PGA Membership Classes Overview

Classes of Membership

• Members divided into Active and Non-Active categories based on employment status, relationship with the Association, and membership duration.

Active Classifications (Article V, Section 1)

• Active classifications include Master Professionals and Class A Members, demonstrating varying levels of expertise and roles.

Master Professional

• Requires completion of advanced training and at least 6 years of experience as a Class A Head Golf Professional or Director of Golf.

Class A Membership Categories

• A-1: Head Golf Professionals at PGA Recognized Golf Courses.
• A-2: Head Golf Professionals at PGA Recognized Golf Ranges.
• A-3: Exempt players on LPGA, PGA Tour, or similar tours recognized by the PGA Board.
• A-4: Directors of Golf at PGA Recognized Facilities.
• A-5: Past Presidents of the Association, regardless of current job status.

Additional Class A Members

• A-6: Work at PGA Recognized Golf Facilities, instructing PGA Professionals or supervising instructors.
• A-7: Directors of Golf or Head Professionals at under-construction PGA Recognized Facilities.
• A-8: Assistant Golf Professionals at PGA Recognized Golf Facilities.
• A-9: Professionals in management, development, ownership, or operations at golf facilities.
• A-10: Employed as Golf Clinicians who provide specialized instruction.

Other Class A Categories

• A-11: Administrative roles within the Association or recognized golf associations.
• A-12: Golf coaches at accredited colleges, universities, or junior colleges.
• A-13: General Managers/Directors of Club Operations who meet specific Board criteria.
• A-14: Directors of Instruction at recognized golf schools or facilities.

Retail and Golf Course Management

• A-15: Ownership or management roles in retail facilities focused on golf products, excluding clerk positions.
• A-16: Architects focused on golf course design or management roles in golf course construction.
• A-17: Managers of golf course maintenance and operations, meeting professional standards.

Media and Event Coordination

• A-18: Employed in golf journalism, including editing or broadcasting related to golf events.
• A-19: Executive or administrative roles within golf manufacturing or distribution companies.
• A-20: Roles involved in wholesale sales and distribution of golf merchandise.
• A-21: Coordination and planning roles for golf events on behalf of organizations or associations.
• A-22: Services provided as rules officials for recognized golf associations and events.
• A-23: Club fitting professionals using recognized fitting systems must have the necessary equipment.