Handicap index is used before you get onto the course. Handicap index is used to figure your course handicap, which then tells you how many strokes you get.
The scores you post with your club are used to calculate your handicap index. Each golf course should have posted a course handicap chart. You'll find the slope rating of the tees you plan to play, then find your handicap index, and the chart should show you the course handicap to which you'll be playing.
Depending on the slope, the course handicap might wind up being more than or less than your handicap index. But the handicap index itself is what gets you to the course handicap.
Back to Golf Handicap FAQ homepage
