Scout Rank & Merit Badge Requirements

BSA Rank Requirements (This includes the new changes)
BSA Merit Badge Page (Click this link for individual details)
Rank and Merit Badge Workbooks
Rank Ceremonies​

Basic Scouting Awards

Totin Chip
Award in Boy Scouts of America that shows Scouts understand and agree to certain principles of using different tools with blades. It can be physically represented by a patch or a small paper card. With this, a Scout has the right to carry and use woods tools.

​The Scout must show his Scout leader, or someone designated by his leader, that he understands his responsibility to do the following:
  1. Read and understand woods tools use and safety rules from the Boy Scout Handbook.
  2. Demonstrate proper handling, care, and use of the pocket knife, ax, and saw.
  3. Use knife, ax, and saw as tools, not playthings.
  4. Respect all safety rules to protect others.
  5. Respect property. Cut living and dead trees only with permission and with good reason.
  6. Subscribe to the Outdoor Code.
Firem'n Chit
Grants a Scout the right to carry matches and build campfires; Scout must show his Scout leader, or someone designated by his leader, that he understands his responsibility to do the eight requirements. 

The Scout must show his Scout leader, or someone designated by his leader, that he understands his responsibility to do the following:
  1. I have read and understand use and safety rules from the Boy Scout Handbook.
  2. I will build a campfire only when necessary and when I have the necessary permits (regulations vary by locality).
  3. I will minimize campfire impacts or use existing fire lays consistent with the principles of Leave No Trace. I will check to see that all flammable material is cleared at least 5 feet in all directions from fire (total 10 feet).
  4. I will safely use and store fire starting materials.
  5. I will see that fire is attended to at all times.
  6. I will make sure that water and/or a shovel is readily available. I will promptly report any wildfire to the proper authorities.
  7. I will use the cold-out test to make sure the fire is cold out and will make sure the fire lay is cleaned before I leave it.
  8. I will follow the Outdoor Code, the Guide to Safe Scouting, and the principles of Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly!.
The Scout's "Firem'n Rights" can be taken from him if he fails in his responsibility. 
Paul Bunyan Award​
To encourage proper use of woods tools, training others in Totin’ Chip skills, and creating a simple outdoor project using acquired woods tool skills.
  1. Show that you have earned the Totin' Chip.
  2. Help a Scout or patrol earn the Totin' Chip and demonstrate to him (them) the value of proper woods-tools use on a troop camping trip.
  3. With official approval and supervision do one of the following:
    (a) Clear trails or fire lanes for 2 hours.
    (b) Trim a downed tree, cut into 4-foot lengths and stack; make a brush pile with branches.
    (c) Build a natural retaining wall or irrigation way to aid in a planned conservation effort.    ​