Playing Ability Test

For more information please
Contact Wade Dockery with the Alabama-NW Florida PGA
(205) 621-6401

Target score formula: Course rating X 2 + 15
ie (70.8 x 2 = 141.6 (141) + 15 = 156)
drop decimal…do not round up

** Site charges at each facility covers cart, range and lunch on day of PAT.

The Playing Ability Test or “PAT” is a measure of golfing ability.  It means PGA Professionals have the skills needed to teach and grow the game.

The  36-hole playing ability test for golf is something you must pass if you want to become a PGA Professional.

One of the following must be completed within eight years prior to registering into the PGA Professional Golf Management Program (PGA PGM Program):

1. Pass the 36-hole Playing Ability Test or;
2. Attempt the PAT at least once within the eight years prior to registering into the PGA PGM Program. Within that time frame, shoot one 18-hole score in a PAT that is equal to or less than the PAT target score for 18- holes, plus 5 strokes. Note: Each PAT score has a validity date of eight years.

The 36-hole PAT remains valid during the Acceptable Progress period. In order to pass the 36-hole PAT, you must achieve a 36-hole score within 15 shots of the course rating. For example, if the course rating is 72, the target score for the 36 holes would be 159 (72 x 2 = 144 + 15 = 159). This competition is normally conducted in one day.  Fewer than 20% of those taking the test achieve a passing score, therefore, it is highly recommended that you work diligently on your game prior to registering for the PAT.

Click Here for the PAT schedule and online registration. To register by phone, please contact PGA Membership Services at (800) 474-2776.

Click Here to view PAT policies and procedures.

Scores from the first two individual stroke play competition rounds of a PGA Qualified Professional Tour golf tournament, collegiate golf tournament (Division I, II, III, NAIA, NCCGA and Junior College), PGA National or Section Professional or Amateur Event, a State Open, State Amateur and State High School Championship and 36-hole qualifiers administered by the United States Golf Association or R&A, or AJGA administered events that meet the minimum yardage qualifications for PAT’s may be used to satisfy the 36-hole PGA Playing Ability Test requirement, provided the individual was age 16 or over at the time of participation. Playing Ability Test validity would extend eight years past the date of passing.  Applicants would be responsible for submitting documentation of scores, yardage and course rating to verify Playing Ability Test eligibility, and all PGA minimum standards for the Playing Ability Test must be met. Events must be at least 36-hole events to qualify, and rounds cannot be combined from separate events.  PGA Qualified Professional Tour is defined by a regular and continuous series of events for Professionals accepted at the discretion of PGA of America.

Click Here to send us your scores.