A golf tee is a small peg that supports the ball for a shot from the teeing area. The best height depends on the club, the clubhead design and the shot you want to play. A consistent setup is more useful than chasing one perfect measurement.
How high should you tee a driver?
A common starting point is to position the ball so roughly half of it sits above the crown of the driver when the club rests behind it. This is a guideline, not a rule: driver shape, ball position and swing can change the ideal height. If possible, use face-impact feedback or a coach to see where contact occurs.
What about fairway woods, hybrids and irons?
Fairway woods and hybrids are usually teed lower than a driver, with the ball only slightly above the ground. For an iron, use a very low tee so the ball is just above the turf. You can also play an iron directly from the ground if you prefer and the shot suits it.
How to tee the ball step by step
- Choose your club and target.
- Place the tee within the teeing area, between the markers and no more than two club-lengths back.
- Set the ball height for that club.
- Aim the clubface, then position your feet and body.
- Check that the area ahead is clear and make a balanced swing.
The ball must be inside the defined teeing area, but your stance may be outside it. You may use a tee or play the ball from the ground. Do not tee outside the area simply to gain a better angle.
Common mistakes
Changing height on every shot makes it harder to compare results. Teeing a driver unusually low or high may also change contact, but there is no universal height for every player. Avoid swinging harder to compensate for a poorly struck ball; reset your setup and focus on centred contact.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a tee for every shot?
A tee may be used when playing from the teeing area. Elsewhere on the course, the ball is normally played as it lies unless a rule permits otherwise.
Does tee height affect distance?
It can affect launch and contact, especially with a driver, but the best height depends on the individual setup and swing.
Next lesson: learn the basics of the golf swing before trying to add power or distance.
