How to Get a Golf License in Germany | Adventures in Golf Season 6

[@markbuckley4902]

Bravo Eric, never seen a man try keep his eyes above 90 degrees so hard in my life. You even did the eye rub.

[@_dboy_]

Came to see if this was commented 😂

[@markbuckley4902]

@@_dboy_ i know right i felt obligated after searching for it. Felt like he needed the support. she should get fore tatted on those swinging them around like that.

[@sean9820]

Absolute artwork!!

[@edgelord8644]

@@markbuckley4902 Bruh ?😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@The.Original.Potatocakes]

Yea she’s got some cannons!

[@lenny3330]

"we are germans, and in germany you need a license" If you had to summarize a country and it's culture in a single sentence, this is it.

[@ToolforOffice]

Ha

[@paulsj9245]

Replace license by rules to put it in a nutshell. BTW, Proud to have less traffic deads, less gun deads, less school massacres... Proud to have less mortality in childbirths. Probably also less golf accidents...

[@ja4897]

Dude just say you don’t understand social growth and move on.

[@justonemori]

@@paulsj9245 and yet nothing of the many millions of dead due to the worst racism in history, keep it classy Germany!

[@paulsj9245]

@@justonemori Alas, these were in the (somehow distant) past which ended 76 years ago, and I quoted facts of our current societies. BTW: Godwin's law: You lose!

[@eliasboman1108]

Interesting to hear you speaking about Sweden having a lot of golfers, because we are required to undergo training and obtaining a license in order to play as well.

[@stoffiize]

@Skratch Golf: I love your videos and watch mostly all of them. To my person - I am from Austria, went through the PGM program at Ferris State, lived in the US a long time and am now a PGA teaching professional in Bremen, Germany. Since I know both (pond) sides of the golf industry I would like to comment on this video from my perspective. First of all the concept of a "private" club over here versus in the US is a totally different one. As an American watching this you might think that all german courses are privat club with extremely high entry fees, gated areas, valet & locker room service as well as a high end golf carts with freshly clean towels and two bottles of water. This is as far from the truth as it can be. I would say that 98% are public here - only the way the clubs are governed is different - its more of an association then a club which is always a none-profit organisation. The amount of real public courses is rapidly growing as-well where you don't need a Platzreife. The Platzreife concept has been cleared up correctly in the second part. From a PGA professional stand point I have to say that the what we call the "beginners course" leading up the the Platzreife is a good starting point for any golfer. Basic rules, as-well as golf technique is explained. Pace of play, course maintenance and safety issues are explained and testet in the end. Every golfer should at least have a rough understanding of the game before heading out. On top -of it the club management is happy with knowlageable members out there and the professionals have a breeding ground for future students. And yes - the germans like to do things right - they are very particular about many things which in my case is good - germans love to take lessons. I would have like to see more of that standpoint in the video as-well. Platzreife is not a hazard - it help people with the entry of the game and is also not set up by the government. BTW - Platzreife is also in other countries like Austria, Swiss and many others. On the other side do I miss golfing in the US. Driving golf carts, having beer or two and simply having fun comes a bit short over here. The handicap is the reason for that. Constant progress is important - the question "what is your handicap???" is always #1 when meeting other golfers. It is what you are it seems like. Anyways - I love your videos and I usually do not comment ever but I feel like I had to comment here to set things in perspective. We all want to grow the game, make it younger and make it RGC-like. Believe me.....I wish it would be much more like that here but we are working on it!!!!! Cheers Christoph

[@eddiebellamy7605]

Hey fellow Bulldog! I too went to FSU but I didn’t study PGM

[@paulsj9245]

IBTD - I dispute the definition of "public"! I have yet to find a public = "öffentlich, operated by a municipality etc." golf course here - there are quite a lot of public soccer fields but no such golf courses AFAIK. These are probably all in private hands = Vereine (clubs) or commercial entities, KGs (LP), GmbHs (LLC) etc. owning the ground, organising service and maintenance, and they MAY have a non-profit extension as a members organsation. I, for instance, am not a club member but a client of a GmbH (strictly profitable) which is a member of DGV and owns the course. Oberhausen may be much more chill&cool than traditional clubs but they still require the same prerequisites to play their "big" course. In their words, "einen anspruchsvollen Par 35 Platz für Handicapspieler". The courses are "public" only inasmuch they usually aren't gated or "members only", the public is allowed to enter. Most of them have no "butler" services, but you'll find amenities like fresh&free towels in the locker rooms. Oh the locker rooms! Today some/many of them have short "academy" courses with no prerequisites like knowledge or membership - sort of "public", but the core "championship" courses have strictly limited access, for members of German golf clubs showing proper skills = Handicap on their membership cards. Foreigners may be welcome as guest players.

[@CamMacMastermusic]

From what I read there is a major opportunity for you to create the fun experience that you miss from the US. It’s not that one group of people is any better than the other it’s about freedom and the ability to do whatever you want, your way ! Within reason and while Being responsible for your actions.

[@GJ-jx3md]

There are private courses, where only members and their guests play i.e. Centurion GC. There are private member's clubs where you can buy a greenfee, so they are open to the public subject to HCP restrictions or club constitution. This is the equivalent of almost all German clubs. Then there are publicly owned courses. Look up who owns St Andrews links and you will see it is owned by Fife Council ( in Germany like a Landkreis). There it is restricted to ability if you can play such courses as the Old Course, but the Strathtyrum is unrestricted; you just turn up or book a time and play. All the club's in St Andrews i.e. The R&A, the New Club, St Rules, all have no or very limited playing rights as the members must buy from the council a season ticket if they intend to engage in normal weekly play. There are also publicly owned clubs, operated by various councils throughout the UK. That is the true meaning of publicly owned.

