How Do I Get A Handicap In Golf?

Golf is a sport that combines skill, strategy, and patience, offering players of all ages and abilities a chance to enjoy the game in a competitive yet friendly environment. One of the key elements that allows golfers of different abilities to compete on an even playing field is the handicap system. In the UK, obtaining a golf handicap involves a specific process that ensures fairness and accuracy. This blog post will guide you through the steps necessary to obtain a golf handicap in the UK, from understanding the basics to registering and maintaining your handicap.



A golf handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer's potential ability. It allows players of different skill levels to compete fairly. The handicap system is designed to level the playing field by providing strokes to higher-handicapped players. The lower your handicap, the better your ability.

In 2020, the World Handicap System (WHS) was introduced, unifying six different handicap systems used around the world. This means that your handicap will be recognized globally. The WHS aims to be more inclusive and accurate, ensuring that a player's handicap reflects their potential ability more closely.



Under the WHS, your handicap index is calculated based on the best 8 of your last 20 scores, taking into account the course rating and slope rating of the courses you play. Here are the key components:

1. **Handicap Index**: Represents your potential ability on a standard golf course.
2. **Course Rating**: Indicates the difficulty of a course for a scratch golfer.
3. **Slope Rating**: Measures the relative difficulty of a course for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer.
4. **Playing Handicap**: The number of strokes a player receives on a specific course.



Step 1: Join a Golf Club

The first step to obtaining a golf handicap in the UK is to join a golf club that is affiliated with one of the national governing bodies, such as England Golf, Scottish Golf, Wales Golf, or Golf Ireland. Being a member of an affiliated club is essential because only these clubs can issue and maintain official handicaps under the WHS.

When choosing a golf club, consider factors such as location, membership fees, course quality, and the club’s facilities. Many clubs offer different types of memberships, including full, intermediate, and junior memberships.

Step 2: Submit Scorecards

Once you are a member of an affiliated golf club, you need to submit scorecards for a minimum of 54 holes to establish your initial handicap index. These can be made up of any combination of 9 or 18-hole rounds. The scorecards must be from rounds played in accordance with the Rules of Golf and must be attested by a fellow player or a marker.

It is important to note that your scores should reflect your true ability, so avoid artificially inflating or deflating your scores.

Step 3: Course and Slope Rating

Each golf course has a course rating and a slope rating, which are essential components in calculating your handicap index. The course rating indicates the difficulty of the course for a scratch golfer, while the slope rating measures the difficulty for a bogey golfer.

When you submit your scorecards, the golf club will use the course and slope ratings of the courses you played to calculate your handicap index. This ensures that your handicap reflects the relative difficulty of the courses you have played.

Step 4: Handicap Calculation

Your initial handicap index is calculated using the best scores from your submitted rounds, adjusted for course and slope ratings. The formula used under the WHS is designed to ensure fairness and accuracy. The basic calculation involves the following steps:

1. **Calculate the Adjusted Gross Score (AGS)**: This is your gross score adjusted for any handicap allowances and exceptional scores.
2. **Calculate the Score Differential**: This is the difference between your AGS and the course rating, adjusted for slope rating.
3. **Average the Best Differentials**: Your handicap index is the average of the best 8 score differentials from your last 20 rounds.

Your golf club’s handicap committee will review and confirm your handicap index before it is officially issued.

Maintaining and Updating Your Handicap

Once you have obtained your initial handicap, it is essential to maintain and update it regularly. The WHS is designed to be dynamic, meaning your handicap index will change as you submit new scores. Here are some key points to consider:

Regular Play and Score Submission

To keep your handicap accurate, you should regularly submit scorecards from rounds played under the Rules of Golf. Most clubs have systems in place for submitting scores electronically or via a physical scorecard drop box.

Exceptional Scores and Adjustments

If you have an exceptional score that is significantly better than your current handicap index, the WHS has mechanisms to adjust your handicap more rapidly. This ensures that your handicap reflects your current playing ability more accurately.

Annual Review

Many golf clubs conduct an annual review of their members' handicaps to ensure they remain accurate. This review may involve analysing your scoring history and making any necessary adjustments.

Playing Competitions

One of the main benefits of having a golf handicap is the ability to compete in club competitions and open tournaments. Competitions often have different handicap categories, allowing players of all abilities to compete fairly. Your playing handicap for each competition will be calculated based on the course and slope ratings of the competition course.

Using Technology

The WHS leverages technology to make managing your handicap easier. Many clubs use software systems that allow you to submit scores online, track your handicap changes, and access your playing history. Additionally, mobile apps such as England Golf’s MyEG app provide convenient ways to manage your handicap on the go.



How often should I play to maintain my handicap?

There is no specific requirement for how often you must play, but regular play helps keep your handicap accurate. Aim to submit scores from at least 20 rounds each year to ensure your handicap index reflects your current ability.

Can I have a handicap if I only play 9-hole rounds?

Yes, you can obtain and maintain a handicap index even if you primarily play 9-hole rounds. The WHS allows for the submission of 9-hole scores, and these will be combined to form 18-hole equivalent scores for handicap purposes.

What happens if my playing ability changes significantly?

If your playing ability changes significantly due to factors such as injury, illness, or significant improvement, you can discuss this with your club’s handicap committee. They have the authority to adjust your handicap index to reflect your new playing ability accurately.



Having a golf handicap offers numerous benefits, both on and off the course. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. **Fair Competition**: A handicap allows you to compete fairly with golfers of different abilities, making the game more enjoyable and inclusive.
2. **Tracking Progress**: Your handicap index provides a measurable way to track your improvement over time.
3. **Access to Competitions**: Many golf competitions require participants to have an official handicap, allowing you to participate in a wide range of events.
4. **Enhanced Enjoyment**: Knowing your handicap can enhance your enjoyment of the game by providing a benchmark for your performance and setting goals for improvement.
5. **Global Recognition**: The WHS ensures that your handicap is recognized worldwide, allowing you to play and compete on an international level.



Improving your golf handicap requires dedication, practice, and a strategic approach. Here are some tips to help you lower your handicap and enhance your golfing experience:

1. **Regular Practice**: Dedicate time to practice all aspects of your game, including driving, iron play, chipping, and putting. Consistent practice helps build muscle memory and improve your overall skills.
2. **Take Lessons**: Consider taking lessons from a professional golf instructor. They can provide personalized guidance and help you address specific areas of your game that need improvement.
3. **Course Management**: Develop a strategic approach to playing each hole. Understand your strengths and weaknesses and make decisions that minimize risk and maximize your chances of success.
4. **Physical Fitness**: Improve your physical fitness to enhance your strength, flexibility, and endurance. A fitter body can lead to more consistent and powerful swings.
5. **Mental Game**: Work on your mental game by developing focus, concentration, and a positive attitude. Managing stress and staying composed under pressure can significantly impact your performance.
6. **Analyse Your Game**: Keep track of your scores and analyze your performance to identify patterns and areas for improvement. Use this data to adjust your practice and playing strategies.



Obtaining a golf handicap in the UK is a straightforward process that opens the door to fair competition and personal improvement in the sport. By joining an affiliated golf club, submitting scorecards, and maintaining your handicap, you can enjoy the numerous benefits that come with having an official golf handicap. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, the handicap system provides a valuable tool for measuring your progress and enhancing your enjoyment of the game. So, take the first step, join a golf club, and start your journey towards obtaining your golf handicap today. Happy golfing!