What is a WHS Handicap in golf?
If you’ve ever wondered how golfers of all abilities can fairly compete against each other, the answer lies in the World Handicap System (WHS). Introduced to unify golf’s various handicap systems across the world, WHS provides every golfer with a consistent and portable measure of their playing ability — whether you’re teeing it up at your home club or playing abroad.
But how do you get one? Here’s a step-by-step guide to gaining your official WHS Handicap Index.
Join an Affiliated Golf Club or Scheme
To hold an official handicap, you need to be part of a golf club or membership scheme that’s affiliated with England Golf (or your national governing body, such as Scottish Golf or Golf Ireland).
That’s because only affiliated organisations can submit and maintain official handicap records through the WHS digital platform.
If you’re not ready for a full 7-day membership, flexible memberships like PlayMoreGolf offer a route to official handicaps — giving you all the benefits of affiliation without the high annual cost.
💡 Tip: Check that the club or membership provider is WHS-enabled before joining.
How Many Scores Do you Need to Submit for a Handicap?
Once you’re registered, it’s time to record your first rounds. To establish your initial Handicap Index, you’ll need to submit scores from a minimum of 54 holes — made up of any combination of:
- 3 x 18-hole rounds, or
- 6 x 9-hole rounds
These scores must be played under the Rules of Golf, marked by another golfer, and entered via the club’s WHS software or app.
Let the System Do the Work
After your first 54 holes are submitted, WHS calculates your Handicap Index using an average of your best eight rounds out of the most recent 20 (or fewer when you’re just starting out).
This calculation takes into account:
- The course rating (difficulty for a scratch golfer)
- The slope rating (difficulty for a bogey golfer)
- Your adjusted gross scores
It’s a smart, data-driven way of keeping your handicap fair — reflecting your potential ability rather than just your average score.
Keep Playing and Submitting Scores
Your handicap isn’t fixed; it evolves with your game. The more rounds you record, the more accurate your Handicap Index becomes. Every new score updates your record, and the system automatically recalculates your index overnight.
⛳ Did you know? Playing socially with friends can count too — as long as you pre-register the round on the WHS app and follow the official Rules of Golf.
What are the Benefits of a WHS Handicap?
Having an official WHS Handicap unlocks a new level of enjoyment and competition:
- You can enter official club competitions
- Play on any course in the world with a fair, comparable index
- Track your improvement over time
- Compete evenly with friends regardless of ability
And for flexible members, it adds a sense of belonging — you’re officially part of the golfing community.
Why Choose a PlayMoreGolf Membership?
PlayMoreGolf is the UK’s largest flexible membership platform, giving golfers an official home club, WHS handicap access, and the flexibility to play when and where they like.
- Affordable annual membership starting from around £320
- Access to hundreds of partner clubs nationwide
- WHS handicap and full club member benefits
- Book online, track rounds, and manage your points easily
So if you’ve been wondering how to get your handicap without the time or cost commitment of traditional membership, PlayMoreGolf is the ideal route.
Getting an official WHS Handicap is easier than ever. Whether you’re returning to golf, new to the game, or simply want to measure your progress, the World Handicap System ensures every golfer — no matter where or how often they play — can compete on a level playing field.
Ready to get started?
👉 Find your nearest PlayMoreGolf club and begin your journey to an official handicap today.
