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Steps to Become a Boy Scout

Many parents want their sons to become boy scouts because of the prestige of the program, the opportunities it provides for children to learn unique skills and the friendships that are often formed through the program. Becoming a Boy Scout requires some effort from parents, as well as from the boy, but many people find these steps worth the reward.

Age Requirements of Boy Scouts
- Boy Scouts of America has three different groups, based on the ages and the abilities of the boys in each group. Cub Scouts, the group younger than Boy Scouts, is where many Boy Scouts begin. Eagle Scouts, which is reserved for extremely dedicated young adults, is made up of boys above the age of 18. You must be between the ages of 11 and 17 in order to be a Boy Scout, unless you have earned the Arrow of Light badge, in which case you can join Boy Scouts at age 10.
Earn the Arrow of Light Badge
- The Arrow of Light badge is defined by the Boy Scouts of America as "the highest rank in Cub Scouting and the only Cub Scout badge that may be worn on the Boy Scout uniform." When your son has finished Cub Scouts and has earned his Arrow of Light badge, he will be able to join the Boy Scouts, even if he has not reached the age of 10 or began the fifth grade.
Joining a Scouting Group in your Area
- Before your son can officially become a Boy Scout, you will need to locate a Boy Scouts group in your area with a Scoutmaster who is in charge of leading the boys and organizing their trips and activities. Many schools and community centers offer Boy Scout programs, so check with the schools in your area to determine whether or not your son can join Boy Scouts with his classmates and peers. You can also use the BeAScout resource to find Boy Scout troops in your area if your school system does not have one in place.
Participating in Scouting Events
- Once your son is enrolled in a Boy Scouts program, he will also need to participate in the activities of the group in order to be considered a legitimate member. It is not enough to simply be accepted into the scouting program. Going on camping trips, volunteering with the troop and working hard to earn the badges are all requirements of actually becoming a Boy Scout. Encourage your son to go to as many activities as his schedule will allow.

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