Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
An Authorized Format of Play is a format eligible for handicap purposes, as determined by the Authorized Association in the jurisdiction where the round is played. Eligibility is jurisdiction-specific, so a casual format is not automatically acceptable for handicap posting.
How it matters in match play
Match play can be an Authorized Format of Play, but the relevant association must authorise it in the applicable jurisdiction. If the round otherwise meets WHS conditions, its score may be acceptable for handicap purposes. When match play and stroke play are played concurrently and both are authorised, the stroke-play score is submitted rather than the match-play score under the USGA clarification.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Authorized Format of Play |
| Category | handicap |
| Applicable rule | WHS Rules of Handicapping Rule 2.1 and Rule 2.1a |
| Related concepts | Authorized Association, Acceptable Score, Score Type, Match Play, Stroke Play |
Worked example
Illustratively, Alex and Ben play an 18-hole individual match and Alex wins 3 and 2; if their jurisdiction authorises that match-play format and the round meets the other WHS conditions, Alex submits the score rather than treating the match result itself as automatic proof of acceptability.
Rule reference: WHS Rules of Handicapping Rule 2.1 and Rule 2.1a
Sources: www.usga.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Who decides whether a format is authorised?
The Authorized Association administering the Rules of Handicapping in the jurisdiction where the round is played determines which formats are eligible. Check that association or the golf club if a format is unusual.
Does an authorised match-play format automatically make every score acceptable?
No. The round must also satisfy the other WHS conditions, including the minimum holes, another person present, the Rules of Golf, a current Course Rating and Slope Rating, the active season, and score certification.
What if a format is authorised where I played but not at my home club?
For a round played outside your home jurisdiction, the WHS provisions can recognise a format authorised in the jurisdiction where the round was played, even if it is not authorised at home. The cross-jurisdiction rules also address the reverse case, so confirm the local procedure before posting.
Can I post a match score when I also played stroke play?
If both match play and stroke play are authorised and played concurrently, the USGA Rule 2.1 clarification says to submit the stroke-play score, not the match-play score.
Is a social side game an Authorized Format of Play?
Not necessarily. A format needs authorisation under the applicable Rules of Handicapping; a club or group’s house label does not by itself establish handicap eligibility.
How many holes are needed before a score can be acceptable?
The applicable association sets the minimum for a 9-hole or 18-hole score. The USGA’s explanatory guidance says an 18-hole score requires at least 10 holes and a 9-hole score requires all 9 holes in the United States.