Yes, the NEW rule this year IS clear - that a wrongful scorecard is NO LONGER an automatic DQ. Let me repeat, a wrong scorecard is NO LONGER an automatic DQ. When is it NOT a DQ? It is not a DQ in just this kind of situation, when a ruling is not known by the golfer when he signs his card. In other words, for JUST THIS EXACT SITUATION!!!!!!!!!
This scorecard signing is an outdated rule anyway, going back way before golfers were observed during competition.
http://www.usga.org/Rule-Books/Rules-of-Golf/Rule-06/
From USGA.org
6-6. Scoring In Stroke Play
a. Recording Scores
After each hole the marker should check the score with the competitor and record it. On completion of the round the marker must sign the score card and hand it to the competitor. If more than one marker records the scores, each must sign for the part for which he is responsible.
b. Signing and Returning Score Card
After completion of the round, the competitor should check his score for each hole and settle any doubtful points with the Committee. He must ensure that the marker or markers have signed the score card, sign the score card himself and return it to the Committee as soon as possible.
PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 6-6b:
Disqualification.
c. Alteration of Score Card
No alteration may be made on a score card after the competitor has returned it to the Committee.
d. Wrong Score for Hole
The competitor is responsible for the correctness of the score recorded for each hole on his score card. If he returns a score for any hole lower than actually taken, he is disqualified. If he returns a score for any hole higher than actually taken, the score as returned stands.
Note 1: The Committee is responsible for the addition of scores and application of the handicap recorded on the score card – see Rule 33-5.
Note 2: In four-ball stroke play, see also Rules 31-3 and 31-7a.
yeah...kinda like the 1st and 2nd Amendment..../s