Should Beginner Golfers Use a Driver?

Here’s Why It Might Be Better to Wait

Thinking of learning golf? Here’s why beginner golfers might want to leave the driver in the bag—at least at first. Learn what to focus on instead for a better, more enjoyable start.

1. The Driver Is the Hardest Club to Hit

Drivers are made to send the ball far, but that distance comes at a cost. With the longest shaft and lowest loft in your bag, it’s also the most difficult club to hit well.

Beginners often struggle with:

• Low or inconsistent ball flight
• Top shots or slices
• Poor control and contact

Instead of reaching for the driver, start with easier clubs like a hybrid or mid-iron to build confidence.

2. Accuracy Is More Important Than Distance

Golf isn’t just about hitting the ball far. It’s about keeping the ball in play. A well-placed 180-yard shot is far better than a 250-yard drive into the trees.

• Fewer penalty strokes
• Better second-shot opportunities
• More enjoyable rounds

For beginners, consistency beats power every time.

3. The Driver Requires a Different Swing

The swing you use for your driver is a little different than the one for irons. With a driver, the ball is teed up and should be hit on the upswing. Irons, on the other hand, require a downward strike.

Trying to learn both at once adds unnecessary confusion. Focus on mastering one swing style—your iron swing—before introducing the driver.

4. Forgiveness Isn’t Always Enough

Modern drivers include technology that helps with off-center hits, but they can’t fix poor fundamentals. Even with adjustable features and larger sweet spots, beginners will still struggle if they don’t have consistent technique.

The best club in the world can’t replace a solid foundation.

5. Course Management Is Key

Good golf isn’t just about the swing. It’s about making smart decisions. That’s what course management is all about.

For example:

• Use a hybrid or iron off the tee on tight fairways
• Avoid hazards by playing short of them
• Play to your strengths, not distance

Being strategic will improve your scores more than swinging harder.

6. Confidence Is Built Through Success

One good, clean shot can boost your confidence. Many frustrating mis-hits with the driver can ruin your round.

“Golf is hard enough—set yourself up for small wins, not big failures.”

Using clubs that are easier to control helps you build momentum and enjoy the game more.

7. There’s Time to Learn the Driver Later

Just because you shouldn’t use a driver now doesn’t mean you’ll never use it. Once you’ve developed a consistent swing and feel comfortable, start practicing with the driver on the range.

Then, introduce it into your rounds once you’re confident with it.

8. Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Many new golfers expect to hit 250-yard drives or shoot under 90 right away. But the truth is: golf is difficult, and progress takes time.

Focus on the fundamentals:

• Solid contact
• Smart decision-making
• Understanding the rules and etiquette

Realistic goals will keep you motivated and having fun.

9. Shorter Clubs Teach Better Mechanics

Clubs with shorter shafts—like a 7-iron or hybrid—are easier to control and help teach good swing habits.

They encourage better:

• Posture and balance
• Tempo and rhythm
• Consistent ball striking

Master the basics first, then level up.

10. Driving Isn’t the Most Important Part

While big drives are exciting, they don’t matter much if you can’t chip or putt well.

The short game—chipping, pitching, and putting—has the biggest impact on your score. That’s where beginners should spend most of their time practicing.

What Beginners Should Focus on Instead

Beginner golfers should consider leaving the driver out of play—at least at first.

Instead, focus on:

• Using shorter, easier-to-control clubs
• Building a repeatable and balanced swing
• Learning golf strategy and course management
• Improving your short game

Once your fundamentals are solid, the driver will be much easier—and more fun—to use.