The NTRP stands for the National Tennis Rating Program and was established in 1978 by the United States Tennis Association (USTA). It is designed to be easily administered, non-exclusive and provide better on-court compatibility. This rating is from 1.5 - 7.0 with increments of .5. By following a general description, you can find out what ranking you belong in. The rating can be self-assessed. See below for GLTA rating equivalents.
NTRP
GLTA Equivalent
Description
1.5
D - Beginner
Has limited experience and is still working primarily on getting the ball into play.
2.0
D - Beginner
Needs on-court experience. Has obvious stroke weaknesses but is familiar with basic positions for singles and doubles play.
2.5
D - Beginner
Learning to judge where the ball is going although court coverage is weak. Can sustain a short rally of slow pace with other players of the same ability.
3.0
C - Intermediate
Fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots, but is not comfortable with all strokes and lacks execution when trying for directional control, depth or power. Most common doubles formation is one-up and one-back.
3.5
B - High intermediate
Has achieved improved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate shots, but still lacks depth and variety. Exhibits more aggressive net play, has improved court coverage and is developing teamwork in doubles.
4.0
B - High intermediate
Has dependable strokes, including directional control and depth on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate shots, plus the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots and volleys with some success. Occasionally forces errors when serving and teamwork in doubles is evident. Rallies may be lost due to impatience.
4.5
A - Advanced
Has mastered the use of power and spins and beginning to handle pace, has sound footwork, can control depth of shots and is beginning to vary game plan according to opponents. Can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place the second serve. Tends to over hit on difficult shots. Aggressive net play is common in doubles.
5.0
Open - Highly advanced
Has good shot anticipation and frequently has an outstanding shot or attribute around which a game may be structured. Can regularly hit winners or force errors off of short balls and can put away volleys, can successfully execute lobs, drop shots, half volleys and overhead smashes and has good depth and spin on most 2nd serves.
5.5
Open - Highly advanced
Has developed power and/or consistency as a major weapon. Can vary strategies and styles of play in a competitive situation and hit dependable shots in a stress situation.
6.0-6.5
Open - Highly advanced
Typically has had intensive training for national tournament competition at the junior and collegiate levels and has obtained a sectional and/or national ranking.