[@hiemsx]

Wenn ich Platzreife als Anfänger (in Österreich) machen will, muss ich vorher schon mehrere Stunden Kurs machen oder reicht es einfach nur den Kurs bei der Platzreife zu besuchen? Bin Student und es ist so teuer ;( Danke und liebe Grüße!

[@anthonyjay1810]

I have a USGA handicap and when I moved to Germany it was very easy for me to get my platzreife. I just scheduled a lesson at the local club and asked the pro about it. I think it helped that I have a low handicap but they had no problem giving me the platzreife that day.

[@tomikorkeamaki36]

We have the same protocol in Finland, called Green Card. It's a 4 hr lesson and you have to be a member of any golf club in order to play. Most of the public courses are par 3 and just a few holes. We have some pay-and-play courses where you can play without the Green Card but you have to play with a person that has one. I'm lucky enough to have that kind of course quite near my hometown and golf has really took me away. Thanks for the great show, really amazing work👍

[@coopdivi]

This is the second Skratch golf video I have watched, and your relaxed style, off-beat interesting content and extremely high production values have earned my subscription. Bravo!

[@mussey123]

I’m jealous of people just discovering Erik and AIG. Enjoy your viewing friend 🤌🏻

[@legendenzo123]

Here in the Netherlands you also need a license at most courses. It includes passing a theory exam with rules about etiquette and general rules of golf. The german license seems easy in comparison!

[@joshpatterson1999]

Being Scottish I wouldn’t mind it if there was a test that forced people to learn the rules and how to act on a course

[@florianbagnoli8237]

It is the same here in Germany. You have to pass both a theory test and a playing test

[@metalheads-golf]

Leek idd iets makkelijker. But still for safety and slow play prevention some knowledge and skill test is not bad at all in my opinion. 🤘🏻😎🤘🏻

[@julienarrijs]

Same in Belgium! Theory and practice exams before being offered the possibility to be affiliated to the federation, which you need to play any course in Belgium + being an active member in one club.

[@finkbraugg]

Same in France, you need what we call a « green card »

[@Andeyh]

This is nuts, i live about 15 minutes from that Top Golf. Been there the first time 3 months ago, have since started getting coaching and my Platzreife. Tons of younger people joining country clubs because of Top Golf, it literally creates a new hype in our region. Insane.

[@Spare84]

This is very similar all across Europe, I believe. We have a theoretical exam, a practical exam and then need to score under 36 before being allowed to play freely.

[@Wildest_Wahoo]

Under 36?! I’d never be allowed to play 😢😂

[@fredr8159]

Same in Switzerland as other viewers mentioned. When I was about 20 I wanted to start playing golf but I simply could not afford any membership. Without being member in any club it was almost impossible to play golf. So the license and a membership can be quite an obstacle for young people. Now I‘m 40 and I finally picked up golf again and did my license. I’m a member now in a decent club, but I sometimes regret that I didn‘t play for such a long time.

[@diogeneslantern18]

It's absolutely stupid and unnecessary, and it's an indictment to perceived European elitism. In all golfing powerhouse countries the professional bodies support growing the game at grassroots level. You have initiatives like Little Kids Golf and Drive Chip & Putt to start people golfing at a young age - not to mention, a large number of golf clubs allow school teams to play golf in the afternoons for free.

[@magerquark6833]

ja ist bei mir genau so gewesen. 2 jahre driving range bis ich auf den verdammten platz konnte.😂😂

[@fredr8159]

@@magerquark6833 😂 genau

[@magerquark6833]

@@fredr8159 das ist ja echt schade das du erst mit 40 anfangen konntest. ich spiel seit ich 16 bin und bereue es das ich nicht vorher damit angefangen habe.

[@johnnymac2201]

The two golf clubs in this video are actually very inexpensive to be a member at. About the price of 2 greenfees a month. For that price, I don't see having to be a member an obstacle.

[@akivarubinstein9648]

That's right girl, in Arizona we're all about having fun while playing golf!!!

[@niklasroos]

Same system in Sweden and a lot of other European countries. When I started playing 18 years ago I had to take one written test on etiquette, a test on golf rules and a playing test. During the last couple years the rules have been relaxed quite a bit to get the license and I cannot say I am a fan of it. If people have no idea how to act on the course it could potentially be dangerous, but the real problem I see is slow play. I much prefer the German system over the American. Not the rule about the tee though, as that is just dumb. In Sweden they changed the name from ladies and men's tee to just call it by the length of course. So tee 59 would be 5900 meter length. And you can choose whichever one you want and there is a slope rating for all the tees for both men and woman.

[@ArtVandel]

My golf course here in Germany has ratings for all tee boxes. So it's not a rule. What we lack here is tee boxes for children. My question to you is: can also choose the tee box in a tournament in Sweden?

[@patts6153]

Thx Chewiechu i was just about to comment about we have the same system in Sweden but you beat me to it.

