Types of Golf Handicaps
Scratch Handicap
- A scratch golfer plays to a 0 handicap, meaning they are expected to shoot par on any course. The term is commonly used as a benchmark in competitive golf or when setting course ratings. In the context of events, labeling a field as "scratch" simply means that no handicaps are applied—all players compete straight-up.
A.I. Handicap
- An A.I.-powered handicap uses machine learning to analyze a golfer’s scoring history, trends, and course data to predict likely scores—not just totals, but hole-by-hole forecasts. Unlike traditional systems based on static averages, it delivers a dynamic, data-driven assessment.
- A unique benefit is the ability to set target levels—such as a score you’d expect to beat 25% or 10% of the time—giving golfers a customizable experience that mirrors the concept of potential-based handicaps, but with real-time adaptability.
World Handicap System™ (WHS™)
- The current industry standard, co-governed by the USGA and R&A. WHS™ calculates a golfer’s Handicap Index (to one decimal place), based on the best 8 of the last 20 rounds. This Index is then adjusted for course and tee difficulty to generate a Playing Handicap for competition.
- 👉 Learn more at www.whs.com
Handicomp Golf Handicap System (HGHS)
- Developed by Handicomp in 2006, HGHS calculates a golfer’s Base Handicap to one decimal place and converts it into a Tee Handicap that accounts for course difficulty.
- 👉 Learn more about HGHS
League Handicap
- A handicap used specifically within golf leagues, often customized to match league rules and competitive goals. Many leagues exclude non-league scores, disqualifying WHS™ by default since it requires posting of all rounds.
- Historically, about 40% of leagues using the Golf League Network (GLN) opt for HGHS. Others prefer simple, custom methods—such as averaging the best or middle 3 of the last 5 scores.
- Since its introduction in 2024, many GLN leagues are opting to use the A.I. Handicap.
Tournament Handicap
- A handicap applied during a specific event. While many private clubs and high-end competitions favor WHS™ for its standardization, tournament committees often apply adjustments to account for limited score history, suspected sandbagging, or known inconsistencies.
Local Handicap
- A handicap used within a specific club, course, or group—often filtered to remove out-of-area or seasonal scores. For example, northern clubs might exclude winter scores from southern play due to concerns about fairness and course differences. Local handicaps reflect preferences specific to the hosting facility or group.
Custom Handicap
- A non-standard formula tailored for a specific group, format, or casual event. Popular in leagues and social groups, these formulas are typically based on simple averages (e.g., last 10 scores), and often don’t adjust for tee difficulty, making them non-portable across courses.
Negotiated Handicap
- A handicap number agreed upon informally by players, typically for casual matches or betting games. Though not based on formal data, it reflects a mutual understanding of relative skill and is often reached through friendly negotiation.
Points / Quota Handicap
- Used in formats where players earn points based on performance relative to par (e.g., Stableford or Quota games). Each golfer’s point goal or quota is adjusted over time based on past results, creating a rolling handicap that evolves with performance.
Callaway Handicap
- A single-use, post-round handicap system often used in charity outings or tournaments where players don't have established handicaps. Based on a predefined chart, it subtracts strokes from a player’s worst holes to estimate ability—offering a quick but imprecise way to level the playing field.
