Handicapping Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I establish a USGA Handicap Index?

A:  Ask the club to which you belong if they use the GHIN (Golf Handicap Information Network) Service. If they do ask to be added to their roster and they will then assign a GHIN Number for your use. With this number you may begin posting scores at GHIN.com or as a guest at any club that uses the GHIN Service.

Q:  I have a GHIN # in Florida, I need a separate 1 for Rhode Island, right?

A:  Wrong. Players should have 1 GHIN #. If you have 2 GHIN #’s, you shouldn’t and your pro can merge them.

Q:  How often is my Handicap Index Revised?

A:  The World Handicap System is updated daily therefore it important that your score be posted on the same day as the round was played. 

Q:  What Scores Should I Post?

A:  At least 9 holes must be played for a score to be acceptable for handicap purposes. In addition, those 9 holes must have a 9-hole Course Rating and Slope Rating.  When indicating the number of holes played, you’ll see 3 options :  9-hole, 18-hole or 10-17 holes. For the 10 and 17 holes option, if  9 of those holes correspond to a 9-hole rating, then the score is acceptable. If posting 10-17 holes, you must use the “hole-by-hole” option in the GHIN system.  As of 2024, 9-hole courses of at least 750 yards and 18-hole courses of at least 1,500 yards are eligible for ratings, and therefore, these scores should also be posted if a rating is available. 

Q:  How do I record Conceded Stroke or Holes

A:  A player should record the most likely score or the hole when a concession has been made.

Q:  What is the World Handicap System?

A:  Established in 2020, the system uses a set of rules in determining handicaps for golfers world-wide. These rules are built into the GHIN system. For more information click here.

Q:  Does your Handicap Represent your true potential?

A:  Handicaps allow players of different abilities to compete on an equitable basis. The system trusts that golfers play honestly and post all scores. Remember that your USGA Handicap Index reflects your potential ability and not the average of all your scores. A player is expected to play to his or her Course Handicap or better only 25 percent of the time.