How to Earn the Rank of Scout

Otherwise known as Joining Requirements

Page 4 of the Boy Scout Handbook

• Meet the requirements: any 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 of age.
  
  
• Submit a completed Boy Scout application and health history signed by your parent or guardian.
  
  
• Find a troop near your home.
  
  
• Repeat the Pledge of Allegiance.
  
  
• Demonstrate the Scout sign, salute, and handshake.
  
  
• Show how to tie a square knot.
  
  
• Understand and agree to live by the
  • The Scout Oath.
  • The Scout Law.
  • The Scout Motto.
  • The Scout Slogan.
  • Outdoor Code.
  
  
• Describe the scout badge.
  
  
• With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Child From Drug and Child Abuse .
  
  
• Participate in a Scoutmaster conference.

   When you complete these, welcome! You are a Scout! Your Scoutmaster will give you a certificate of membership, and you can proudly wear the Boy Scout badge and uniform. You may also subscribe to Boys' Life , the monthly magazine that is full of exciting articles for and about Scouts.