NTRP Ratings
How do your skills measure up? Check out how to gauge yourself against the local competition!

United States Tennis Association (USTA) leagues (which involve competition) utilize the NTRP Rating Categories to place like skill levels together. HRCA will also use these categories for lessons, drills, and other activities. Tennis lessons for beginning players will be classified as “Beginner.”

NTRP Rating Categories
National Tennis Rating Program (NTRP) The NTRP is a nationally used method to classify tennis skill levels. In order to play in any USTA Leagues or tournaments you must have a current NTRP rating.

2.5: This player is learning to judge where the ball is going although court coverage is weak. They can sustain a rally of slow pace with other players of the same ability.

3.0: This player is consistent when hitting medium paced shots, but is not comfortable with all strokes and lacks control when trying for directional intent, depth or power.

3.5: This player has achieved improved stroke dependability and direction on moderate shots, but still lacks depth and variety. This player is starting to exhibit more aggressive net play, has improved court coverage, and is developing teamwork in doubles.

4.0: This player has dependable strokes, including directional intent and depth on forehand, backhand, moderate shots, plus the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots, and volleys with some success. This player occasionally forces errors when serving and teamwork in doubles is evident.

4.5: This player has begun to master the use of power and spins, is beginning to handle pace, has sound footwork, can control depth of shots, and is beginning to vary tactics according to opponents. This player can hit first serves with power and accuracy, places the second serve, and is able to rush the net successfully.