How to get a golf handicap
A Handicap Index is your ticket to competitive golf. It only takes 54 holesto establish one — here's exactly how to get yours and start entering tournaments.
What is a Handicap Index?
A Handicap Index is a number that reflects your demonstrated ability, so golfers of any level can compete on a level field. It runs on the World Handicap System and is the single most common requirement to enter an amateur tournament.
- 54holes to establish an Index — any mix of 9s and 18s
- $30–60typical annual cost through a state eClub
- 1GHIN number that follows you for life
Get your handicap in your state
The USGA will match you to a golf club or association near you in West Virginia — it only takes a few minutes.
Get a handicap with the USGA ↗Three ways to get a handicap
1 · Your state association
Most state Allied Golf Associations run a low-cost virtual eClub that issues a GHIN — no course membership needed. The fastest path for first-timers. Use the picker above to find yours.
2 · Your home course
Most public and private courses are authorized to issue handicaps. If there's a course you play often, ask the pro shop — they can usually set you up on the spot.
3 · The USGA
Don't know where to start? The USGA's tool matches you to a community near you by zip code and gets you signed up in minutes.
Open the USGA tool ↗Frequently asked questions
- What is a Handicap Index?
- A Handicap Index is a number that represents your demonstrated golfing ability. It lets players of different skill levels compete fairly and is required to enter most amateur tournaments. It runs on the World Handicap System (WHS), used worldwide.
- How many rounds do I need to get a handicap?
- Just 54 holes — any combination of 9- and 18-hole scores. As soon as you post that many holes to an authorized club, you’ll receive an official Handicap Index.
- How much does a handicap cost?
- It varies by state association, but most virtual "eClubs" run about $30–$60 per year, which includes your GHIN number and score-posting through the GHIN mobile app.
- Do I need a handicap to enter tournaments?
- Many amateur events require an active USGA Handicap Index to enter, and some cap the field by handicap. Even when it’s optional, having one lets you track your game and qualify for more competitions.
- Do I have to join a golf course?
- No. While most courses can set you up with a handicap, you can also join your state Allied Golf Association’s virtual eClub — no course membership required — or sign up through the USGA, which assigns you a community by zip code.
Got your handicap? Now go compete.
Find amateur tournaments you can enter — search by state, format and date across thousands of events.