and make a note on the sanctioning form specifying which divisions play on which days.
      2. The PDGA Office will then create separate calendar entries for the event and Tournament Directors will receive a sanctioning confirmation email for each day.
      3. The same password will give access to each event in Tournament Manager.
   4. Tournament Directors must treat each day as a separate event for the purposes of pre-registration or unofficial results, and they must submit a separate Event Report for each day.
   5. When a player competes in multiple divisions on separate days in the same event, the Tournament Director must remit one per-player fee per division in which the player competes. Tournament Manager calculates this automatically.
   6. Players who are not current PDGA members and who are competing on multiple days must pay the temporary membership fee for each day.
2. To reclassify from Professional to Amateur, PDGA members must meet the following criteria:
   1. The player has not accepted cash while competing in a Professional division within the past year.
   2. The player has not previously been reclassified from Pro to Amateur within the past five years.
   3. The player's rating is under the following thresholds based on their current PDGA age:
      
      1. Players eligible only for mixed divisions
         
         1. less than 970 for players under 40 years of age on their birthday in the current calendar year
         2. less than 920 for players age 40-49 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         3. less than 910 for players age 50-54 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         4. less than 905 for players age 55-59 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         5. less than 900 for players age 60-64 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         6. less than 885 for players age 65-69 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         7. less than 860 for players age 70-74 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         8. less than 840 for players age 75 or older on their birthday in the current calendar year
      2. Players eligible for both mixed and gender-based divisions
         
         1. less than 875 for players under 40 years of age on their birthday in the current calendar year
         2. less than 820 for players age 40-49 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         3. less than 805 for players age 50-54 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         4. less than 795 for players age 55-59 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         5. less than 790 for players age 60-64 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         6. less than 785 for players age 65-69 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         7. less than 740 for players age 70-74 on their birthday in the current calendar year
         8. less than 720 for players age 75 or older on their birthday in the current calendar year
   4. A player who meets requirements #1 and #2 above, but whose player rating does not meet requirement #3 above, may request a medical exemption reclassification, but only due to a permanent injury or condition that will prevent them from ever playing at their former level. For more information about medical reclassification, please contact the Event Support Team.
3. If mixed divisions are offered at an event, Tournament Directors must offer the corresponding women's division (e.g., if MA40 is offered, FA40 must also be offered). Split-day events count as a single event for the purposes of this provision.  After one week of early registration as detailed in Competition Manual 1.02.C.2.c or one week of open registration, the TD may cease offering the division as long as Competition Manual 2.02.L permits it.

1. As measured from the morning of the first day of competition, courses are required to be set up and in their first-round tournament format for all official practice days:
   1. Four (4) practice days prior to any World Championship.
   2. Three (3) days prior to any other PDGA Major or Elite Series event.
   3. One (1) day prior to an A-Tier. Where A-Tiers have temporary holes where targets are unavailable prior to the event, the teeing areas and target locations for those holes must be clearly marked on the official practice day.
   4. No requirements for B-Tiers and below.
2. Tournament format means the course(s) must have:
   1. All out-of-bounds (806.02), hazard areas (806.05), mandatories (804.01), and drop zones properly marked;
   2. Event tee signs in place; and
   3. All in-play branding assets in place.
3. An official practice day is a day where the course(s) are set in the tournament format and available for practice for a minimum of six (6) daylight hours.
4. Players in the event must be informed of specific practice availability hours for all official practice days before the start of official practice days.
5. Where an event has required official practice days, no sanctioned events or other tournament-related events that prevent or impede these practice hours may take place on the course(s) during the day immediately prior to the beginning of competition.
6. Rule waivers. The following situations require a waiver from the Director of Event Support. Failure to obtain a waiver may result in the hole being thrown out when computing scores and/or ratings. See the Use of Non-Standard Rules at PDGA-Sanctioned Events document for more details.
   1. Any non-standard rule;
   2. A hole or course rules that limits the player’s normal OB options, such as an island green;
   3. A mandatory where the drop zone is more than 10 meters away from the nearest point on the restricted plane.
7. At PDGA-sanctioned events, bathrooms are required.
   1. The event must have either a permanent bathroom or temporary bathroom on site at each venue that is:
      
