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Merit Badge Counselors

Earning Merit Badges gives a Scout the kind of self-confidence that comes from overcoming obstacles to achieve a goal. Through the merit badge program, a Scout also learns career skills, develops socially, and may develop physical skills and hobbies that give a lifetime of healthful recreation.

The steps to follow in the merit badge program are outlined in the current Boy Scout Requirements. This book lists the requirements a Scout meets to earn each of the more than 100 Merit Badges that are available. Scouts must be tested individually, and they must meet all the requirements.

A merit badge cannot be taken away once it has been earned, provided the counselor is a registered counselor for the Merit Badge.

In order to become a registered Merit Badge Counselor you must fill out the Merit Badge Counselor Form as well as the Boy Scout Adult Application. You need to fill out both even if you are already registered as an Adult Leader. Despite having to fill out an adult application there is NO FEE for becoming a registered counselor. The forms will then be reviewed by your District's Advancement Committee. If there are no objections you will receive a confirmation letter informing you that you are approved to start helping scouts earn merit badges. All Merit Badge Counselors are required to annually renew. This is usually done with a letter that is sent to the counselor asking them to review their information and make sure it is still accurate.

A list of counselors for each district is availabl at your local scout service centers.