Merit Badge Counselor

The merit badge counselor is a key player in the Scouts BSA advancement program. Whatever your area of expertise or interest—whether it is a special craft or hobby (basketry, leatherwork, coin collecting), a profession (veterinary medicine, aviation, engineering), or perhaps a life skill (cooking, personal management, communications)—as a merit badge counselor, you can play a vital role in stirring a Scout’s curiosity about that particular topic. By volunteering as a merit badge counselor, you offer your time, knowledge, and other resources so that Scouts can explore a topic of interest.

Become a Merit Badge Counselor

If you are not yet a merit badge counselor, follow these simple steps:

1. Take Youth Protection training at https://my.scouting.org/
2. Register with Scouting America,  
   • Pick up an application at the local Council Scout Service Center or download an application 
   • Complete the membership application (listing merit badge counselor as the position)
   • Effective August 1, 2023, the BSA will implement the following national membership fees which were approved by the National Executive Committee:

     • $25/yr This fee is for Merit Badge Counselors who are not already registered volunteers.  (Merit badge counselors who are not also registered in a unit position are not allowed to attend overnight Scouting activities/events).

3. Complete the Scouts BSA - Merit Badge Counselor Training on https://my.scouting.org/
4. Complete the Merit Badge Counselor information form indicating for what badges you would like to be a counselor. This form can be picked up at the Council Service Center or download the form here.
5. Return the following forms to the Council Service Center or mail to 1200 East 5400 South Ogden, UT 84403
   • Youth Protection training certificate
   • BSA Adult Application form
   • Merit Badge Counselor information form

Downloads…