So You Want A USGA Handicap Index®

Whether you just want a means to measure your ability, or you need a way to measure yourself against your playing buddies so that you can take them on in fair and equitable games, you should consider getting a USGA Handicap Index®.  Even more important, if you're interested in playing in events hosted at various golf courses, you normally cannot even enter unless you have an official USGA Handicap Index®.

A USGA Handicap Index is more than just a number that is computed using a formula developed by the USGA.  It is a process that is governed by a set of Rules that complement the Rules of Golf®.  These Rules are known as the USGA Handicap System and the most important provision is that you must be a member of a club so that the process of "peer review" can take place. 

Caveat emptor is Latin for "Let the buyer beware."  If you want assurance that your are spending your money wisely, please know that a bona fide USGA Handicap Index is not something you can purchase on your own. You MUST be a member of a club that is licensed by the USGA or the State/Regional Golf Association.  

In Oregon and SW Washington, nearly 100% of the licensed clubs are OGA Member Clubs, and it is not uncommon for events not to accept a handicap index issued by a club that is not an OGA Member Club.  When you join an OGA Member Club, you can feel proud knowing that you have joined an alliance committed to safeguarding the integrity of the game, promoting fair play, preserving the game’s traditions and enhancing the playing environment for all golfers.

Clubs must meet some basic requirements in order to be licensed to issue a USGA Handicap Index.   For instance, USGA Handicap System requires a club to have at least 10 members who play together regularly, that the club elects officers and operates under a set of bylaws, and that the club establishes a written handicapping policy that ensures the club practices "peer review" so to keep everyone honest.

There are several other provisions a club must meet. You'll be pleased to learn that real estate – i.e., a golf course and/or a clubhouse – is not one of the requirements. You could join or form a club at a public course, at work, at your church, business or social group or or even form your own club just between friends.

To find a club in your area that provides you the benefits you are looking for in a club besides a USGA Handicap Index, visit our ClubFinder on ExploreOregonGolf.com

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