Golf has a layered structure: global rules bodies that write the rules, national associations that run amateur golf and handicaps, regional associations, professional associations, tours and individual clubs. Understanding who does what helps you know where rules, handicaps and competitions come from.
Global rules bodies
Two organisations jointly write and interpret the Rules of Golf, the equipment rules and the rules of amateur status, and oversee the World Handicap System. Read the history of the rules of golf.
National associations
National golf associations or unions typically:
- Administer handicaps and course rating. Read the World Handicap System explained.
- Run national amateur championships. Read amateur golf competitions explained.
- Develop the game: juniors, women and participation.
- Support clubs.
Regional associations
County, state or regional associations organise regional championships, team matches and junior squads.
Professional associations
Professional associations train and qualify club professionals and coaches. Read how to become a golf coach.
Professional tours
Tours organise professional tournaments for men, women and seniors, with their own membership and qualifying systems. Read how professional golf tournaments work.
Clubs
Clubs run local competitions, apply local rules and manage handicap records for members. Read how golf clubs are run.
Other organisations
- Greenkeeping and club management associations.
- Disability golf organisations. Read adaptive golf.
- Junior golf foundations.
How the pieces fit together
| Level | Main responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Global rules bodies | Write the Rules of Golf and equipment standards; run major amateur and professional championships |
| Global handicap framework | The World Handicap System, administered with national associations |
| National associations | Handicaps, course rating, national championships, coaching programmes, development |
| Regional and county associations | Regional competitions, team matches, rules training, junior pathways |
| Professional associations | Train and qualify golf professionals and coaches |
| Professional tours | Run professional events, rankings and player memberships |
| Clubs | Run competitions, manage members and courses, apply local rules |
How rules change
The Rules of Golf are reviewed regularly, with major updates every few years. The process usually involves:
- Research and consultation with national associations, players and officials.
- Proposals published for feedback.
- Final rules announced well before they take effect.
- Education through officials, clubs and online resources.
Read history of the rules of golf and golf rules myths.
How equipment is regulated
Equipment rules limit features such as driver size, face springiness, groove shape and ball performance. Manufacturers submit products for testing, and conforming clubs and balls are listed publicly. Read conforming golf equipment rules and golf club grooves explained.
Who decides handicaps?
The World Handicap System is a global framework, but national and regional associations administer it, and clubs collect scores and manage handicap committees. Read world handicap system explained and course rating and slope explained.
How clubs are governed
Most private clubs are run by elected committees or boards, with a professional manager handling day-to-day operations. Public and commercial courses are run by owners, councils or management companies. Read how golf clubs are run.
How you can get involved
- Volunteer at club and regional events. Read volunteering at golf tournaments.
- Join a committee at your club.
- Train as a rules official. Read how to become a rules official.
- Respond to consultations when governing bodies ask for golfers' views.
Professional golf's structure
Professional golf is run by several tours, each with its own membership, schedule and ranking points. World rankings combine results across tours. Read how golf world rankings work and how professional golf tournaments work.
Frequently asked questions
Who writes the Rules of Golf?
Two global governing bodies jointly.
Who manages my handicap?
Your national association, through your club or an affiliated scheme.
Who runs professional tournaments?
Professional tours.
What does a regional golf association do?
Organises regional competitions, teams and junior programmes.
Who writes the Rules of Golf?
Two global governing bodies jointly write and publish the Rules of Golf, used in almost every country.
Who decides my handicap?
Your national or regional association, through your club's handicap committee, under the World Handicap System.
The bottom line
Golf is run by a network of rules bodies, national and regional associations, professional associations, tours and clubs. For more on rules, read golf rules every golfer should know.