World Handicap System - 2024 Revision Hub
The USGA and The R&A have jointly introduced several major changes to the World Handicap System™. The changes predominantly focus on making more rounds of golf count towards a Handicap Index®. The changes go into effect on January 16th, 2024, in regions where active score posting season extends year-round.
(Active score posting season in upstate NY runs from April 15th to October 31st).
As previously devised, 9-hole scores awaited a second 9-hole round to be paired with, however, with the new change, a second 9-hole round is not necessary–-an expected 18-hole score differential will be calculated based on the 9-hole score. Further, players can post rounds of 10-17 holes and the Handicap System will automatically generate an expected 18-hole score differential.
Additionally, the minimum total yardage for official courses has been significantly reduced (now 1,500 yards for 18 holes), meaning that official rounds can be conducted at par-3 courses and the like.
For a more in-depth look at the changes, explore the resources below.
Overview
- "World Handicap System: Three Key Changes" Article
- Change Summaries for the 2024 Revision to WHS
- Video: New Treatment of 9-Hole Scores
FAQ Pages
- Treatment of 9-Hole Scores
- Treatment of 10-17 Hole Scores (Holes Not Played)
- Reduced Course Length to Obtain a Course Rating / Slope Rating
2024 Publications
- The Rules of Handicapping, Effective January 2024 (PDF)
- Player Reference Guide on the Rules of Handicapping, Effective January 2024 (Flipbook)
Questions? Please reach out to us via email at nysga@nysga.org
