The process of becoming a PGA member is pretty convoluted and might even come across as a bit baffling, but there are more than 28,000 PGA of America members, so there are a lot of people out there who know what they’re doing!
Since I’m about start the process of earning my PGA Certification, I thought I’d document the step-by-step (including costs) as a way to clear up any confusion. The “Steps to Becoming a PGA Member” can be found online at pga.org, but after that you’re on your own.
In order to become a PGA member, you first have to become a registered apprentice and go through the PGA Professional Golf Management (PGA PGM) Program 2.0. There are 11 steps, and it takes up to three years to complete them. Step 1 is pretty self-explanatory. To register into the PGA PGM Program 2.0, you have to register or re-register as an apprentice and complete a Background Check.
Cost: $58.99
If you’ve been convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or equivalent, you should submit documentation to the PGA Membership Department to determine eligibility for PGA Membership prior to proceeding. Per the PGA Code of Ethics, certain transgressions are cause for permanent preclusion to PGA Membership.
Next On the Tee
Step 2: Qualifying Level. Applicants must complete three online courses: Introduction to the PGM and the Golf Profession, PGA History and Constitution, and Rules of Golf 1 as well as pass a knowledge test based on the three courses prior to registering as a PGA Apprentice.
Cost: $200