Recommended Merit Badge Process

The Scout develops an interest in a merit badge and may begin working on the requirements.
The Scout discusses his interest in the merit badge with his unit leader.
The unit leader signs a blue card and provides the Scout with at least one counselor contact.
The Scout contacts the counselor.
The counselor considers any work toward requirements completed prior to the initial discussion with the unit leader.
The Scout, his buddy, and the counselor meet (often several times).
The Scout finishes the requirements.
The counselor approves completion.
The Scout returns the signed blue card to his unit leader, who signs the applicant record section of the blue card.
The unit leader gives the Scout the applicant record.
The unit reports the merit badge to the council.
The Scout receives his merit badge.