[@thomaskaarup5461]

It precisely the same in Denmark. The 'intro classes' gives you a nice introduction to the game, other players, rules and basic training. Pretty much to avoid tom dick and joe to run around swinging away, destroying the course ect. running around a golf course stupid drunk, well, properly the american way

[@nickmckenna2801]

Why do you think it should be the law? Why not just a rule of each course, then people can go to the course with the rules they like.

[@j.w.matney8390]

Another great video Erik. I love learning about different cultures. I think anybody that has played behind a group that doesn't know or ignores golf etiquette would favour a license requirement. I also like how the Scots will kick you off the golf course if you can't get around in 3 hours.

[@ja4897]

Exactly! And with limited land in Europe and how dangerous a golf ball can truly be, I absolutely believe in this concept.

[@j.w.matney8390]

Forgot to add-and that is walking, no carts. Explains why you don't seen any obese Scottish golfers.

[@GJ-jx3md]

Despite the German licence, the etiquette part is far from perfect. It reflects German culture and in general although Golf in Germany and Scotland is played according to the same rules, German golf is a completely different culture. Frankly, it is nausea if you are an experienced Scottish golfer or similar and you play golf here. Loads of cheating, slow play, and as one interviewee mentioned a virtual caste system, although it is getting marginally better as the clubs have to compete to replace the aging membership with new blood. It's golf but not as we know it.

[@petertruman8003]

Thank you firstly for this video. It sheds a lot of light on how the game is run throughout the world. Excellent work! I agree with your utter astonishment with how the game is run there. I'm from southeast England and I have an abundance of courses to play. I think that some of the best players come from having access to sport, be it Athletics, Football (Soccer), Rugby etc! To exclude the masses is to hinder progression. Just think that if all of Germany had as much access to golf as most of the world then the Ryder Cup would be a different tournament altogether.

[@diogeneslantern18]

For sure. The negatives far outweigh the positives of this silly requirement. It's no mistake that the world's best golfers come from countries where golf is both accessible and actively supported at grassroots level.

[@petertruman8003]

@@diogeneslantern18 100% I'm a man from a working class family. Just as an example we have Andrew (Beef) Johnson on the golf tour. A pure product of our easy access to the game in England. I can't afford a full membership but get out and play when I can. Sport is a hobby and should be as you say, as accessible as possible.

[@touristguy87]

dude, the entire video was a joke, couldn't you tell from the way that he shows up at all these clubs and does these interviews looking like he just walked out of the Seattle woods? Like he spends his time playing chess at the public parks in Manhattan? Like he's a refugee from St. Elizabeths Mental Hospital? And the poor German schlubs all had to take him seriously. He shows up at any decent course in the US looking like that, they'd show him where the greenskeepers' shed is.

[@IcePlays]

@@touristguy87 Is this the first of these videos you've seen?

[@12dougreed]

They are knobs mate , in Germany there are so many snobs in certain sports

[@robertoalvarez2777]

Dude! I’m captivated by your content! BRAVO Erik and staff!

[@jordangladden7749]

Incredible video. Thank you very much for exposing us to some incredible golf experiences. Now I have to add golfing in Germany to my bucket list of things to do in Germany.

[@jarrodwafer1928]

Thanks for this video Eric. My wife is German and she keeps telling that I need a license to play golf and it baffles me. Now I have any idea of what I need to do to golf in Germany. Thank you.

[@alexblue04]

Watching this as a German is really funny. I first became aware of our "Platzreife" when I did a high school year in Canada. They just laughed at me and I couldn't really understand why. Playing golf was and still is so expansive in Germany that it just made sense to me that you need a playing license. I'm a big advocate of courses like Oberhausen. I know the club. The atmosphere is chilled and what you get with the membership is amazing (two clubs and three courses that are not your "typical" golf courses - build into an old horse racing track and on the grounds of an old coal mine). We definitely need more of these clubs to attract all different kinds of people. I'm also really looking forward to checking out the TopGolf in Oberhausen!

[@charliesmithers7663]

As an avid golfer from the UK who likes to play abroad I'm interested to know if I would need a Platzreife to play in Germany as a tourist?

[@chestermicek]

You know, Alexander Bordan, that you sound cool enough to make a video that catches the spirit of a German Top Golf location. You, Germans, have the best beers in the world, so I'd expect a broad variety to be sold at the Top Golf: moreover, I am enjoying a fantasy of the sausages & bread that could be enjoyed there. Hitting golf balls with friends while enjoying a few beers & a sausage sandwich sounds so 21st century German. Make the video, dude.

[@touristguy87]

It's even more funny if you watch it as Sideshow Bob.

[@nielavable]

@@charliesmithers7663 If you can show a membership card of a club in the UK, that's fine. It's enough to proof that you're able to play. Generally, most clubs will look the other way for foreigners that are on a golf trip. If you don't have a membership I would recommend to call the pro shop ahead to make sure you're not turned away. Generally, I would expect most courses to be happy to let you play.

[@ArtVandel]

@@charliesmithers7663 I was afraid that people get exactly this impression watching the video. As in other countries on some courses you have to prove a certain handicap. The Platzreife-licence is only for absolute beginners.

[@stephancondermann440]

Great Video! I life in Düsseldorf and play the course on a regular basis. So amazing and funny to see German-Golf and our Region through your eyes...and I totally agree with you. Düssledorf is the perfect sice and a great place to enjoy life!

