How the golf Green Card works

Many people thinking about getting into golf have probably heard of the Green Card. But what does it actually mean, and how does taking it work?

This article aims to clarify how it works for anyone who wants to get a Green Card. It's also good to know that the rules for the Green Card have changed quite a bit in recent years, so if you ask a friend who got their Green Card a number of years ago, they may not be up to date on the current requirements.

What is the Green Card?

A Green Card means that you have a Golf ID and a handicap (hcp) of 54 or lower. So everyone who meets these two criteria has a Green Card.

Put simply, the Green Card can be compared to golf's equivalent of a driver's licence in traffic. The requirements for obtaining hcp 54 exist so that you feel safe and comfortable on the course when it comes to the game itself, golf etiquette and the rules. It's also a guarantee that every player meets the basic requirements for safe, enjoyable and fair golf.

How do I get a Green Card?

The short answer to this question is that you need to do the following:

• Pass a knowledge test in Min Golf, which means at least 80 percent correct on a total of 50 theory questions about the game and golf etiquette.
• Pass the practical requirement of an approved playing test, which means playing nine holes on a golf course that is slope-rated and getting at least 18 points on handicap 54.0. The marker for the round must have a Golf ID and be an active member of a Swedish club.
• Obtain a Golf ID.

Once all three of the above steps are completed, your Green Card must be activated by a golf club.

To pass the various parts above, most people need some form of guidance and education. You get this by taking a Green Card course either in person at a golf club or by taking a digital Green Card course, e.g. with us at Golf4u.

Does it matter if I take the Green Card via an in-person or digital course?

No. It doesn't matter whether you take the course in person or digitally — you take the same tests to get the Green Card. And a Green Card gives you the same rights regardless of whether you took the course digitally or in person.

To get a Green Card you can, for example, take a traditional in-person course or take it digitally via Golf4u.se. Regardless of the method, you get the same rights. A Green Card is valid for life under the current rules.

However, there are of course differences in how an in-person and digital course are structured. A digital course can be started at any time, is more time-efficient and usually at a lower cost. An in-person course usually consists of a number of group sessions (at a set time and place) together with a coach. Which suits best can vary a lot between individuals. If you take the course digitally, it's an advantage if you know someone who plays golf and whom you can go out and practise with.

Can I play on all courses if I have a Green Card?

In addition to your Green Card you also need an active membership in a golf club. After that you're free to play both in Sweden and abroad. However, individual clubs can have their own restrictions regarding, for example, playing hcp for green-fee play. This may apply at certain times when there's high demand. If you're visiting a golf course as a guest, it's always a good idea to check with that particular club what their rules are.