Turning Your Golf Passion into a Career: A Guide

Question
I have been playing golf again recently after a five year break and I am looking to get into it full time and to make money out of it but don't know the easiest or best way to do so? Thanks in advance. Ps why can't you accept prize money in some competitions?

Answer
HI Lewis;

My best suggestion is to do these two things FIRST.

1.  Talk with a Local Club Professional at your favorite club about this.  Ask them the ups and downs of the business.  Personally I would only have this discussion face to face.

2.  If you are satisfied, contact the PGA of America and find out the process for turning professional and becoming a member of the PGA.

I am only being brief here due to the complexity of the subject.  I suspect that you would not want to read a book (e-mail) to get your answers.  there are many areas of the business that you do not see that are important for your growth as a professional.  

Be realistic yet expect pit falls, it is a great career, yet it does have it's issues.

With reference to the question about accepting money.  Please reference ...

http://www.usga.org/rules/amateur_status/Amateur-Status/

Hint: Diligent Professionals are also rules experts.

I hope this helps.