Note: the Scout Badge is NOT considered a "Rank" by the BSA. There is no Board of Review.

The Charter and Bylaws in Article X, Section 1, Clause 6, states"

"Ranks. There shall be the following ranks in Boy Scouting: Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. The requirements shall be those authorized by the Executive Board and set forth in official Scouting publications. Eagle Palms may also be awarded on the basis of requirements authorized by the Executive Board and set forth in official Scouting publications."

Boy Scout Joining Requirements

This is a very simple badge to earn and should be earned soon after the boy joins a troop. Most boys who have earned their Arrow of Light will be ready immediately for the Scout Badge. By doing the requirements for the Scout Badge, the boy learns what advancement is all about. He should be introduced to the: learn a skill, practice a skill, be tested on a skill philosophy that is the foundation of all rank advancement.
He will have his first Scoutmasters Conference. In this way he will understand how to advance in the Troop.

1. Meet age requirements: Be a boy who has completed the fifth grade and be at least 10 years old, or be 11 years old, or have earned the Arrow of Light Award and be at least 10 years old, and be 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.
4. Repeat the Pledge of Allegiance.
5. Demonstrate the Scout sign, salute, and handshake.
6. Demonstrate tying the square knot (aka the joining knot).
7. Understand and agree to live by the Scout Oath (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". How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide
10. Turn in your Boy Scout application and health history form signed by your parent or guardian, then participate in a Scoutmaster conference.

---

Source of information on this page is The Boy Scouts of America National Council, Scout Badge Requirements or Scout Joining Requirements.

Last revision was made on: October 31, 2008 by David Exter