How To Join A Private Club

Q: How many times should I play the course before joining the club?
A surprising number of prospects don't determine whether they like the course until late in the process. Make it a point to play a few rounds, ideally at different times of the year, to see how the condition of the course changes. A course that seems spectacular and fun to play the first time might look a lot different by your third or fourth round.

Q: Do private clubs require tee times, or do most of them allow members to show up and play whenever they want?
Some of the busier clubs require tee times almost every day, especially on weekends, but we're aware of many golf clubs whose courses are often empty, even during peak playing times, including weekends. Many members told us one of the best perks at private clubs is the ability to play golf whenever you want, and often on whichever holes you want. Some clubs let you walk to the first tee unannounced or even jump to an unoccupied hole and begin play there. Maybe you want to hit balls and play five or six holes after work. Mini-rounds can make the cost of a private-club membership worthwhile for golfers who love the game but can spare only an hour or two early or late in the day. Ask about the club's policy.

Q: What other rules might surprise me?
We hear a lot of complaints from golfers about mandatory carts at daily-fee courses, but it happens at private clubs, too. Some require golfers to use (and pay for) a caddie or a cart during peak playing times. Depending on when you play most of your golf, your opportunities to walk and carry your bag might be limited by such policies. It's worth asking about these rules so you aren't surprised later.

Q: Any restrictions on when my kids can play? And what about guests?
Again, policies vary from club to club, but it's common that juniors' access to the golf course includes restrictions. Guests are usually a welcome source of revenue for clubs -- no, your buddies don't play for free -- but there might be limits to how many, how often and what times they're permitted.

Q: So who determines all these policies?
If you're a lifelong public-course player, you might know the head pro at your favorite course, along with a few other shop workers, the starters, rangers and beverage and snack-bar servers. At a private club you'll have more dealings with those who determine how the place is run. The elected board, its officers and president oversee all aspects of the club. Various committees (green, membership, social, etc.) offer assistance and identify potential leaders. The board's main responsibility is to establish short- and long-range direction and policy.

‘"My club has reduced its initiation from $15,000 to $3,000 to attract members, who will not have equity in the club. The club was trying to build up monthly dues income, and it has helped bring in about 50 new members."
-Private club member’

Q: Once I'm a member, what happens when I decide to leave the club? Can I just walk away?
A clear understanding of this process protects your interests. You might be able to walk away whenever you want, but in some cases clubs might require members to pay dues until a new member joins.

Q: What's the difference between equity and non-equity clubs?
An equity club is how most golfers envision a private club: Each member holds a fractional share and a vote in its governance. Those ownership rights might be sold or cashed in upon resignation, often at a higher value. Members of non-equity clubs, like apartment renters, hold no ownership but can belong to the club. In a way these terms are outdated because of the increasing percentage of clubs that have eliminated initiation fees or the eventual return of equity dollars. The club members we contacted for this story referred frequently to for-profit clubs. They often are owned and operated by a management firm.

Q: How hard is it to become a member of one of the top clubs in the country?
It depends on the club. Some attract very good players. Win the U.S. Mid-Amateur, and you've increased your chances dramatically. Other top clubs reward civic leadership or golf contributions. The key is to know members, and have them know you.