Handicap

The USGA Handicap System™ enables golfers of all skill levels to compete on an equitable basis. This section of the site will help golfers understand why having a Handicap Index® is important. There are links to "The USGA Handicap System" manual, the USGA's handicapping equivalent of "The Rules of Golf", and a Course Handicap™ calculator to allow players to convert their Handicap Index to the Course Handicap for any course that has been properly rated. Articles and resources are available for anyone interested in starting a golf club or for current Handicap Committee chairmen who need assistance in maintaining handicaps for their respective clubs. The current version of the USGA Handicap System went into effect on Jan. 1, 2012, and the next revision will take effect on Jan. 1, 2016. Any modifications to the System are noted on this Web site. 

 

 

 

 

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Section 16 PAR COMPUTATION

16/1. Failure of Club to Establish Par in Accordance with USGA Guidelines

Q: What may be done if par is not established in accordance with Section 16?  For example, a club has designated a 330-yard hole without any unusual features as a par-5 for women. This designation is well outside the USGA guidelines. Must clubs using the USGA Handicap System establish par within the guidelines?

A: Yes. If notified in writing, the USGA will request the authorized golf association in the area to contact the club about changing par. If the golf association is unable to persuade the club to change par on the hole, the USGA will write to the club requesting the change.

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