[@Mad-Mo]

Ich think its important to know the Golfrules very well because i was hit from a Golfball on the head last holiday … Platzreife is a good way to educate beginners …

[@bartvanhoof6278]

Catching up on old videos ... have only watched the intro stroll ... Rudi Voller curls, Birkenstock sandals, ripped jeans, suede leather jacket, washed colour to the film ... hello 70s/80s Germany vibe. Great work by the research department. :)

[@tomblackwell7555]

That was a good watch! It’s also the same in Denmark and Belgium. You need a Golf Association card to play as its a privatised sport. Think it should be more public to make it accessible to more people. You might find the next Jon Rahm because of it.

[@alexiscasteels3853]

Hi Erik, Nice Vid ! Come to Belgium and you'd be amazed of the tests to be done prior to your first game on the course. First of all you need to be a member of a Golfclub, which will provide you of a Golf Liscense number, offering international insurance and other stuff. Not cheap by the way. You can then start practicing on the range. After that you're obliged to take a few lessons with a pro/teacher, then you need to pass a technical test (stroke, chip, put) taken by the pro/teacher. If you succeed you then have to go for a round on the course under a pro's supervision, who will determine if it is ok to follow the next steps. In the mean time you have to do some studying of the golf rules and pass for a theoretical exam (minimum score to pass the test is 80% on 30 random questions on rules and etiquette), which will allow you to practice on a 9 hole course, only in the golfclub you're playing. Only after 2 extra rounds (1 theorethical and 1 practical on seperate dates) under supervision of some established club members teaching good golf practice and etiquette, you're allowed to do your practical exam, where you need to achieve a minimum stableford score of 14 on the 9 hole course. Now you're ready to start playing at a HCP of about 50... This takes on average for most players about 6 months or more. In theory you could obviously do this in a much shorter time, but as most of us are weekend players.... So if think Germans have heir rules 🙂 Cheers ! Alex

[@crickethero007]

Thanks for Doing this. I’m a kiwi living in Dusseldorf and golf with a mate from England. We had this exact experience and was really cool to see in your film

[@robertpaas797]

Love it, also i love how you see "my City". So great you liked it here!!!

[@easysteezy58]

THIS NEEDS TO BE EVERYWHERE!!!! I just got paired up with 3 brand new golfers the other day, and... I shit you not they showed up with ONE CLUB EACH. I felt so bad for the group behind us

[@tAkg-bk3qt]

Thx for coming to germany Eric. We have a growing enthusiastic golf scene, also in the crossgolf game.

[@BennoSwe]

Hope you can get to Sweden to experience the "Public nature" of golf culture here. We do have similar system in Sweden, most golf courses requires to have a "license" to play. Swedish Golf Association has been working to develop a system that is easier and focusing more on the core competences in Golf rather the all the "know-how" and etiquette that has been required before. I did not know the percentage of golf players in Sweden was that high... :)

[@seanjones2456]

19:19 I love all your videos but I have a special fondness for this one.

[@henrylewis5902]

Might be my favorite episode yet

[@Davidzuring]

This is so similar to how they handle golf in The Netherlands, thanks for showing us, great video!

[@joshpavelich5235]

Im an aircraft mechanic. I just want to say that I love seeing those guys working behind you in the opening shots of you in the United hangar. I've been working when people came in for photos/videos and just working around them. It's so funny for me to see this because when I'm working its like "omg get tf out of my way I'm trying to do stuff here" but to see it in a video it looks so authentic and natural. Just so funny to see the other perspective for once. Anyway great video keep it up!

[@FoxGoalie]

Are you kidding me? :D My first thought when this video started talking about Düsseldorf and Golf courses being unavailable to players without Platzreife was "I have to tell the Story about one of my best friends getting his Platzreife after a year of us playing together on a truely public course in Oberh...!" And then Kevin came around the corner. :D GC Oberhausen's open course really helped him getting an appetite for Golf. Even if it's a rather short course it helped him to get to know the ins and outs of Golf and let us already start playing together before he got the Platzreife. After a summer without a license he got one in not even a day (basically just taking the theoretical test). Even though we didn't choose GCO as our home club, we still like to go there once in a while. All around very nice, casual club.

[@FlopShotsForDays]

The “right hand” tip has literally changed my golf game. I have so much more control. As they say in Germany - “Danke schön”

[@DubSun33]

Another great video shedding light on another unique cultural aspect of this great game.

[@efletcher94]

I can certainly vouch for the accurate description of Arizona golf!

[@bohnigolf8740]

I just got my Platzreife in October. So stoked to finally be able to play the real golf courses next year! Awesome video by the way!

[@tomski6811]

I learned to sail in the UK. Moving back to Germany I quit sailing. Need a licence to sail in Germany. The Platzreife made me take up golf a couple of years later.

[@Shweaty7]

see the thing with bar ranges like top golf is that almost everyone is interested and wants to go. they look insane from the outside, especially at night. The idea of drinks food and a small arcade fits most family outtings. They did some covid stuff that was easy when i went once and youre already in your own bay. Heaters, TVS and games, tracking numbers, etc its all very appealing. for a decont golfer its a place to kinda show off and see your numbers if you never get to with equipment.

[@mg08gark]

Some courses around the world have a minimum handicap for players which isn't a bad thing. Especially if they are really busy and I like the idea of giving new golfers a base to play from but a licence must surely hinder the games growth.

