Bowling Handicap Calculator

League handicaps level the playing field so bowlers of different averages can compete fairly. Enter your numbers below to compute your handicap.

Your average

Your current league bowling average.

Handicap basis

The league's basis score (often 200, 210, or 220). Ask your league secretary.

Handicap percentage

The percentage the league applies (commonly 80%, 90%, or 100%).

Today's scratch score (optional)

Enter a game score to also see your handicapped total.

How bowling handicap works

A handicap gives lower-average bowlers a per-game bonus so they can compete with stronger bowlers. The standard formula is:

Handicap = (Basis − Your Average) × Percentage

For example, with a 150 average, a 220 basis, and 90%: (220 − 150) × 0.90 = 63. That bowler adds 63 pins to each game. If they bowl a scratch 165, their handicapped score is 228. A bowler whose average meets or exceeds the basis gets a handicap of zero. Most leagues don't give negative handicaps.

The exact basis and percentage vary by league — always confirm yours with the league secretary. Learn the underlying scoring in how scoring works.