Golf Handicap Calculator
Calculate your golf handicap for a course using your handicap index and course data.
About the Golf Handicap Calculator
Learn more about the calculator and its creator
Jonas
I have been a golf enthusiast for many years and I built this calculator to help easily calculate your golf handicap.
How to Calculate Your Golf Handicap
The handicap calculator helps determine your course handicap based on various factors specific to each golf course. Whether you're a scratch golfer or just starting out, understanding your golf handicap is essential for fair competition at any golf club.
Understanding the Golf Handicap System
Your golf handicap represents your potential playing ability on any golf course. The handicap calculation considers your scoring record, course rating, and course slope to determine your playing handicap.
Score Differentials and Handicap Rating
The handicap system uses score differentials from your previous rounds. Your average score and hole score history contribute to your final course handicap calculation. The playing conditions and exceptional scores in your scoring record may also affect the result.
Key Components of the Golf Handicap System
- Your handicap index represents your potential ability on a "neutral" course
- The course rating indicates what a scratch golfer would typically score
- The course slope shows relative difficulty for non-scratch golfers
- Playing conditions calculation adjusts for daily course conditions
Input Parameters for Course Handicap
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1
Maximum Handicap Index
Your official handicap index from your golf association (subject to maximum limits)
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2
Course Rating
The evaluation of course difficulty for a scratch golfer (e.g., 71.2)
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3
Slope Rating
The relative difficulty rating for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer (e.g., 123)
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4
Par Score
The standard score for the course (e.g., 72)
Calculation Process
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1
Slope Adjustment
Multiply your Handicap Index by the Slope Rating divided by 113 (the standard slope rating)
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2
Course Rating Adjustment
Add the difference between Course Rating and Par
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3
Final Rounding
Round the result to the nearest whole number
Output
The calculator provides your Course Handicap as a whole number. This is the number of strokes you should receive for the round.
Important Notes for Golf Handicap Calculation
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1
Official Ratings and Scoring Record
Always use official course rating and slope values from your golf club or golf association.
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2
Verification
Double-check the ratings on your scorecard or with the pro shop.
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3
Updates
Remember that your Handicap Index may change over time as you submit new scores.
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4
Competition Use
For tournament play, always verify your Course Handicap with tournament officials.
While this handicap calculator provides a quick way to determine your course handicap, always verify the results with your golf association or club professionals, especially for tournament play where playing conditions calculations may apply.