Uniform & Ranks

Click here for a printable PDF

The Boy Scouts of America has always been a uniformed body. Its uniforms help to create a sense of belonging. They symbolize character development, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Wearing a uniform gives youth and adult members a sense of identification and commitment.

SCOUT

This the joining badge, earned by completing the requirements to join Boy Scouting. The Scout badge has a brown fleur-de-lis on a tan background. The badge is awarded when the boy demonstrates a rudimentary knowledge of the Scouting ideals such as tying a square knot and knowing the Scout oath, law, and slogan.

1. TENDERFOOT

This is the first rank. A Scout can work on the requirements for the Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks at the same time, but each rank must be earned in sequence. The badge is awarded when the Scout completes requirements in the areas of Scoutcraft, physical fitness, citizenship, personal growth and Scout Spirit.

2. SECOND CLASS

This is the rank above Tenderfoot and below First Class. A Scout can work on the requirements for the Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks at the same time, but they must be earned in sequence. The badge is awarded when the Scout completes requirements in the areas of Scoutcraft, physical fitness, citizenship, personal growth and Scout Spirit.

3. FIRST CLASS

First Class has similar requirements to the preceding two classes. The number of Scouts achieving First Class within one year of joining is still one of the key measures of unit effectiveness. Studies have shown that if a Scout achieves First Class within a year of joining, he typically stays in the Scout program for at least three years.

4. STAR

Star is awarded when the Scout serves actively in the troop, team or crew in a position of responsibility for at least 4 months; performs at least six hours of community service; and earns six merit badges (four of which must be required for Eagle Scout rank).

5. LIFE

In addition to the requirements of Star, Life requires an additional five merit badges (three of which are required for the rank of Eagle), to make a minimum total of eleven merit badges. Also, the scout must pass a scoutmaster conference, and board of review.

6. EAGLE SCOUT

This is the highest rank attainable in Boy Scouting. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than 2 million young men. Requirements include earning a number of merit badges and demonstration of Scout Spirit, service and leadership. This includes an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads, and manages.

EAGLE PALMS

After achieving Eagle Scout, a Scout can earn Eagle Palms. The Scout must remain active for 3 months and complete 5 additional merit badges for each palm. The first palm is Bronze, the second is Gold, followed by Silver. A Scout can continue to earn Palms until their 18th birthday.

Report abuse