Lost your GHIN number? Don’t worry, it happens to every golfer at some point. It’s like forgetting where you parked your cart – a minor annoyance, but easily solved. This guide will walk you through all the simple ways to track down your number so you can get back to posting scores, tracking your handicap, and getting on with your game.
What Exactly is a GHIN Number?
Before we go hunting for it, let's quickly cover what this number is and why it matters. GHIN stands for Golf Handicap and Information Network. It’s the official handicap service provided by the United States Golf Association (USGA), and it’s the most widely used system in the country.
Think of your GHIN number as your personal ID in the world of golf handicapping. It's a unique, 7-digit number linked to your profile, a history of all your scores, and ultimately, your official Handicap Index®. You need it to post a score after a round, look up your friends' handicaps, and sign up for tournaments. Without it, you’re flying blind when it comes to measuring your progress and competing on a level playing field.
So, now that we know what it is, let's find yours.
The Top 5 Ways to Find Your GHIN Number
There are several easy ways to look up your number, and most of them take less than a minute. We'll start with the most common methods first.
Method 1: Use the Official GHIN Mobile App
This is by far the most convenient way to access your number and anything else related to your Handicap Index. If you have a smartphone, the GHIN app is the best tool at your disposal.
- Step 1: Download and Open the App. If you don't already have it, download the official "GHIN" app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Step 2: Look for the Login Screen. When you open the app, it will ask you to log in. You have two options here: you can either log in using your email address and password, or you can use your GHIN number and last name. Since we don't know the number yet, we'll try something else.
- Step 3: Use the "Forgot Login Information?" Feature. On the login screen, you should see a link that says something like "Forgot Login Information?" or "Look Up an Account". Tap on it.
- Step 4: Search by Email or Name. The app will then ask for either the email address associated with your GHIN account or your first name, last name, and state. Using your email is usually the quickest way. After you enter your details, the app will find your profile and display your GHIN number.
Once you’re logged in, your GHIN number is almost always displayed prominently on the app’s home screen, usually right below your name and Handicap Index. We recommend writing it down or saving it in your phone's notes for quick reference.
Method 2: Check the GHIN.com Website
If you don't have the app or prefer using a computer, the official GHIN website works just as well. The process is very similar to using the mobile app.
- Go to www.ghin.com in your web browser.
- On the homepage, look for the login section. Just like the app, there will be a link for golfers who can’t remember their information.
- Click the "Lookup Your Information" or similarly phrased link.
- You’ll be directed to a page where you can search for your profile. You can typically search using one of three options:
- By email address.
- By your GHIN number (which we’re looking for).
- By your name and state affiliation.
- Choose to search by your name or email. Fill in the required fields and hit "Search." Your profile, including your full name, club affiliation, and GHIN number, should appear in the results.
This method is perfect if you’re at your home or office computer and just need to find the number quickly to register for an event online.
Method 3: Ask Your Club's Pro or Handicap Chair
Sometimes, the old-school way is the best way. Every golf club that offers GHIN services has a Handicap Chairperson and/or PGA Professionals who have administrative access to the club’s roster. They can look you up in a matter of seconds.
Don't ever feel sheepish about asking! Golf pros get this question all the time and are always happy to help. Simply walk into the pro shop or give them a call and say something like, "Hi, I seem to have misplaced my GHIN number. Could you please look it up for me?"
They’ll ask for your name, look you up in their system, and give you the number right then and there. This is a foolproof method that requires no technology on your part.
Method 4: Use the Score Posting Kiosk at Your Club
Most golf clubs have a dedicated computer or kiosk set up in the clubhouse or locker room for posting scores. This little station is another great resource for finding your number.
- Walk up to the kiosk and wake it up if it's asleep.
- The main screen will usually provide options like "Post Score," "Handicap Lookup," or "Partner List."
- Choose the option to look up a golfer. You’ll usually be able to search for yourself by typing in your last name.
- A list of golfers with that last name will pop up. Find your name, and you’ll see your GHIN number listed right alongside your Handicap Index.
This is especially handy when you’ve just finished a round and want to post your score but can’t remember your login details for the app.
Method 5: Search Your Email Inbox
When you first signed up for a GHIN through your club, you likely received a welcome email. This email almost certainly contains your GHIN number. It is also common for your local golf association to send you digital handicap revision updates via email.
Open your email client and try searching for terms like:
- "GHIN"
- "Handicap Index update"
- "USGA"
- The name of your golf club or state golf association (e.g., "SCGA," "Met Golf Association")
Digging through old emails might take a bit more effort, but you might just find a digital breadcrumb that leads straight to your number.
What If I'm Not Sure I Even Have a GHIN?
This is a common position to be in, especially if you belong to a casual league or club where the perks of membership aren't always spelled out. You might have had a number for years without realizing it.
The first thing to do is try the lookup methods described above. Head to GHIN.com or use the app's lookup feature and search for your name in your state. If a profile with your name and home club pops up, then you have one! Problem solved.
If you search and nothing comes up, your next step should be to talk to the organizer of your league or the head professional at the course you play most frequently. Ask them if a GHIN membership is included with your dues. They will be able to confirm and, if necessary, help get you set up.
I Don't Have a GHIN – How Do I Get One?
If you’ve completed your search and confirmed you don't have a number, getting one is simple. To get an official Handicap Index, you just need to join a golf club licensed by the USGA.
This doesn't mean you need to join an expensive private country club. You have options:
- Join a Club at a Public Course: Most daily-fee and municipal courses have their own "golf clubs" or associations you can join for an annual fee. This fee usually includes your GHIN service.
- Join an eClub: If you don't have a single "home course," you can join an online eClub. These are virtual clubs authorized by your state or regional Allied Golf Association (AGA). They allow you to get a handicap without being tied to a specific facility. To find one, simply search online for “[Your State] Golf Association” and browse their website for membership options.
Once you join a club, they will provide you with your brand new GHIN number, and you’ll be ready to start tracking your game.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, finding your GHIN number is straightforward once you know where to look. Using the mobile app or website is typically the fastest way, but a quick call or visit to your club’s pro shop will always get the job done. Keep it handy, as it's your key to engaging more deeply with the game.
Once you have your number and start posting scores, the next step is using that information to play smarter golf. Tracking your handicap is great, but understanding the decisions on the course that lead to those scores is how you really improve. With Caddie AI, you get an on-demand golf expert in your pocket that provides course strategy before you swing and analysis of your performance after your round is over. We’re designed to help you make better decisions, avoid the simple mistakes, and play with the confidence that comes from knowing you have a sound plan for every shot.