      1. accessible to all players;
      2. stocked and serviced and in working order;
      3. available no less than 60 minutes prior to the first tee time of the day; and
      4. available for the duration of the event schedule and all event-related activities at the course(s) being played; and
      5. a reasonable walking distance from the course(s) being played.
   2. Tournament Directors who must rent facilities to comply with this are allowed to use the bathroom pass-through fee (see 5.04.A.3.d) to offset costs.
   3. This provision does not apply to Leagues.
   4. This provision does not apply to flex starts (see 1.05.B.3). The TD must notify players in pre-registration materials if no bathroom will be available at a flex start.
   5. Please consult the PDGA Water and Bathroom Recommendations for best practices regarding bathrooms.
8. It is the event’s responsibility to provide, at minimum, a specific course rules sheet to every player so they can play the course correctly and as intended.
9. Tournament Directors should be familiar with the Mid-Event Suspension and Cancellation Policy and create a plan for any foreseeable complications.

1. Definitions.
   1. Gross entry is the entry fee paid by the player, not including transaction fees or add-ons such as disc purchases or sponsorships.
   2. Net entry is gross entry minus pass-through fees.
   3. Pass-through fees must be published in pre-registration materials (types and amounts) and are limited to:
      
      1. PDGA per-player fees according to the Tier;
      2. Greens fees, meaning the fees required to secure the course(s) and permit play;
      3. Series fees, meaning a fee paid by an event that is part of a points series under Competition Manual 2.03.B and that is used for series-end prizes or payouts;
      4. Bathroom fees, meaning the prorated per-player cost of toilet rental; and
      5. TD fees, meaning a per-player amount not to exceed the PDGA per-player fee for that Tier.
   4. Added cash refers only to the cash added to the Pro purse above the regular required percentage of net entry fees.
      
      1. The Required Minimum Added Cash to the Pro Purse must be spread across all Pro divisions based on the percentage of entry fees brought into the event by each division as per the Tournament Manager payout screens.
      2. The Pro Added Cash distribution is automatically calculated by the Tournament Manager application once Tournament Directors input the Added Cash for their event into the Finance section.
   5. Added merch refers only to the additional prize value added to the Am payouts above the regular required percentage of net entry fees.
2. Depth of payouts in North America.
   1. In each professional division, at least 40% of competitors must be paid out (subject to Competition Manual 1.10.A and E).
   2. Unless the event is a True Amateur Event (see Competition Manual 2.06), in each amateur division, at least 45% of competitors must be paid out (subject to Competition Manual 1.10.A and E).
   3. Tournament Directors should use the payout calculation function in Tournament Manager to ensure they meet or exceed these requirements.
3. Player packs and True Amateur Events.
   1. The cost of player pack items is not deducted from gross entry.
   2. The retail value of player pack items counts as prize value for the purpose of calculating prize payout for Amateur divisions.
   3. If Professional divisions receive a player pack, it is considered added value but does not count toward added cash or payout.
   4. Refer to the PDGA Allowable Items Toward Player Pack Value document to ensure that your items are valid player pack inclusions.