[@mitchycplays1118]

How are peoples handicaps supposed to drop of courses in their area don’t allow them on the course due to high handicap. Literally what’s wrong with golf

[@MrFreddy112]

@@mitchycplays1118 If you are a member at the club, or just pay a monthly fee for playing without a membership rules don't apply. Its mostly for guest at harder and more busy course to keep pace of play. Same thing for St.Andrews or most of the high level courses in Europe. I can understand that, even if I am not the biggest fan. Luckily more and more german course loosen the rule and often a hcp of 36 or 32 is only requiered during the high frequency tee times.

[@eduarddv00]

@@MrFreddy112 this is sort of a self fulfilling prophecy. if you have tons of golfers playing, a lot more courses would be built. when you have a lot of courses, peak frequency/crowded tee times becomes less of an issue

[@MrFreddy112]

@@eduarddv00 Fair point but membership cost at most german course is quite affordable and we have a 6 hole course playable without the Platzreife, but very few non golfers play it. As a university student I only pay 35bucks a month for a full membership. Its not like the dues in private clubs in the US.

[@MrFreddy112]

@@eduarddv00 And the issue with popular or nice courses presists. We have courses in our area nobod plays not even for a 10buck greenfee because they are not well maintained and boring where every hole feels the same just with a different yardage. You can't just build courses and expect people to play, its a process that is already going in Germany. You need golf to be more fun and casual, like RGC is meant to be but you won't change traditions over night.

[@chamrynum]

Well.. I guess I have to make another cup of coffee and put off getting to work this morning! Thanks EAL

[@flozimmi1034]

I‘m from Germany and I think the golf game and coulture sounds so much more fun and just cooler in America!

[@oregonNYC]

As a relatively new golfer, I never would have taken up the sport if there were barriers like this. I golfed my first 18 when my buddies needed a 4th and just told be to come have fun. I got the bug and have taken up the sport and golf all the time now. If I needed to get a license just to hit a ball with a stick I never would have gotten into it. Seems preposterous and snooty, it’s just a game

[@fusionenvironmentalsolutions]

Seems like a way to gate keep the game. Definitely limiting its growth there whether people want to admit it or not.

[@theindooroutdoorsman]

Exactly. If there's players having serious etiquette issues, that's what the course staff are for. Get them involved and let them handle it. This is for money, Germany is using golf to tax people and the German people are just allowing it.

[@rubenlievens2680]

Its not as much about gate keeping, it has more to do with people who don’t know the first thing about golf going on a course and destroying greens, tea boxes and causing slow play among others. In your case you playing with people who knew how to play golf so if you did something wrong they would be able to point it out.

[@oregonNYC]

@@rubenlievens2680 that is solved with a 5 min pamphlet on the rules. If you mean divots, good and bad players make divots.

[@rubenlievens2680]

@@oregonNYC I am talking about damaging cups, putting carts and bags on the green, raking bunkers. Things you know but not think about twice. As well as slow play. I you an avarge need 9 strokes to finish a hole your gonna slow people down.

[@fishbowl925]

What a great episode. I think it is a very good idea. During COVID lockdown, here in Australia, golf was one of the few sports we could play. The course was packed with exceptionally slow players with no idea of etiquette. Upside? Found heaps of brand new balls every round😜

[@The.Original.Potatocakes]

Here in the states we couldn’t even go outside and play golf during lockdown! Not even by yourself!!!

[@fishbowl925]

It was mad, they would leave a new pro v sitting just off the fairway, they weren’t watching where their balls went. You would find up to 4 a round.

[@cameronunderhill9131]

MAJOR Anthony Bourdain vibes. Good on you Erik for bringing culture to the forefront of these videos.

[@mikeknaus6105]

Stationed in Germany with the US Army and played all the base courses, but didn’t know Germany required their citizens to have a platzreife. Educational. 👍🏼

[@stephencolor2010]

The shots of the architect look great

[@suntzuvii1154]

Same here. I am German and I play golf for four years now, and it never occurred to me that Platzreife is a thing in Germany (and Austria) only. Dang :-)

[@trolyoly4727]

Another fantastic video by this guy.

[@PulpDogg]

Awesome video. The algorithm recommended it. I actually first hit a golf ball at the Lausward driving range. Yeah, the Platzreife is a bit of a weird concept - but I think the course leading up to the exam teaches you the basics of the golf course. Haven't played in quite while though. Want to get out more on a course in the future.

[@tobbetob2695]

You mix up the difference between public and private. I would say that the majority of the courses in Germany are open to play for anyone with a golf handicap. But they are started and runned by private initatiative. When you play a course in Scotland sometimes you need a handicap and a membership in a golfclub in your home country, it's the same in Germany and for example Sweden, where 90% of the clubs wants to see a handicap certificate in order to play.

[@loadedvideo]

Very cool. I thank the courses I learned on here in the U.S. in my 'learning' of the game and it's etiquette.

[@TheDroneExperiment]

At long last! Thank for you another gem EAL and the RGC team!

[@crystalJaanus]

Switzerland is the same and when I first started I was shocked, not just he two tests but also the price tag. As in Germany most courses are private but I do not know of any, outside of practices areas, where you would not need both PR and a club membership. Now I think it helps the first time golfer and the pace of play. It takes a lot of time and is pretty expensive. Swiss people are known for their lack of patience, so anyone slowing down the game is complained about excessively. As for numbers it is increasing but private course and costs are the main growth stoppers.It is a sport that is seen as an elites sport and for snobs, though not the case. Great reportage!

