Rules of Handicapping FAQs

The Golf Course

Q. What is a Course Rating™ and what does it represent?

A. A Course Rating represents the score a scratch player, with a Handicap Index® of 0.0, should achieve on a golf course under normal course and weather conditions. For example, a Course Rating of 71.8 would equate to a scratch player’s expected score of 72 on a good round.

The Course Rating is determined by assessing the effective length of the golf course and the obstacles and challenges that face scratch players in their respective landing zones around the course. (Appendix G, Rules of Handicapping)