1. Tier Standards Chart. See 6.03.K.1 for events outside the United States and Canada.
   

   	Worlds	Other Majors	Elite Series	A-Tier	B Tier	C Tier	League
   Sanctioning Fee	Waived	Waived	Waived	$100	$75	$50	$25
   Sanctioning agreement submission deadline	Not applicable	Not applicable	Not applicable	December 1st (of prior year)	45 days prior	Recommended 30 days prior	Recommended 30 days prior
   Per player fee (post-event)	$0	$0	$5	$5	$4	$3	$0.50 per player for each round they played during the league
   Membership requirements	Current PDGA Member; Certified Official; See also 4.02 Eligibility	Current PDGA Member; Certified Official; See also 4.02 Eligibility	Current PDGA Member; Certified Official; See also 4.02 Eligibility	Current PDGA Membership	Current PDGA Membership	$15 Temporary Membership Fee (except Junior Divisions)	No Membership Requirement
   Length of event	4 to 5 days	4 to 5 days	3 to 4 days	2 or 3 days	1 or 2 days	1 or 2 days	6-10 consecutive weeks played the same day each week
   Minimum number of holes	72	72	54	54	36	18 (36 Preferred)	18 holes per week on the same layout for all players
   Course must be in tournament format for practice	4 Days Prior	3 Days Prior	3 Days Prior	1 Day Prior	No Requirement	No Requirement	No Requirement
   Start Type	Staggered or shotgun start	Staggered or shotgun start	Staggered or shotgun start	Staggered or shotgun start	Staggered or shotgun start	Staggered or shotgun start; flex start is available for one-round events only.	Staggered, shotgun, or flex start
   Certificate of Insurance	Complimentary	Complimentary	Complimentary	Complimentary	$50 (non-refundable)	$50 (non-refundable)	$50 (non-refundable)
   Required Minimum Added Cash to Pro Purse	25% of Net	25% of Net	$30,000	$3,000	$750	None	None
   Pro Purse % (Cash Purse Only) of Net Entry	125+% of Net	125+% of Net	100+% of Net Entry Fees	100+% of Net Entry Fees	100+% of Net Entry Fees	85+% of Net Entry Fees	Variable - pre-set by League
   Amateur Payout % (Prize Purse + Player Packs)	True Amateur	True Amateur	Not applicable	110+% of Net Entry Fees	100+% of Net Entry Fees	85+% of Net Entry Fees	Variable - pre-set by League
   Minimum retail value of Amateur Player Pack	125+% of Net	125+% of Net	Not applicable	$25 retail value to each player in Amateur divisions	$10 retail value to each player in Amateur divisions	None Required	None Required
   Upload Scores via PDGA Tournament Manager (TM)	After each round	After each round	After each round	After each round	After each day	Within 24 hours of completion of the event	Within 24 hours of completion of each round
   Must submit TD Report online via PDGA TM	24 hours from end	24 hours from end	24 hours from end	48 hours from end	72 hours from end	1 week from end	1 week from end
   Payment of event post-event fees within	Not applicable	Not applicable	30 days from end	30 days from end	30 days from end	30 days from end	30 days from end
   Certified official requirements	TD & ATD of record may not play. 1 non- playing official on site per course.	TD & ATD of record may not play. 1 non- playing official on site per course.	TD & ATD of record may not play. 1 non-playing official on site per course.	TD & ATD of record may not play. 1 non-playing official on site per course.	Must have either non-playing TD or ATD of record. One official on site per course.	One official on site per course.	One official per week.

2. Target Requirements
   1. PDGA-approved Championship targets of the same design and manufacturer are recommended for all events and are required for A-tier, Elite Series, and Major events.
   2. PDGA-approved Standard targets may be used at B-tier, C-tier, and League events.
   3. PDGA-approved Basic targets and non-approved basket targets may be used for C-tier and League events.
   4. PDGA-approved Object targets are allowed under XB, XC, and League events, but this must be specified when submitting the PDGA Sanctioning Agreement.
   5. Events that do not meet the target requirements due to emergency, such as a basket destroyed by a falling tree with no suitable replacement available, may request a waiver by contacting the PDGA Director of Event Support at eventsupport@pdga.com.
   6. Please see the PDGA Technical Standards for target classifications and further information.
3. Required Minimum Distances Between PDGA Events. See 6.03.K.2 for events outside the United States and Canada.
   1. Minimum distances are required between sanctioned tour events in order to avoid a scheduling conflict.
   2. The PDGA gives priority of dates to Majors, Elite Series, and A-Tiers, and handles the scheduling of these events directly.
   3. State Coordinators are responsible for the scheduling of B and C Tier events and should give preference to reliable events with a successful history, and then to smaller or new events where there is no scheduling conflict.

