You do not need one initially, but you will need to establish one before you can compete for the prize purse in a tournament.   You can obtain one at number of area courses, or the PGT can take care of your handicapping for an annual fee of $29 (a lower than average cost to maintain a current index anywhere).  We use the GHIN system through the Western Pennsylvania Golf Association for our official USGA handicaps, but any official USGA index is accepted.  Going through the PGT is a better solution as we ensure all tournament scores are properly posted for you.  All new members without a USGA handicap are required to submit scorecards (which  accurately represent the game you play) from a minimum of 10 rounds of golf you played in the last 24 months. We will also keep a PGT tounament index that represents your tournament play average and you will play to the lower of the two once established.