U.S. Masters Swimming Rule Book
Here are the USMS rules for 2024

USMS Code of Regulations and Rules of Competition

This is an online version of the official Rule Book. If there are any discrepancies between this online version and the printed publication, the online version will take precedence. You can download a PDF version of the Full Rule Book and/or the "Mini" Rule Book.

These are the individual sections of the official Rule Book:

• Cover
• Dedication, change summary, table of contents, glossary*
• Part 1: Swimming Rules*
• Part 2: Administrative Regulations of Competition
• Part 3: Open Water and Long Distance Swimming Rules
• Part 4: Participation, Conduct, Hearings and Appeals
• Part 5: United States Masters Swimming, Inc.: Organization and Bylaws
• Part 6: Amendment Procedures
• Appendix A: Records
• Appendix B: Information for Meet Directors and Officials*
• Appendix C: National and International Masters Swimming Schedule
• Appendix D: LMSC Numeric Codes and Abbreviations and Bidding Areas for Long Distance National Championship Meets
• Appendix E: U.S. Masters Swimming Directory*
• Appendix F: U.S. Masters Swimming History
• Index

* Section updated since original printed publication

Ordering a Printed Version

Printed versions of the official publication can be purchased from the National Office for $12 per copy for shipping and handling ($8 per copy for a mini Rule Book). USMS will strive to process and fulfill orders as soon as possible. Orders for the 2025 rule book will be available in the beginning of January.

• LMSC Bulk Orders. If you would like to place a bulk order for your LMSC, please complete the 2025 LMSC order form and send it to Volunteer Services.
• Individual Orders. If you would like to order a printed version of the rule book, please use the following link(s) to order online:

Order 2024 Mini Rule Book(s)

Order 2024 Full Rule Book(s)

Rule Book Amendments

USMS considers changes to the USMS Code of Regulations and Rules of Competition on an annual basis in accordance with article 601.2. For more details, review the process overview of submitting proposed amendments.