   Minimum Distance in Miles Between PDGA Events

   	Major	Elite	A	B	C	League
   Major	n/a	n/a	750	200	150	0
   Elite	n/a	n/a	500	175	100	0
   A	750	500	200	100	50	0
   B	200	175	100	50	25	0
   C	150	100	50	25	0	0

1. Did Not Play.
   1. Any registered player who did not compete in an event must be removed from the event entirely prior to the calculation of payouts.
   2. If the TD wishes for any portion of the player’s net entry fee to be added to payout for their division, they should add it to the Added Cash for that division.
   3. Players who do not compete in an event must not receive a 999 Did Not Finish code.
2. Did Not Finish.
   1. Any registered player must be listed as “Did Not Finish” (DNF) with a 999 code if they:
      
      1. do not finish an event for any reason other than ratings manipulation; and
      2. notify the TD that they will not finish the event either before leaving the venue or before the start of the next round, whichever is earlier;
   2. The 999 code carries no penalty, but the player will not receive PDGA Points for competing in the event.
3. Ratings manipulation and leaving without notifying the TD.
   1. TDs should use the 888 code to report ratings manipulation and players who leave during the event without notifying the TD.
   2. Ratings manipulation and leaving without notifying the TD are disciplinary matters, and punished as a Class D4 Offense under the Disciplinary Policy & Process and according to the following rubric:
      
      1. First instance: Warning letter from the Disciplinary Committee.
      2. Second instance: 6 months of probation.
      3. Third instance: 1 month of suspension.
      4. Fourth instance: 3 months of suspension.
      5. Fifth instance: 6 months of suspension.
      6. Sixth instance or more: 12 months of suspension.
4. Disqualification.
   1. If a player is disqualified (DQed) from an event, the TD must:
      
      1. Provide details of the circumstances leading to the DQ in the TD Notes field on the Event Report; and
      2. Remove the player from the event’s player listing:
         
         1. after the event payout is completed (their player count and entry fees remain in their division); but
         2. prior to submitting the official report.
   2. DQed players do not get the benefit of credit for the event or ratings for the event rounds that they completed prior to their DQ.

1. It is the responsibility of the Tournament Director of record to submit all results by submitting a completed report via the PDGA Tournament Manager application and paying all fees associated with each event.
2. TDs with reports or event fees over 90 days late will be placed on suspension and be unable to play in or direct a sanctioned event until one month after their reports are submitted and all fees are paid in full.
3. Tournament Directors are encouraged to award PDGA memberships as prizes in the Amateur and Junior divisions for C-Tier events.
4. Events which fail to meet Tier requirements may be demoted in the following year.
5. Tournament Directors should set par according to the PDGA Par Guidelines.

1. In addition to the requirements outlined in the PDGA Tier Standards Chart, Majors and Elite Series events have some additional requirements and regulations.
2. Earthen tee pads are not allowed for use at any PDGA Major or Elite Series event.
3. Majors receive a complimentary Certificate of Insurance.
4. Competitors in Majors and Elite Series events must be current PDGA members and current Certified Officials at the time of both registration and competition.
5. Majors have a minimum payout of 125% in all divisions. Amateur divisions at Majors all use the True Amateur format (see Competition Manual 2.05).
6. National titles for gender-based divisions are conferred at the United States Women’s Disc Golf Championships. Winners in gender-based divisions at the United States Masters Disc Golf Championships have won a Major title, but not a national title.
7. Ancillary events at the World Championships do not confer World Champion titles.
8. At Majors, divisions require a minimum of 3 players to be contested. The provisions of 2.02.L.2 do not apply to Majors.

