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Registration Options


Lodges work diligently each year to retain members. Sometimes a question arises about how an individual can remain a registered member of the lodge if the member is no longer active with a local unit. This often arises in the context of an Arrowman attending college outside of his council’s geographic area. How can the Arrowman continue to stay registered with the Boy Scouts and, thus, the lodge?

It may be possible for an Arrowman to register with the district or council while remaining unaffiliated with a local unit. All such Arrowmen must submit the Adult Registration Form, No. 524-501. On the form, applicants should indicate a position code to identify the role in which they are registering.

  • Merit badge counselors. All adults serving as merit badge counselors must be registered with the local council as such. Applications should use position code 42.
  • College Scouter reserve. The college Scouter reserve exists for college students at least 17 years of age to maintain a Scouting affiliation. These individuals should be registered either as a district or council Scouter, and not on a unit roster. Both male and female Scouters may register in the college Scouter reserve. The application should indicate a college address and may be submitted through the college or home council. Applicants should use position code 92.
  • Scouter reserve. Individuals who wish to keep an affiliation with Scouting but are not presently able to serve actively may register as a member of the Scouter reserve. These individuals must be at least 21 years old and should be registered with the district in which they reside. Applicants should use position code 91.
  • Other positions. Other selected council or district positions include:
    • Scout alumnus: Position code 95
    • Camp staff: Position code 49
    • District member at large: Position code 75

For more information on these and other registration options, talk to your local council registrar, who can answer your questions about these positions found in the “Registrar Procedures Manual,” No. 524-901 (2010 printing). Of course, these registration options are available only for current Arrowmen. Consult the Guide for Officers and Advisers for membership requirements for youth candidates and adult nominees. And remember, an Arrowman’s primary duty is to his unit!