[@J_ONeal]

As an Arizona native, I can say that golf cart, booze, music, and more booze is exactly how I learned to play golf.

[@owenbuchanan620]

The only way !

[@0Architectdude0]

Arizona golf shall never be touched. I don't care if every round is 5 hours, the culture is too precious to be altered.

[@logannator26]

Exactly how it should be. I can still remember my first round with a bag of hand-me down clubs. Getting dragged out to the course by a couple of buddies who, for obvious reasons, were much better at golf than myself. Having the music and the booze flowing was the only thing that kept my spirits high for the first couple years while my swing matured!

[@carramrod8232]

How we do it here in TX! You can’t walk, it’s not even an option in 105 degree heat. So ride and booze

[@craigratio]

I learned with clubs and balls. The booze came after.

[@buenoblanco]

First 18 hole club in US is a course is Downers Grove, IL. It's the initial Chicago Club. Original 5 of the USGA course. Home of the out of bounds rule, because a farmer would take pot-shots at the golfers. The new club is very private, but the original location is with most holes the same, public and lovely.

[@dimasveiga]

great show, very strange but informative about golf in Germany

[@christianblumner5456]

Thank you for this video, I’m from Germany and I got my Platzreife in October. It’s strange for a beginner golfer, that you have to do this. I would’ve loved just to go out on a course and try everything by myself, but somehow I’m happy for this system, cause you’re getting instructions right from the beginning. But I have to say, that there are way more courses here in Germany, that you can play without the Platzreife. Just go there, pay your Greenfee and head to the tee box. And to make that sure, when you’ve reach an official handicap, nobody is interested in the Platzreife certificate anymore.

[@touristguy87]

"But I have to say, that there are way more courses here in Germany, that you can play without the Platzreife. Just go there, pay your Greenfee and head to the tee box." Yeah well unfortunately the guy in this video kept getting told that he had to have a Platzreife to play golf in Germany and he kept believing them. Either that or he just wanted to take the test to see what it was like.

[@swiper1131]

Another banger. Great video, EAL!

[@dominikaltheimer9992]

Moved from Germany to the US in 2015 and started playing golf in 2018. Never played golf in Germany and watching this now I am not surprised. It seems very stuffy compared to the experiences I have had in the US so far.

[@juliusdrescher1431]

Been waiting for this one!! It’s my home course Erik is playing at (GSV) and unfortunately I missed the RGC Team as I was on vacation! Saw his Instagram story and thought, I know this one haha. Hope you enjoyed it! :)

[@liene9199]

We call this a GVB in Belgium, as a licence to play. They used to start at 36, now it’s 54. They make special entry comp for ‘rabbits’ up to whcp 36

[@davidbyck]

Well done. This was very interesting. Thank you

[@SighterFilm]

Great Documentary, and a brilliant swing in the story. Bravo!

[@tgswoosh23]

OMG, I was always thinking when will we finally get a Topgolf in Switzerland… This video just gave me so much hope! YES thanks Eric :)

[@justonemori]

buy a few hula hoops and throw them out on the driving range, you'll save hundreds of dollars

[@tgswoosh23]

@@justonemori thanks but I am not planning on using a Topgolf facility as my main driving range for practice but rather to have a fun night out ;)

[@mineeco9677]

As a German living abroad since ever... I recognised the "German way" I guess it's part of our social heritage. The "Platzreife" though is quiet interesting since there is not only the Sport aspect of Golf, there is also the "Rules". And this is an essential part of the game. Knowing and understanding those help to be a better player.

[@paulsj9245]

It's part of the cast system separating "golfers" from "non-golfers". Both membership and Platzreife were (are?) partly used to check out the prospective player from a sporting AND social circle POW.

[@12dougreed]

The rules are easy to learn, it's all about keeping the sport for the knobs. That is the reason Germany is not that good at the game

[@12dougreed]

Just to add It's all about keeping the trash out that's all. You know it , so no argument I would go as far as saying that the Düsseldorf Frauen in the video prove the point

[@irishkitty7257]

Fun video. Nerve racking test.

[@markfaulkner666]

Really liked this episode. Very interesting !

[@hjm33]

What a great video!! Really enjoyed!!

[@zachbarker9193]

This was fascinating. Truly.

[@stephenhenderson9535]

Another awesome episode thank you guys

[@991.1]

Being German i am actually a fan of the Platzreife, what was not covered in the video is the fact that with a Platzreife, you kind of make sure that beginners are actually able to play the 18 holes making sure 1. They know the core rules & etiquette to maintain the tradition 2. Play at an adequate speed 3. not destroying the course since its super expensive to maintain.

[@fitnesstrainer9393]

Can you apply for the license at any course? And is it free to apply?

[@dcsaint8775]

Yall are just flat out control freaks in every aspect of life. From mandates, to golf and everything in between.

[@johnnymac2201]

@@fitnesstrainer9393 Yes, you can get your platzreife anywhere. But, if you're a beginner, you will need lessons first, and you also have to pass a written test on the rules and etiquette. The test price varies from course to course and pro to pro. There are lots of clubs, like Oberhausen in this video, that offer packages of lessons including the tests for about 200 Euros.