1. In addition to the requirements outlined in the PDGA Tier Standards Chart, A-Tier events have some additional requirements and regulations.
2. Required divisions. Tournament Directors at A-Tiers must offer, at a minimum, both the top mixed and women’s divisions based on the class and/or age of the fields the event is intended for, unless the event is only using Ratings-Based Divisions. For example:
   1. Pro-only A-Tiers must offer MPO and FPO.
   2. Am-only A-Tiers must offer MA1 and FA1.
   3. Pro-Am A-Tiers must offer MPO, FPO, MA1, and FA1.
   4. Pro-only Masters-only A-Tiers must offer MP40 and FP40.
   5. Am-only Masters-only A-Tiers must offer MA40 and FA40.
   6. Masters-only Pro-Am A-Tiers must offer MP40, FP40, MA40, and FA40.
   7. Pro-only gender-based A-Tiers must offer FPO.
   8. Am-only gender-based A-Tiers must offer FA1.
   9. Pro-Am gender-based A-Tiers must offer FPO and FA1.
   10. Junior-only A-Tiers must offer MJ18 and FJ18.
3. Warm-Up Areas: All A-Tier events must have a designated warm-up area readily available to all players. If sufficient throwing space is not available, the event must provide one or more practice nets. The event must also provide one or more practice targets.

1. The added “X” designation means that there is some material variance from the Official Rules of Disc Golf and/or Competition Manual that goes beyond a basic waiver. It applies to alternative competitive formats, non- standard rules that render rounds unratable, events with restricted eligibility requirements, and events with modified payout requirements. Only X-designated events that use alternative formats and/or unratable non-standard rules do not receive ratings.
   1. Alternative Competitive Formats (not ratable). These are events where the format of play is not standard singles medal play, such as doubles, team events, non-basket courses, winner-take-all, skins, match play, vintage, and overall events.
   2. Unratable Non-Standard Rules (not ratable). These are events with non-standard rules that go beyond a simple waiver, such as throw-and-distance penalties or mulligans. Any non-standard rules must be pre-approved by the PDGA Director of Event Support who will work with the Tournament Director to make sure the non-standard rules can be rated if at all possible. See the Use of Non-Standard Rules at PDGA-Sanctioned Events document for more details.
   3. Restricted Eligibility Requirements (ratable). These are events where eligibility is limited based on citizenship and/or residence (example: a state decides to have their State Championships open to only players from that state) or PDGA Club member status. These events are ratable so as long as they do not use alternative competitive formats and do not have non-ratable non-standard rules.
   4. Modified Payout Requirements (ratable). These are events run under the Competition Endowment Program to raise funds for a designated 501(c)(3) charity or scholastic disc golf program or team. All CEP events must be approved by the PDGA Event Support Team. Net entry fees are reduced by the amount donated per-player to the charity when calculating payout. These events are ratable so as long as they do not use alternative competitive formats and do not have non-ratable non-standard rules.
2. X-designated events are sanctioned as XM, XA, XB, and XC in accordance with tier guidelines and player points are awarded accordingly.
3. All X-designated event formats must be pre-approved by the PDGA Event Support Team.
4. Formats at B-tier and above are limited to Singles, Doubles, Team, and Match Play. Other event formats will be considered by the PDGA Event Support Team upon request.
5. Regardless of the format used, results must be easily convertible to PDGA divisions for player point calculation and data entry. For this reason, divisional doubles (pro, advanced, etc.) and mixed doubles (male/female) cannot be combined within the same event and will require separate TD Reports.

1. This document applies to PDGA Tour events outside the United States and Canada. It outlines variances from and exceptions to the Official Rules of Disc Golf and the Competition Manual for Disc Golf Events for international play.
2. The Official Rules of Disc Golf and the Competition Manual for Disc Golf Events apply to events outside the United States and Canada other than as specified in this section.
3. These variances and exceptions do not apply to Majors or Elite Series events.
4. For more details about how international play varies from the United States and Canada, consult the International Program Guide.

1. 808 Scoring
   1. Outside the United States and Canada, the requirement in 808.A that every player keep score is highly recommended, but not required.
   2. Instead, at least two players are required to keep independent scorecards. The rest of 808 applies as written.

