A player’s Handicap Index should represent their demonstrated ability and, where appropriate, be responsive to scores that are inconsistent with their demonstrated ability.
As a Handicap Index is intended to represent a golfer’s “potential” ability, it is based on your better scores – the best 8 of your most recent 20.
Read more on USGA's Rules of Handicapping page: Rule 5 Handicap Index Calculation for detailed information on the rules and mathematics of handicapping.
Rule 5 covers the process of calculating a Handicap Index and incorporates the safeguards needed to help ensure that a player’s Handicap Index remains reflective of their ability and that equity is retained for all golfers. It includes mechanisms that:- Take into consideration the conditions in which a round was played.
- Remember previously demonstrated ability within a defined period of time.
- Cap the upward movement of a player’s Handicap Index within a defined period of time.
- Apply additional adjustments to a player’s Handicap Index when an exceptional score is submitted.
Have other Handicapping questions? Check out our Handicap 101 page.