2.1 Acceptability of Scores

A score is acceptable for handicap purposes if the round has been played:

In an authorized format of play (see Rule 2.1a Played in an Authorized Format of Play) over at least the minimum number of holes required for either a 9-hole or an 18-hole score to be acceptable (see Rule ),
In the company of at least one other person, who may also act as a marker (subject to satisfying any other requirements of the Rules of Golf),
By the Rules of Golf (see Rule 2.1b Played by the Rules of Golf),
On a golf course with a current Course Rating and Slope Rating, where length and normal playing difficulty is maintained at a consistent level (see Appendix G: The Golf Course, Course Rating and Slope Rating),
On a golf course during its active season.

In addition, the player’s score must always be certified in accordance with the Rules of Handicapping (see Rule 4.4 Certification of a Score).

If one or more of the requirements set out above is not met, the score is not acceptable for handicap purposes.

Rule 2.1 Clarifications:

2.1/1 – Score is Acceptable for Handicap Purposes Even If Holes Have Not Been Played in the Order Set by the Committee

Rule 5.1 of the Rules of Golf requires holes in a round to be played in the order set by either the Committee in charge of the competition or the Committee in charge of the golf course. However, provided the player has not been disqualified, a score is acceptable for handicap purposes even if the holes in a round have not been played in the order set by the Committee.

For example:

When the golf course is busy and starting at an alternative hole will allow a quicker pace of play.
When playing holes in a different order will allow more players to complete their rounds, particularly during periods when daylight is limited.

If the player has been disqualified, see 2.1b Played by the Rules of Golf.

2.1/2 – Status of Scores Made When Match Play and Stroke Play Formats are Played Concurrently

When a player competes in a match while also playing in a stroke-play round and both are authorized formats of play, the stroke-play score is the score that should be submitted for handicap purposes. The match-play score should not be submitted.

2.1/3 – Returning Scores for Handicap Purposes While Playing on Temporary Greens or Tees

The Authorized Association should determine whether scores made under temporary course conditions are acceptable for handicap purposes. The Authorized Association should also determine whether a temporary modification to the Course Rating and Slope Rating is required to reflect the temporary changes (see Appendix G: The Golf Course, Course Rating and Slope Rating).