World Handicap System
Golf already has a single set of playing Rules, a single set of equipment Rules and a single set of Rules of Amateur Status overseen by the USGA and The R&A. 
In 2020, the World Handicap System (WHS) was released and has unified the previous six international handicap systems into a single system.  The purpose of the WHS is to provide greater enjoyment for all who play the game by enabling players of any ability, from anywhere in the world, to play and compete with others on a fair basis.  The WHS will encompass both the Rules of Handicapping and the Course Rating System (formerly the USGA Course Rating and Slope System) Education Information

What is a Handicap Index?
A Handicap Index provides you with a portable measure of your playing ability that's consistent with how golfers are measured worldwide.
It can be used to track your progress and play a casual or competitive round with any other player.
All players are encouraged to establish and maintain a Handicap Index.

How do I get one?
It's easy!  If there's a course in your area that you play often- get in touch with them.  Chances are they'll be able to set you up at the club on the spot!
The Hawaii State Golf Association is your USGA Allied Golf Association for the Hawaii Region that provides you with this.

Do I have to join a club?
Yes -  but let us explain what we mean by "club."
A club can be public or private, as it just needs to meet the requirements to manage the Handicap Index of those affiliated for handicap purposes.
Every authorized club has a Handicap Committee who is there to help you.  If you have a question or make a mistake while posting a score, reach out to your club.  

I'm setup with a club - now what?
Go play!  Just don't forget to post your score after you do!
Scores from match play, stroke play and team formats where you play your own ball are acceptable -
as long as you play by the Rules of Golf and another person is present during your round!
Before you post - check to see if any hole score(s) exceeded par +5, which is the maximum hole score you can post during your first three rounds.  Once you've posted a total of 54 holes, made up of 9 or 18 hole scores, you'll have a Handicap Index the very next day!
Your Handicap Index is the portable number you take with you but it's not the number you actually use out on the golf course.  Due to varying levels of difficulty amongst golf courses, your Handicap Index will be used to find your Course Handicap for the course you play that day.  

Contact us anytime for any questions on how to sign up. 
www.hsga.golf, 808-589-2909, or [email protected]

Here are some quick documents to read, but for more complete info on the WHS, visit the USGA website, as all updates will be shown there immediately.
WHS - The 5 Things You Need to Know: View/Download
WHS - One-Page Change Summaries: View/Download
Rules of Handicapping Book (PDF): View/Download

Handicap Quiz Link

Hawaii State Golf Association