World Handicap System (WHS)

Coming January 2020, the new World Handicap System (WHS) will be implemented, providing all golfers with a consistent measure of playing ability worldwide. Some highlights of the new system will include: 

• Minimum number of scores needed to establish a Handicap Index is 54 holes  
• A handicap that is portable worldwide 
• Average-based calculation of the best-8-of-last-20-scores 
• Playing Conditions Calculation 
• Daily handicap revisions when a score is posted 
• Maximum hole score is Net Double Bogey 
• Maximum handicap limit is 54.0, regardless of gender 
• Exceptional Score Reduction on all scores, not just tournament scores
• And more! 

Rules of Handicapping Manual 

5 Things to Know About the World Handicap System

Key Changes

World Handicap Frequently Asked Questions

Click here for more information from the USGA on the World Handicap System.