LPGA Golfer Ability Levels

You are a NEW GOLFER if:

• You have not received instruction covering swing fundamentals and the 5 basic shots of golf
• You aren't confident that you can execute the 5 basic shots of golf with consistency
• You aren't sure your practice sessions are helping or hurting
• You have little or no on-course playing experience
• You most often need 10 or more strokes to complete a hole; or you aren't sure
• You are not familiar with the rules and etiquette of golf

You are an ADVANCED BEGINNER if:

• You have some playing experience, mostly 9 hole rounds
• You are gaining confidence in your ability to execute your shots
• You usually need 8 to 10 strokes to complete a hole
• You have some familiarity with the rules and etiquette of golf
• You are beginning to score your rounds and/or track the things you are working on

You are an INTERMEDIATE player if:

• You play regularly, but weekly at most
• You have significant playing experience, including 18-hole rounds
• You can shoot 65 or less for 9 holes, 130 or less for 18 holes
• You know and play by the rules of golf
• You have an established handicap or are considering establishing one

You are a SKILLFUL player if:

• You play regularly, 2–3 times a week
• You can shoot 95 – 115 regularly for 18 holes
• You know and play by the rules of golf
• You keep pace without difficulty
• You have an established handicap

You are an ADVANCED player if:

• You play frequently—whenever, wherever with whomever
• You play comfortably in tournament and match play situations
• You can shoot less than 95 regularly for 18 holes
• You have an established handicap and maintain it faithfully