How is a Handicap Index® calculated?

A Handicap Index can be calculated with as few as three 18-hole scores. For scoring records with fewer than 20 scores, the number of differentials used in the calculation varies — refer to the scoring record table in the Rules of Handicapping for the exact scale. When fewer than 20 scores are in your scoring record, fewer scores are used to calculate your Handicap Index.

Once you have 20 scores in your scoring record, your Handicap Index is calculated by averaging the best 8 Score Differentials™ out of your most recent 20 scores. This averaged value may then be adjusted by one of two built-in safeguards:

• You submit an exceptional score, which is 7.0 strokes or better than your Handicap Index at the time the round is played.
• Your 8 of 20 calculation is 3.0 or more strokes above your Low Handicap Index™ from the previous 365 days.

If either of those safeguards is applied, it will be clearly identified in your scoring record. (Rule 5, Rules of Handicapping)