Golf Handicap Calculator

Calculate golf handicap index from recent scores.

Guides & Reference

How It Works

Calculates a golf handicap differential using: Differential = (Score - Course Rating) × 113 / Slope Rating. An official handicap uses the best 8 of your last 20 differentials.

Formula

Handicap Index = best differentials avg x 0.96

Quick Reference

Common calculations — results you can verify instantly.

Shot 90, Rating 72, Slope 113

(90-72)×113/113

Differential=18

Scratch golfer

Handicap index

0.0

Average golfer

Handicap range

15-25 typical

Tips & Shortcuts

Course Rating represents par performance for a scratch golfer.

Slope Rating measures course difficulty (113 is average; 155 is very hard).

Your handicap index changes after every posted round.

Common Mistakes

Confusing handicap differential with handicap index

Differential is per-round calculation. Handicap Index is the average of best 8 of 20 differentials.

Not adjusting for Equitable Stroke Control (ESC)

ESC limits the maximum score per hole before posting, preventing one bad hole from inflating your handicap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Single digits (0-9) is excellent. 10-18 is good. 19-28 is average. Above 28 is beginner. Scratch = 0 handicap.

Course Handicap = Handicap Index × Slope Rating ÷ 113 + (Course Rating - Par).

Related Calculators