Online Merit Badge Training

To qualify as a merit badge counselor, you must:	As a merit Badge counselor, I agree to:
Be at least 18 years old.	Follow the requirements of the merit badge, making no deletions/additions, ensuring that the advancement standards are fair and uniform for all Scouts.
Be proficient in the merit badge subject by vocation or avocation.	Have 2 or more persons present at all instructional sessions.
Be able to work with Scout-age boys.	Be registered with the Boy Scouts of America as a Merit Badge Counselor (Code 42).
Renew my commitment annually if I plan to continue as a merit badge counselor.

Prior to taking the online merit badge counselor training, please make sure the registration and application forms are properly filled out and submitted.

Here are the steps:

If you are not currently registered with the Boy Scouts of America and are new to merit badge counseling:

Fill out an adult application to register with the Boy Scouts of America. There is no fee to be a merit badge counselor. In the upper right hand corner of the application where is says "Council/District Position" write in "Merit Badge Counselor". Applications are available from the Orange County Council office at 1211 East Dyer Road, Santa Ana, CA 92705 . This form must be mailed or turned in to the above address.

For administrative purposes, Boy Scouts of America requires all merit badge counselors to register with their local council, by submitting an Adult Registration Application, No. 28-501. If you are registering solely to serve as a merit badge counselor, there is no fee. You may also become a full member of the Boy Scouts of America by paying the $10.00 annual registration fee, which includes a subscription to Scouting magazine. This bimonthly publication will keep you updated on developments in the merit badge program and many other aspects of Scouting. You will also receive The Condor, Ventura County Council's Scouter Newsletter.

Read and study the A Guide for Merit Badge Counseling - PDF (166kb)

Fill out and send to Council office the Merit Badge Counselor Test and Application - PDF (548kb) Note: this test is not required by our District.

Also see alternate Merit Badge Councilor Application.

On the Merit Badge Counselor Test and Application, list the merit badge subjects that you feel that you are qualified for, and the area, work, specialized training, hobby or other that qualifies you for this merit badge subject. Just having a general interest of common knowledge of a subject does not qualify you for approval as a counselor.

Wait! You are not yet a merit badge counselor. Upon approval of your registration by the Boy Scouts of America and the approval of your district advancement committee you will be notified. You are not authorized to act in the capacity of a merit badge counselor until proper notification has taken place.

Note:

An interactive version of this training will be coming soon.