Independent Golf Instructor

Beginners, casual and club golfers, juniors (usually through their parents), and sometimes courses or clubs that bring in outside instructors.

An hourly or half-hour lesson fee, plus lesson packages, small group clinics and junior camps. Some facilities charge a range fee or take a share of your lesson income.

• Strong golf playing ability and swing knowledge
• Clear, patient teaching
• Friendly with all ages and skill levels
• Basic scheduling and marketing

• General liability insurance, and check whether the facility requires you to carry it or lists it as an additional insured
• Facility rules: many courses and clubs only allow instructors they approve, so get permission in writing
• Check your city or county for a business license, and your state for sales tax rules on lessons
• Income is seasonal in colder states and affected by weather, so plan for slow months

Startup costs are typically estimated around $300 to $3,000, depending on the teaching equipment you buy, such as video tools, plus insurance and marketing. You teach at existing ranges and courses, so premises costs are low.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $600 to $4,000, depending on how many lessons you teach, your hourly rate and the season. Income can dip in colder states and bad weather, so plan for slow months.

Check with each facility, as many courses and clubs only allow instructors they approve, so get permission in writing. Also check whether they require liability insurance, and check your city or county for a business license and your state for sales tax on lessons.