[@fitnesstrainer9393]

@@johnnymac2201 Holy shit thats insane. I would rather have to just book an earlier tee time to avoid beginners or offer to help them if I ran into them on the course than have to take a written test and pay over 200 euros for lessons on how to behave on a golf course. I have a grandmother who will give you golf course etiquette lessons for free

[@lanesniffin730]

It’s actually genius. Here in the states we have to join private club to avoid 6 hour rounds and douchebags that destroy the course. Cheers.

[@halospawn0]

loved this episode a ton

[@calalos]

I live in Spain, and here you need a license too. It includes insurance so if you hit something or someone you are covered by it. The way I did it was taking some clases with the club pro and he summited the application. Not difficult at all.

[@johnhoppe9265]

by the way, the „Platzreife“ is not a law, not by federal Government. The german Golfers Association implemented the system and most clubs adhere to it. Golf courses could decide to not require a Platzreife, as they often do for „short courses“. As the Golf courses are quiet full (lot of players for the number of golf courses), the Platzreife is not such a bad thing, as it keeps speed of play at a decent level (if it is not slowed down by people looking for balls for 15 Minutes….)

[@djparra41]

I was thinking to myself that this is an awesome idea. Especially since the pandemic it doesn’t matter where you go it’s 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 hours just to get a round in. I would prefer to play 36 in that amount of time. I played a round with two buddies on Monday with an afternoon tee time and played the front nine in an hour caught up to people on the 12th, those last six holes took almost three Flippin hours.

[@kevinwagnair4482]

stimmt genau 😁👍

[@edtollway3730]

I think this idea of Platzreife is brilliant. I’m a member of two clubs in Australia and get frustrated by feral guys showing up on the weekend having no idea about the sport at all.

[@zdea777]

but why a license? why not a handicap measure?

[@johnhoppe9265]

@@zdea777 well, at the end that’s the same thing. The platzreife means you can play a 54 (which is 3 over Par), plus you have some basic knowledge on etiquette and how to play in a decent speed.

[@fragge2926]

Here in Sweden golf is big, as said in the video. We have pretty much the same licence requrement as Germany and that doesen't seem to stop us from playing.

[@emje2999]

Love the Tudor GMT Erik. :)

[@sixldoesstuff5566]

I heard about this license on the r/golf Reddit just a few days ago, and I was baffled about this new weird thing that the Germans decided to do. Great video Erik

[@mooseknuckle07]

Here in Belgium you have to take a written multiple choice test (open book). After that you have to do your first practical test which is on the practice short course, 3 holes par 3’s with a maximum of 15 strokes. Once you’ve past that you get a 54 handicap, then you have to do the real exam on the course to get your actual handicap. Basically you can’t do it in one day….. and this is why it puts off a lot of people. I went to Spain to go play on the lovely courses, and I asked do you need to see my golf federation card and they were looking at me like what are you on about? Just pay and have fun 🤷🏼 if they would do it like this every where most clubs would see a big increase in income for sure

[@ZaxDrumsandMore]

Very cool to see Erik here in Germany!! I play here with an older handicap card from the US. But I am not a member anywhere though!! I can only play by paying greenfees no membership.

[@JamesBond-f3f]

We have a similar issue in Italy, to play on the course you must take an exam about rules and etiquette, but luckily in Italy all courses are open to public( there’s only one private club in all of Italy)

[@timstark6944]

Cool Episode!! Well done again

[@mhN1nja2un366]

😮 I’m 2yrs older than Eric?!? Love this show.

[@saveriopangallo305]

In Italy we need a license too, but to get it, you have also to pass a written test on the golf rules. We have also to pay 75€ every year to the "Federazione Italiana Golf" wich include the insurance. A couple of years ago it was 25€, then was rised because Rome was selected for the Ryder cup to rise some money to finance the event. I bet that after it, the amount will remain the same... The worst about golf here in Italy, is that during the weekend, almost everywhere, if you want to play before 2 PM, you must play in a contest, adding around 20€ to the cost of the green fee.

[@TomsDinosaurOpinion]

There are some good and bad takeaways from the German system. I know, I taught golf there for 10 years. The fun of the game is really hard to capture because you're under pressure to play 3 over par per hole for 9 holes from day one! After they've ponied up your membership fee! You'll also need to fork out the money for lessons, a set of clubs and all the accessories. However! The Platzreife also incorporates a rules and etiquette exam. This is the part I really like, and it's something that we can learn from in America. The German's know the rules of golf (inside & out) and more importantly, they really understand golf etiquette. For example, there are no "Mulligans" or 5 hour rounds! Oh! And you can't play fivesomes! BTW - There's also an exam to get your fishing or boating license, among other hobbies.

[@CheddarTeddy]

As an American living in Germany for 10 years that plays lots of golf I can vouch you’re 100% accurate! Riding horses is another one of those hobbies that requires a license haha

[@TomsDinosaurOpinion]

@@CheddarTeddy Right!

[@touristguy87]

This all means that you're likely to take the test on a shit course, something with the German equivalent of a 60 course-rating. Something where you REALLY suck if you can't shoot triple-bogey over 9 holes. If you make the course too hard, then you run the risk of having people give-up on even trying. Then they take a trip to the US, to any golf-course anywhere (especially a hotel course) walk into a pro-shop, the cashier asks them if they need clubs, he pulls out a $2500 set of Titleists, takes their credit-card, points to a cart out on the side and tells them to have a good round .You guys probably have little to no clue what you're missing by playing golf in Europe vs the US. All that you have to do here is keep pace with the group ahead.

