World Handicap System

All about handicaps, course ratings and more.

WHS — What’s Under the Hood?

A golf handicap is a number — for example, 14.4 — but what’s behind the number?

The World Handicap System (WHS) enables golfers of different abilities to play and compete on an equitable basis, no matter how or where they play. It all starts with a Handicap Index, which is a numerical calculation of a golfer’s demonstrated ability.

All of the data and calculations for handicaps in the U.S. are managed via the GHIN technology platform. There’s a lot under the hood, but all you need to know to get started is your number.

Get an Official USGA Handicap

To get a handicap and other exclusive golf-related member benefits, join the NCGA. We have several membership options.

Join the NCGA

Calculate Course Handicap

Calculate a course handicap using your Handicap Index, and the course rating and slope rating of the tees you plan to play.

Use Handicap Calculator

Things to Know

Handicap 101

Wondering why you should have a handicap? Want to know how to get one? New to golf or have some basic handicap questions? Check out our Handicap 101 resource.

Handicap 101

Course Rating and Slope

To make the Handicap Index portable to courses all over the world and varying sets of tee locations, the WHS includes a best practice for “Course Rating and Slope” calculations. The NCGA manages this for nearly all of the Northern California golf courses.

Read WHS Article

Rules of Handicapping

The USGA offers an in-depth and thorough reference for the rules of handicapping (as of 2024). You can view it online or order it in book form.

View online manual order rule book

USGA Handicap Resources

USGA Website

The USGA website has an extensive portfolio of handicap-related resources, from beginner to advanced. Browse videos, articles, seminars, publications, quizzes, and FAQs.

View resources