Boy Scout Joining Requirements

(Scout Badge)

These requirements were revised effective on April 1, 1999.

To see the changes which were made in 1999, Click here.

1. Meet age requirements: Be a boy who has completed the fifth grade, or is 11 years old, or has earned the Arrow of Light Award, but is under 18 years old.
2. Complete a Boy Scout application and health history signed by your parent or guardian.
3. Find a Scout Troop near your home. (To find a troop, contact your local Boy Scout Council.  The Council name, address and phone number can be found on BSA's Council Locator Page.)
4. Repeat the Pledge of Allegiance.
5. Demonstrate the Scout sign, salute, and handshake.
6. Demonstrate tying the square knot (a joining knot).
7. Understand and agree to live by the Scout Oath or Promise, Law, Motto, and Slogan, and the Outdoor Code.
8. Describe the Scout badge.
9. Complete the Pamphlet Exercises: With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet "How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide".
10. Participate in a Scoutmaster conference. Turn in your Boy Scout application and health history form signed by your parent or guardian, then participate in a Scoutmaster conference.