Golf exam: Your ticket to the world of golf
- Jan Dietner
- Nov 3
- 3 min read
If you want to play golf on larger courses, you will soon come across the term “golf license.” Many beginners wonder why they would even need an license for a sport they play recreationally.
The answer is simple. Golf is not just about hitting a ball. It is a sport with tradition, rules, and a culture of respect for the course and other players.
The golf license is your ticket into this world. It shows that you know the basics of the game, the rules of conduct, and that you can play in a way that is enjoyable for both you and everyone else.
How to get there? Let's take a step by step look.
Step 1: Beginner Golf Course
First, you enroll in a beginner's course, where you learn the basics under the guidance of a professional instructor. You learn how to grip the club, basic swing movements, and various hitting techniques.
Golf is a lot of information, so don't be shy. Ask questions and take the opportunity to explain things to you in a simple way.
Step 2: Joining a golf club
Once you have completed the introductory course, join a golf club.
It's important to remember that a golf club is not the same as a golf course. There are more clubs than courses in Slovenia, so choose the one that suits you best. Consider the location, amenities, and the company you'll find there.
Step 3: Lecture on the rules of golf
When you become a member, the club forwards your information to the Golf Association of Slovenia. They will then send you an email about a golf rules lecture. The lecture takes place once a month online via Zoom and lasts approximately an hour and a half.
There is no test at the end, which is a great relief for most. The main goal is to learn the rules of the game and basic behavior on the field.
Tip: Practice the work of a master
The old saying goes that practice makes perfect.
If you want to progress, you will need to spend quite a few hours on the practice field. Even during the course itself, take time for additional practice. Each repetition will help you feel more relaxed on the field.
Step 4: Advanced golf course
Once you've mastered the basics, the advanced course comes in. There you'll learn more complex shots and get to know the situations you'll encounter on the course.
These are bunker shots, thick grass shots, driver shots, and shots from different lie positions. These skills give you the confidence to play the game independently and without major problems.
Step 5: Golf License test
You can take the test at most golf courses. You play nine holes accompanied by a teacher or an experienced golfer with a handicap lower than 36. Their job is to confirm that you can play the game independently and at a reasonable pace.
The result is not important. No one expects you to play at a professional level. What is important is that you understand the game, respect the rules, and that your game flows smoothly.
Conclusion
The golf license is the first step on the path to a real game. It's not scary, but it's an important part, as it confirms your knowledge and readiness to play in the right environment. At the same time, it's a great motivator, as it guides you to master a solid foundation on which to build your game.
If you want to start your journey, you can sign up for beginner/advanced courses or an individual lesson and join me in the world of golf.
