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Handicapping FAQs

Section 3
Maximum Handicap Index®
Q. What is the maximum Handicap Index for men and women?
A. The maximum Handicap Index is 36.4 for men and 40.4 for women (18.2N and 20.2N for a nine-hole Handicap Index, respectively). The Course Handicap™ could convert to a number higher than the maximum Handicap Index. Example: A Handicap Index of 36.4 on a course with a Slope Rating® of 145 would be 47 (e.g. 36.4 x 145 / 113 = 47 Course Handicap). Anything above the maximum Handicap Index must be designated with an “L” for local club use only (e.g. 45.0L). Anything set below the maximum Handicap Index for an event is a condition of the competition (e.g. maximum USGA Handicap Index for event is 25.0). Please visit Section 3-4 of the USGA Handicap System manual for further reference.