Free golf handicap calculator using World Handicap System (WHS). Calculate your handicap index, course handicap, and score differentials.
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Use this calculator to determine your official golf handicap index following the World Handicap System (WHS) methodology. Track your score differentials and see how your handicap is calculated.
A handicap index is a measure of your playing ability based on recent scores. The World Handicap System uses your best score differentials to calculate an index that allows golfers of different abilities to compete fairly. Score differentials are calculated by comparing your score to the course difficulty.
Score Differential Formula
Differential = (113 ÷ Slope) × (Score - Course Rating)Handicaps level the playing field, allowing golfers of all skill levels to compete against each other fairly.
Monitor your improvement over time as your handicap decreases with better scores.
Calculate appropriate strokes for any course based on its difficulty (slope rating).
An official handicap is required for most club competitions and tournaments.
Uses lowest 1 differential with adjustment (-2.0 for 3 rounds, -1.0 for 4 rounds).
Uses lowest 2 differentials (-1.0 adjustment for 6 rounds only).
Uses lowest 3 differentials with no adjustment.
Uses between 4-8 of your lowest differentials depending on total rounds.
Course rating and slope rating are printed on the scorecard, usually near the tee information. They vary by tee box (men's, women's, senior, etc.).
Under the World Handicap System, the maximum handicap index is 54.0 for both men and women. This allows newer golfers to obtain a handicap.
Post scores after every round. The WHS updates handicaps after each round rather than on a fixed schedule, so your handicap reflects your current ability.
Handicap index is your portable rating. Course handicap adjusts your index for a specific course's difficulty (slope). Course Handicap = Index × (Slope ÷ 113) + (CR - Par).
Playing handicap is course handicap adjusted for competition format. In individual stroke play, it's typically 95% of course handicap. Different formats use different percentages.