Aquehonga District AdvancementStaten Island, Greater New York Councils

Become a merit badge counselor

Counselors share what they know, from a profession to a lifelong hobby, with Scouts from any unit. You don't need to belong to a troop to serve.

A merit badge sash beside a Scout uniform shirt with an Eagle patch

How to register

  1. Take Safeguarding Youth training

    Complete Safeguarding Youth training (formerly Youth Protection) online at my.scouting.org, creating an account if you don't have one. You must repeat it every two years. Save the certificate you receive, since we need a copy to process your application.

  2. Fill out two forms

    Complete an adult application as a merit badge counselor and a Merit Badge Counselor Information form. Both are on the counselor forms page.

    • On the adult application, use position code 42 (merit badge counselor) and sign where indicated. Include the signed background check authorization that comes with it. You don't need to be affiliated with a unit.
    • Sign the information form and include the date you took Safeguarding Youth training.
    • If you aren't already registered in a unit position, Greater New York Councils charges an annual $25 counselor registration fee. See the council's fee details.

  3. Send everything to Bernie Carp

    Email the application, information form, and training certificate to our merit badge counselor coordinator at . Electronic copies are fine, but the forms must have physical signatures.

  4. Add any special certifications

    Some merit badges, commonly shooting sports and aquatics, require extra documentation or certifications. Include them when you send your application.

  5. Wait for confirmation

    Bernie verifies everything and lets you know if anything else is needed or if you're good to go.