Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a golf handicap?: A: A golf handicap is a number that measures your scoring ability relative to other golfers. It is simple to use, but is calculated using a complex mathematical system. It represents the number of strokes per round of golf that you would take over that of a ‘scratch’ (0 handicap) golfer.
Q: Why do I need a handicap certificate?: A: There are three main reasons why golfers want a golf handicap.
- To consistently measure performance over time. Golfers with a handicap focus and concentrate more than those without a handicap. Therefore a handicap will improve your game.
- A golf handicap promotes fairer play and provides more enjoyable games against other golfers.
- A golf handicap certificate is often required to play on a golf course as proof of your golfing ability. We recommend faxing your certificate to the golf club to confirm it is acceptable prior to booking tee times.
Q: How much does your golf handicap cost?: A: There is an annual subscription of £19.99. Your subscription not only gives you a handicap which you can monitor it also gives you access to the game analysis helping you to improve your game.
Q: What do I need to do to get your golf handicap certificate?: A: To get our golf handicap certificate you need to enter a minimum of 3 cards online and the software programme will calculate your handicap. You can then print off your certificate and take it along with you to the course.
Q: How often do I need to enter score cards to maintain my handicap?: A: Although there is a minimum requirement to submit 3 score cards a year, the more cards you submit, the more accurate your handicap will be. Therefore, we suggest that you enter your score cards after every round, whether your score is good or bad.
Q: Do you have a list of courses that accept your handicap certificate?: A: Our golf handicap is proof of your golfing ability and therefore your certificate should be accepted at clubs throughout the world.
Q: What is the Game Analysis all about?: A: The game analysis aspect of our system allows you to monitor and analyse your game, by inputting the various shots you’ve played into the system our software will produce graphs and charts helping you to pinpoint the areas of your game you need to work on.
Q: How often can I input cards to amend my handicap?: A: You can enter a new card every time you play which will in turn re-calculate your handicap. The more cards you submit the more accurate your handicap will be.
Q: How do you input scores?: A: Inputting scores is very simple, select the ‘Enter Score Card’, then search for the course you have just played. When the scorecard is displayed simply enter your scores for each hole to the electronic card. If the course you have played does not appear please email handicapsecretary@strokesgolfhandicap.co.uk and we will add the card within 1 working day.
Q: What happens if the course I’ve played does not appear in your directory?: A: If the course you have played does not appear please email handicapsecretary@strokesgolfhandicap.co.uk and we will add the card within 1 working day
Q: Who marks the card so I can get my handicap certificate?: A: Our handicap is self-regulating so it is not a requirement for us to see your marked cards. You must however, ensure the correct scores are entered.
Q: Is the handicap accepted abroad?: A: Our handicap certificate is proof of your golfing ability and therefore your certificate should be accepted at clubs throughout the world.
Q: How long does it take for my certificate to come through?: A: Our system is all online, once you have entered three cards you will be given the opportunity to print off a handicap certificate immediately. Each time you enter a new score your handicap may change and you should print of a new certificate.
Q: What happens if I enter a card incorrectly?: A: You should email the Handicap Secretary at: handicapsecretary@strokesgolfhandicap.co.uk with the details you have entered incorrectly and the right details, we will then amend the database.
Q: Can anyone apply for your golf handicap?: A: Yes, we welcome golfers of all ages and from many different countries.
Q: Can I send in my cards and receive a handicap certificate in the post?: A: No, our system is a fully automated internet based service which provides golfers with instant access to a golf handicap certificate. This avoids encountering any frustrating lengthy delays. This also helps to keep administration costs to a minimum, which enables us to keep a very low subscription fee for all subscribers.
Q: Which tee colour should I play off?: A: You can play off any tee colour. When you come to enter your card and the tee colour does not appear simply email us with the score card and we will add the course and tee to our system.
Q: Can I enter my Stableford score?: A: Our system calculates your handicap from Strokeplay, entering Stableford scores would give you an incorrect handicap.
Q: How do I renew my subscription?: A: We will email you prior to your renewal date to advise you that your subscription is due for renewal.