MERIT BADGE COUNSELOR
Help Scouts Turn Interests Into Achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a Merit Badge Counselor?
Click register to become a merit badge counselor below.
If I am already a registered leader, do I need to submit a new Scouting America Adult Application to become a Merit Badge Counselor?
No. If this is your first time applying to be a merit badge counselor and you are a registered leader, you must complete the online Merit Badge Counselor application, proof of completion of Safeguarding Youth, any special certifications, and a copy of Merit Badge Counselor Training (preferred but not mandated).
What training is required to become a Merit Badge Counselor?
Merit Badge Counselors need the following training to be approved:
- Safeguarding Youth Training
- Merit Badge Counselor Training
- See Special Certifications for a limited number of merit badges (i.e., NRA certification for Rifle Merit Badge).
- Citizenship in Society counselors must complete the YE Diversity and Culture training found on My.Scouting.org.
Why does every Merit Badge Counselor need a background check?
To help you understand why Scouting America is making this change, the scope of the background check, how to submit forms, and more, we have prepared a list of answers to frequently asked questions with assistance from our National organization. Please review this list and contact your Unit Commissioner or your District Professional if you have additional questions.
- Beginning in 2020, all registered adults will be submitted for an updated criminal background check with rechecks every five years.
- A new, signed Background Check Authorization form must be completed in order to begin this process.
- All units must ensure their adult volunteers have completed these forms before their membership can be processed.
- Volunteers should turn completed forms in to their Pack, Troop, Crew, Post, or Ship for submission with their annual unit renewal.
Once approved, do Merit Badge Counselors need to renew their membership each year?
All current Merit Badge Counselors who are not registered volunteers in a unit, district, or Council at large will need to pay the applicable fee when renewing their membership each year.
If you are not registered in another capacity, please use the Merit Badge Counselor Renewal Payment Form to complete your renewal payment.
Which Merit Badges require special certifications?
All current Merit Badge Counselors who are not registered volunteers in a unit, district, or Council at large will need to pay the applicable fee when renewing their membership each year.
If you are not registered in another capacity, please use the Merit Badge Counselor Renewal Payment Form below to complete your renewal payment.
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