To regain amateur status in golf, you must apply through your national governing body, such as the USGA or R&A. The process often includes a waiting period, generally at least six months, which varies by factors like professional play. Applicants must follow strict rules during this period, and they cannot compete in amateur-only events until reinstated. This waiting period was reduced from 1-2 years down to six months as of Jan 1, 2022. Upon a review, the governing body finalizes reinstatement. Full details can be found here.

In years past, your status was a big deal. Today, regaining amateur status seems as simple as asking for it back and waiting out the grace period. It’s assumed that professionals who have only briefly competed might be reinstated more quickly than those who had long careers to eliminate Patrick Cantlay from winning your next Pro-Am as the Am (exaggeration for effect). 

The USGA reinstatement website states it is possible to be denied your amateur status, though this is a less common scenario. How many players' names would be recognized globally who went on to win an elite amateur game? We presume none of the above names are listed. It states:

“The national governing body can choose to deny an applicant’s reinstatement in limited circumstances. This may be appropriate when a player has attained a certain standard of prominence or achieved a certain level of accomplishment in the game. Defining a standard to deny reinstatement on a global level is not possible as circumstances vary from country to country. It is a matter for each national governing body to establish its own guidelines for making this decision, but it may also consult The USGA before making a decision.”

This process also includes proving that any membership with professional organizations has been relinquished and providing an accurate playing history. Once approved, the applicant's reinstatement date allows them to return to amateur competition. The Rules surprisingly allow a non-amateur to be reinstated more than once. While we’ve yet to hear of a specific circumstance where this warrants eyebrows raised, it certainly would if a championship-caliber player is ping-ponging between amateur and professional.

There is some debate over whether the process is too easy. Critics argue the process undermines the amateur field. Some believe the system can be manipulated by players who failed professionally but still hold a competitive edge over lifelong amateurs. Others maintain that it is fair since they are merely complying with the process laid out in front of them. Where do you stand?