The U.S. Golf Association mandated that all golf clubs must be licensed to provide official USGA approved handicaps to members. The deadline has been extended to July 1. If a golf club is not licensed, members will be prohibited from playing in tournaments that require a USGA approved handicap as one of the entry requirements, which applies to most events here.

To be licensed, a designated club member must attend a certification seminar, complete an application form, and be tested on rules and regulations in the USGA Handicap System Manual. This member is usually club Handicap Chair.

Certification training will be offered by the Hawai'i State Golf Association. The next Handicap Certification Seminar is April 15 at Oahu Country Club, at 9 a.m. New HSGA clubs are especially encouraged. It could be the last opportunity to be licensed by attending a live seminar.

Questions should be directed to the HSGA, at 589-2909 or HawaiiStateGolf.org. A registration form is available online.