Golf Handicap Calculator
Adjust the inputs below. Results update as you type.
How it works
Score differential = (adjusted gross score − course rating) × 113 / slope rating. Handicap index uses the best 8 of your last 20 differentials, averaged, then multiplied by 0.96. Course handicap = handicap index × slope / 113 + (course rating − par). The WHS replaced multiple regional systems in 2020 for global portability. Handicaps are administered through authorized golf associations.
Input guidance
- Confirm date/time/unit settings before comparing outputs.
- If a task has optional fields, run both with and without them to understand impact.
- Save scenario variants when making practical decisions.
The formula
A handicap index averages the best score differentials: differential = (score − course rating) × 113 ÷ slope rating. The index uses the average of your best recent differentials.
Worked example
Shooting 90 on a course rated 70.0 with slope 125: differential = (90 − 70) × 113 ÷ 125 = 18.1.
More examples to test
- Quick-pass example: run default assumptions for a first estimate.
- Refined example: update one assumption at a time to isolate impact.
How to interpret results
Use outputs as operational estimates and pair them with local constraints, business rules, or provider requirements.
When this can be inaccurate
Utilities can miss local policy details, special-case rules, and environment-specific constraints.
Change history
- July 2026: Quality-reviewed for publication with formula checks and explanatory copy updates.
Site-wide corrections also appear on the corrections log.
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General recommendation, not professional advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is a golf handicap?+
A number representing a golfer's ability, letting players of different skill compete fairly by adjusting scores.
What are course and slope ratings?+
Course rating is the expected score for a scratch golfer; slope reflects difficulty for higher handicappers. Both feed the differential formula.
How many rounds do I need?+
Handicap systems use your best differentials from recent rounds, so several scores are needed for an accurate index.
Why are outputs slightly different from another tool?+
Different tools can use different rounding rules, default assumptions, and treatment of edge cases.
How can I improve estimate reliability?+
Use verified inputs from real records and re-run calculations after major assumption changes.