Use this simple golf tee selector based on your driver distance, age, and handicap. Eight seconds, no ego.
Start with your average driver carry distance. Multiply that number by about 36 to get a comfortable total yardage, then compare that to the scorecard at your course. Our tee selection calculator does that math for you and adjusts for age, handicap, and how tough you want the course to feel.
If your typical carry is around 200 yards, look for tees under about 5,000 to 5,400 yards. That usually means forward or shorter senior tees. From there, adjust based on how often you’re reaching par 4s in two and par 5s in three.
At 240 yards of driver carry, many golfers score best from roughly 6,000 to 6,400 yards total. On most scorecards that lines up with white or regular tees, or a combo of white and blue if the course offers it.
Distance is the most important input, but age and handicap tell you how consistent you are. Two golfers with the same distance might choose different tees if one is a new player and the other is a low handicap who wants a tougher test. The calculator blends all three to give a balanced suggestion.
It’s not “wrong,” but it usually isn’t fun. Playing tees that are too long means more long irons and hybrids into greens, higher scores, and slower pace of play. Most golfers shoot better scores and enjoy the game more when they move up a set of tees.
Yes, almost always. New golfers benefit from shorter approach shots, less pressure, and more chances to hit greens in regulation. As confidence, distance, and consistency improve, they can slowly experiment with moving back.
Yes. The tool gives you a recommended total yardage and tee color, which you then match to whatever tees are closest on the scorecard at your local course. It works for public, private, resort, and tournament setups.
Any time your distance, fitness, or handicap changes noticeably, it’s worth checking your tee selection again. You can also temporarily move up on very windy, cold, or wet days to keep the course playing fair for your current game.