How to Become a PGA Teaching Pro

Being a teaching pro is a very rewarding career. You get to enjoy the game you love every day and help golfers with their games.

There are many teaching pros out there, and most of them have gone through the PGA program. The PGA program is run by the Professional Golfers' Association.

Becoming a PGA Pro

1. You must be 18 years of age or have a high school diploma to be eligible. Have proof of U.S. citizenship or be a registered alien.

1. You must meet the PGA eligible employment requirements. To be considered eligibly employed, you need to be employed full time in an eligible position for at least six months at the time of registration.

2. The PGA has a full list of jobs that qualify as eligible employment on its website (see References). For example, golf coach, golf media and assistant pro are all eligible jobs.

1. Pass the PAT (Player Ability Test). The test is over two rounds of golf and each PAT has a different target score. Shoot below the target score to pass.

1. Register to be an apprentice by filling out the apprentice registration form on the PGA website (see References).

2. You must verify your employment, pay all apprentice fees and buy your Level 1 kit to become an apprentice. Registration fees average $500 and your Level 1 kit costs $560. Once you become an apprentice, you are enrolled in the PGA program.

1. Begin your Level 1 work. There are three levels and you have two years to complete each level. Complete your Level 1 kit and send it in to be reviewed.

2. When the kit is accepted, you take the Level 1 checkpoint test. Level 1 testing consists of Rules of Golf, Tournament Operations and Golf Club Design and Repair. Level 2 consists of Analysis of the Swing, Customer Relations and Business Planning. Level 3 consists of Swing Concepts, Inventory Management, and Supervising.

1. Complete 36 hours of work experience credits along with the level kits. You receive twelve credits for a four-year college degree and six credits for a two-year college degree. Earn one credit per month by working under a PGA professional. After completing your work experience credits and Level 3, you are a PGA member.