Updated 2 October 2026
Start with a practice session and a lesson before committing to a full set or a membership. Your first goal is simple: find out whether you enjoy playing.
1. Check the local range
Ask about opening times, payment, rental clubs and any booking requirements. Start with a short iron, a few half swings and a specific target. Keep clear of neighbouring bays and never retrieve balls from the range.
2. Learn with a coach
A beginner lesson can help with grip, setup and safe practice. A group course can also introduce you to playing partners. The number of lessons needed varies; there is no fixed timetable for becoming course-ready.
3. Understand course access
Requirements vary by country and course. Ask about handicap limits, membership, acceptable pace and beginner sessions before booking. Short courses and pay-and-play facilities can be useful starting points.
Starting in Sweden
Grönt Kort involves both a knowledge test and a playing test, followed by approval from a club. For adults and players aged 13 or older, the playing test normally requires at least 18 Stableford points over nine rated holes using handicap 54. A paid weekend course is not itself the national requirement. Children aged 12 or younger have adapted options.
Check the Swedish Golf Federation’s current requirements and arrange the playing test with the club first.
4. Buy only what helps you play
A few correctly sized clubs, inexpensive balls and comfortable footwear can be enough to begin. Confirm the club’s dress rules. A fitting can help with length, weight and shaft choice; a premium price is not a guarantee of a better fit.
5. Play a manageable first round
Choose suitable tees and a quiet time with an experienced partner. Keep up with the group ahead, be ready when safe, and repair pitch marks. In a practice round you can pick up and move on; in a competition or handicap round follow the relevant scoring rules.
Next: your first set, planning a budget, and the searchable rules guide.