Playing handicap calculator
Your course handicap, adjusted for the format you’re playing. Add a partner or opponent to see the shots between you.
Recommended handicap allowances
Stableford uses the same allowances as stroke play. In foursomes the pair plays off 50% of their combined course handicaps.
Playing handicap questions
How do you work out a playing handicap?
Playing handicap = course handicap × handicap allowance, rounded to the nearest whole number. The allowance depends on the format: 95% for individual stroke play and stableford, 85% for fourball better ball, 100% for singles matchplay, 90% for fourball matchplay and 50% of the combined course handicaps for foursomes.
How many shots do I get in matchplay?
In singles matchplay each player’s playing handicap is 100% of their course handicap, and the higher handicap receives the difference between the two on the stroke index holes.
Can my society use different allowances?
Yes. These are the recommended allowances under the World Handicap System. A club or society can set its own for its competitions, so check the terms of the day.