How To Calculate Golf Handicap

Since the early 1900's, the USGA has had a golf handicap system in place to allow golfers of all different abilities a way to compete against one another. This golf handicap system has made it possible for golfers of less talent the opportunity to compete against stronger players by giving the less talented golfer "strokes" on certain holes during the round.

The USGA golf handicap system makes sense when you really stop to think about it. How else can a golfer who shoots an average score of 100 compete with another golfer who shoots 75? Well, by using the USGA golf handicap calculation you will be able to deduct strokes from your score on certain holes according to your handicap. When your round is over you'll take your gross score, subtract off your handicap strokes, and you'll have your final net score.

Back in the early 80's the USGA made a major change to the golf handicap system. It was renamed "handicap index" and it took a golf course's slope rating and incorporated it into the equation to calculate your handicap.

The golf handicap index is a number that is compared to the course rating in order to determine your course handicap. The course handicap number is used to figure the total strokes you get for your round. Your course handicap will be different on every golf course due to the various course and slope ratings.

I know it sounds like a somewhat complicated process, but the USGA does all the work in figuring this out for you. All you need to do is submit your scores at the end of the round.

You need to submit scores from at least 5 rounds to become eligible for a USGA handicap index. As you play more golf at your club, and turn in more scores, the USGA takes the lowest 10 scores from your last 20 rounds in calculating golf handicap index.

A lot of golfers will simply say they are a "12 handicapper" yet they have never registered for an official handicap index. Why is this important? Well, in order to compete in any golf club competitions or tournaments, you'll need to have an official USGA handicap index.

How to calculate golf handicap?

It's not real difficult to figure out how to calculate golf handicaps. You'll only need to join a golf club that uses the USGA Handicapping System. Now, don't confuse the term "golf club" with having to join a country club. A golf club is simply a group or association with at least 10 members and a handicapping committee. Many golf clubs and country clubs have their own handicap committee. Some municipal golf courses have them as well. Simply ask them if they are USGA registered. Most often they will be.

Once you're a member in the system, it's very easy to keep up with your handicap. You just turn in your scores at the end of every round. You can either turn in your scorecard to the club, or electronically. There are many golf courses that have a computer where you can login and enter your ID and password. Then you can punch in your score and get an up-to-the-minute handicap. Other times the handicap committee will issue updated handicaps once a week, or once a month.

As you can see, getting a USGA golf handicap isn't a difficult process. The toughest part of the entire process is in trying to lower it!