1. 1.01 Player Eligibility
   1. 1.01.B.1. Outside the United States and Canada, players who are not current members may play in B-Tier events.
   2. 1.01.B.2. Events outside the United States and Canada do not assess a temporary membership fee.
2. 1.02 Tournament Registration
   1. 1.02.C.3.d. Outside the United States and Canada, PDGA Club membership means local club affiliation or membership in the National Association.
3. 1.03 Withdrawals and Refunds
   1. Outside the United States and Canada, countries and national associations may have their own withdrawal and refund system, which they are solely responible for.
4. 1.05 Practice Rounds, Beginning Play, Late Arrivals
   1. 1.05.G. Outside the United States and Canada, the Tournament Director only needs to provide two scorecards (see 6.02.A.2).
5. 1.06 Grouping and Sectioning. Events outside the United States and Canada must observe the regulations in this subsection, with the following exceptions:
   1. At B-Tier and C-Tier events with at least two rounds, the Tournament Director may randomly group players for round 1 without regard to division.
   2. In countries where it is the custom to group players by score for round 2, without regard to division:
      
      1. At B-Tier and C-Tier events with at least three rounds, players may be grouped by score for round 2, without regard to division; and
      2. During all rounds after round 2, players must be grouped by both score and division per 1.06.C and D.
6. 1.08 Reduction of Field Size (Cuts)
   1. 1.08.E. Outside the United States and Canada, countries may choose to set the cut line according to their local standards.
7. 1.13 Youth Safety
   1. Countries outside the United States and Canada determine their own safety protocols regarding youth participation, for which they are solely responsible.
   2. It is highly recommended that countries outside the United States and Canada adhere to the provisions of 1.13 as closely as is possible.
8. 3.07 Tour Vendor Policies
   1. Outside the United States and Canada, the national associations determine the tour vendor policies for events in their country.
9. 3.08 Tournament Director Rights & Responsibilities
   1. 3.08.H. Outside the United States and Canada, the national association determines whether an event's Tier status should be demoted.
10. 5.03 Preparing the Course
    1. 5.03.G. Outside the United States and Canada, bathrooms are required at A-Tier and B-Tier events, and highly recommended for C-Tier events.
11. 5.05 Tier and Target Requirements
    1. 5.05.A. Outside the United States and Canada, this table replaces the Tier Standards Table.
       

       International Tier Standards	A-Tier	B Tier	C Tier
       Sanctioning Fee	$100	$75	$50
       Sanctioning agreement submission deadline	90 days prior	30 days prior	14 days prior
       Membership requirements	Current PDGA membership	No membership requirement	No membership requirement
       Length of event	2 to 4 days	1 to 3 days	1 to 3 days
       Minimum number of holes	54	36	18 (36 preferred)
       Course must be in tournament format for practice	3 days prior	1 day prior	No Requirement
       Start Type	Staggered or shotgun start	Staggered or shotgun start	Staggered or shotgun start; flex start is available for one-round events only.
       Minimum Purse	US$/A$/$NZ/€5000 or equivalent	US$/A$/$NZ/€1500 or equivalent	No requirement; US$/A$/$NZ/€250 recommended
       Pro Purse % (Cash Purse Only) of Net Entry	75+% of Net Entry Fees	50+% of Net Entry Fees	0+% of Net Entry Fees, 33%+ recommended
       Amateur Payout % (Prize Purse + Player Packs)	75+% of Net Entry Fees	50+% of Net Entry Fees	0+% of Net Entry Fees, 33%+ recommended
       Trophies/Medals	All division winners	All division winners	All division winners recommended
       Upload Scores via PDGA Tournament Manager (TM)	After each round	After each day	Within 24 hours of completion of the event
       Must submit TD Report online via PDGA TM	48 hours from end	72 hours from end	1 week from end
       Certified official requirements	TD cannot play event. 1 official on site per course.	TD should not play event. 1 official on site per course.	1 official on site per event.

    2. 5.05.C. Outside the United States and Canada, this table of recommended distances between events replaces the table of required distances.
       

       Recommended Minimum Distances in Kilometers between PDGA International Events

       Tier	Major	A	B	C	League
       A	1000	500	250	150	50
       B	500	250	150	100	25
       C	200	150	100	50	0