Golf handicap index.

Worked example

Five rounds, most recent first: 85 on a 71.2 / 130 course, 88 on the same tees, 82 on 70.4 / 124 with a +1 PCC, 91 on the 71.2 / 130 tees and 86 on 69.8 / 122. Differentials: (113 / 130) × (85 − 71.2) = 12.0; the rest are 14.6, 9.7, 17.2, 15.0. Five scores use the lowest 1 with no adjustment, so the Handicap Index is 9.7. With only 3 scores the same method uses the lowest 1 and subtracts 2.0; with 20 scores it averages the lowest 8.

How it works

Each round becomes a Score Differential = (113 / Slope Rating) × (adjusted gross score − Course Rating − PCC adjustment), rounded to the nearest tenth with .5 rounded up. The Handicap Index averages the lowest differentials from your most recent 20, using this table, then rounds to a tenth:

What is not applied. This is the basic calculation only. It does not apply the soft cap and hard cap that limit upward movement against your Low Handicap Index, the maximum Handicap Index, exceptional-score reductions, 9-hole score pairing or the daily PCC itself, so it can differ from your official Index. Your adjusted gross score caps each hole at net double bogey, which you must apply before entering it. Your national golf association issues your official Handicap Index.

Sources and basis (checked 2026-10-05): USGA Rules of Handicapping, Rule 5.2 (Handicap Index table and 20-score rule); USGA Rules of Handicapping, Rule 5.1a (Score Differential formula); World Handicap System overview (soft cap, hard cap).

FAQ

How is a golf handicap calculated?

Each round is turned into a Score Differential, (113 / Slope Rating) x (adjusted gross score - Course Rating - PCC). Your Handicap Index is the average of the lowest 8 of your most recent 20 differentials. With fewer than 20 rounds a table sets how many to use.

How many rounds do I need for a Handicap Index?

Three scores are enough to establish one. With 3 scores the lowest differential is used with a 2.0 reduction, and the reduction shrinks as you add rounds.

Why does this not match my official Handicap Index?

This calculator does not apply the soft cap, hard cap, exceptional score reduction or the daily PCC, and it needs adjusted gross scores with net double bogey applied. Your golf association calculates the official figure.

What is Slope Rating?

Slope Rating shows how much harder a course plays for a bogey golfer than for a scratch golfer. 113 is the standard slope, and it is on your scorecard for each set of tees.

Is a lower Handicap Index better?

Yes. A lower Index means a better player. A scratch golfer is 0.0, and a plus handicap, shown with a plus sign, is better than scratch.