[@CheddarTeddy]

@@touristguy87 I grew up my whole life and still go back all the time to play in the US. I personally didn’t have to do Platzreife because I had a USGA handicap card and it transferred right over and got my “license” that way. It’s a good system here. You rarely get held up during a round whereas in the US we have a ton of weekend or once a year golfers that can tend to slow up rounds or simply have crappy etiquette What’s good about the high handicappers or anyone for that matter is once they get to three over on a hole they pick up

[@TomsDinosaurOpinion]

@@touristguy87 Keeping pace (Golf Etiquette) is definitely not the case in America. I know that from plenty of bad experiences of 5+ hour rounds over here. And then there's the mulligan's and not playing the ball as it lies. Oh! And you can turn in a scorecard, playing alone. I just think that having a better knowledge of the Rules of Golf and Golf Etiquette would benefit the game over here. BTW - The German's typically have to pass their playing test on their home course. Hard or Easy!

[@klaslindstein2252]

When i got my license in Sweden in early 2000, I found that was very good system. It's not like it stops people who really want to play to play. Who wants players who hit 200 shots, dont let anyone play through, and do dangerous things on the course?

[@theindooroutdoorsman]

Course staff handle that in the US. You go to the pro shop and notify staff and let them handle it. A license won't stop an asshole from being an asshole. It will gate keep the sport and discourage people from ever trying the sport.

[@Hoogee4]

@@theindooroutdoorsman what evidence do you have for that? Sweden has more players per capita than Scotland and Australia. Eventhough we have half their golf season due to the freezing conditions.

[@williamguthrie5613]

Great vid! Probably my favorite!

[@21Swayzee]

Ohh man, did you guys get a few new cameras? Crisp! Pic quality looks even more amazing!

[@IG_Bananasgolf]

Golf Club Ottobeuren close to the Alps also has a public 6 holes!

[@titanvision.studio413]

The light in germany is so different, compared to the us. Definetly not cinematic. Still great video ;)

[@rikuluoma3785]

Hi Erik, great video! Where is the knit sweater from that you have on you in the last part of this video?

[@brendandevlin6328]

It's the same in Denmark where I played for many years. They don't want you to hack up the courses and have some knowledge of etiquette and playing ability. So basically everywhere in Europe, excluding GB & I, where golf and par 3/pitch and put are as common as muck :)

[@adamryan5538]

Great video, didn't realise this was the story in Germany. I've wanted to play there for a few years, the quellness resort is on my bucket list. The drinking booze and playing isn't a thing here in Ireland (where I live) or England (where I'm from). It seems to be an American thing. This also makes me want to play in the states as my two of my favourite things are golf and beer

[@martinmann1041]

Go to Thailand! No license required, plenty of really good courses, most of them public, good weather (maybe a bit hot sometimes but nice during the shitty months in the northern hemisphere) AND just about every course has a bar every third hole… And you can usually have an excellent and inexpensive meal at the clubhouse.

[@thomaspurdy2973]

@@martinmann1041 Canadian here...you had my interest during the shitty months and we have about 7

[@ridegriff50]

Unfortunately it is an American thing.Just golf would be just fine🙂

[@oswjim]

to own a license to play golf is also a requisite here in Spain -- as in Germany -- is implemented by the RFEG (Spanish Golf Federation) and no just for regular golf courses, here "short" courses are mostly adhered to the RFEG as well -- in order to have an official handicap, you must own a license -- also, to have a license carries an insurance policy ... any golf related accident while playing will be covered by the insurance associated to your license

[@peterandresen328]

Fantastic stuff 😊

[@kevinculp3872]

Not saying I don’t like it, but the channel has become more “television quality” and I’m just not used to it. Ive been with the channel since the “let’s wing it days” and I dug those vibes. Nevertheless still beautiful, still incredible, still a fan and I will continue to watch every single episode. Thanks, peace.

[@mige1334]

Christian Althaus is - in my opinion - the best golfcourse designer in germany. His design philosophy is so great. My No.1 Course in Germany is GC Föhr. The map is laying in front of Erik and Christian!

[@darioalfredomichielini5850]

The laws in Germany are way stricter, but you need an exam to play in Italy, too. It's not about performance, but how you treat the course and if you know the rules. When golf courses are not as many as they are in the US or the UK, you have to put some kind of barrier, otherwise people would flock the few courses in bunches and in some cases spoil fun with slow play or not taking care of the course. As I said, the German card is way tougher than here. But that is Germany ;)

[@MUY-BN]

Played golf in 1985 at Baden Baden Golf Club in Baveria, Germany. Course opened in 1927. I was informed in advance about restrictions to play. Told them I was a member of Cherry Hills and a 18 handicap, both of which were far fetched! Paid fees, rented clubs, and played as a single. They were not overly friendly, but sent me on my way. Difficult course for a beginner, but playing golf in Europe was on my list of things I will probably never have a chance to do again. Looks like I was correct in my thinking!

[@nielavable]

Hate to dissapoint you, but Baden Baden is in Baden-Würtenberg, not Bayern... ;)

[@MUY-BN]

I should have said Black Forest, Not Bavaria. It does border the Bavarian region but not in Bavaria. Why would I be disappointed?

[@nielavable]

@@MUY-BN just kidding...