Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Playing Handicap Calculation converts a player's unrounded Course Handicap into the number of strokes used for a particular format. It applies the authorised handicap allowance, such as 100% for individual Match Play, then rounds the result to a whole number.
How it matters in match play
For individual Match Play, the recommended allowance is 100%, so the Playing Handicap is normally the rounded Course Handicap. The player with the lowest Playing Handicap plays from zero relative strokes; each opponent receives the difference from that lowest number. The Committee or national association may specify a different allowance in the Terms of the Competition.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Playing Handicap Calculation |
| Category | handicap |
| Applicable rule | WHS Rules of Handicapping, Rule 6.1 and Rule 6.2; Appendix C |
| Related concepts | Course Handicap, Handicap Index, Handicap Allowance, Handicap Stroke, Match Play |
Worked example
Alex has a Handicap Index of 12.4 on a course rated 72.3 with Slope Rating 128 and par 72: the unrounded Course Handicap is 12.4 × (128 ÷ 113) + (72.3 − 72) = 14.346. At 100% individual Match Play allowance, Alex's Playing Handicap rounds to 14; against Ben's 10, Alex receives four relative strokes.
Rule reference: WHS Rules of Handicapping, Rule 6.1 and Rule 6.2; Appendix C
Sources: www.usga.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Is Playing Handicap the same as Handicap Index?
No. Handicap Index is converted into a Course Handicap using the course's Course Rating, Slope Rating and par. The Playing Handicap then applies the format's handicap allowance to the unrounded Course Handicap and rounds the result.
What allowance is used for individual Match Play?
The WHS Appendix C recommended allowance is 100% for individual Match Play. That means the Playing Handicap is normally the rounded Course Handicap, subject to the allowance specified by the Committee or authorised association for the competition.
How are Playing Handicaps compared in a singles match?
The player with the lowest Playing Handicap plays off zero. Each other player receives the difference between their own Playing Handicap and the lowest one, with those Handicap Strokes allocated by the hole's Stroke Index.
Should I apply the allowance to a rounded Course Handicap?
Normally no. Apply the allowance to the full, unrounded Course Handicap to avoid double rounding, then round the resulting Playing Handicap. A rounded Course Handicap is a practical fallback only in limited circumstances when the unrounded value is unavailable.
Who decides the allowance for a handicap competition?
The Committee should state the handicap allowance in the Terms of the Competition. Under WHS, the national association may establish allowances or delegate that responsibility to a regional association or golf club.