Getting a USGA Verified Handicap

Similar to bowling, the game of golf employs a handicap system. That system allows a golfer of lesser ability to be able to compete evenly against golfers of better skill, such as in tournaments. The handicap system is overseen by the United States Golfers Association (USGA), which is the governing body in the U.S. for the game of golf. Golfers must meet certain criteria in order to qualify for the Handicap Index, such as joining an officially sanctioned USGA golf club.

Instructions

    • 1

      Sign up to join a golf club (which must have a minimum of 10 members) that is licensed by the USGA to implement the USGA Handicap System, either through an authorized golf association or the governing body itself. Pay any membership fees associated with joining the golf club you have selected.

    • 2

      Play at least five rounds of golf, preferably with another member of the golf club (all gross golf scores must be witnessed by at least one other person). Sign your golf card after every round to attest that the score on the card is accurate. Turn the cards in to the club's management in order for them to qualify for peer review.

    • 3

      Wait for the revision date to pass and receive your Handicap Index. Check with your particular golf club to see when the next handicap revision date is; some clubs have dates scheduled year-round while others only have them scheduled seasonally.