Thank you for your interest in becoming a Merit Badge Counselor and helping us build young men.

1.   Obtain a BSA Adult leader application and fill it out as a merit badge counselor. In the upper right hand corner of the application where is says "Council/District Position" write in "Merit Badge Counselor"  A new form needs to be filled out even if you are already registered as an adult leader. This form can be obtained at the scout store in Camarillo and Van Nuys or from the troop Advancement Chair or Scoutmaster.

2.   Go to http://olc.scouting.org/info/ypt.html  and take the online "Youth Protection Training". Print the certificate and keep a copy.

 3.   Review "A Guide for Merit Badge Counseling"

 4.   Complete the "Merit Badge Test and Application"  On the Merit Badge Counselor Test and Application, list the merit badge subjects that you feel that you are qualified for, and the area, work, specialized training, hobby or other that qualifies you for this merit badge subject. Just having a general interest or common knowledge of a subject does not qualify you for approval as a counselor.

 5.   Once completed, mail item 1, 2 (copy of certificate), and 4, to Ventura County Council BSA, 509 East Daily Dr., Camarillo, CA   93010 and just below the address write: Merit Badge Counselor Application.

Upon approval of your registration by the Boy Scouts of America and the approval of the district advancement committee you will be notified. You are not authorized to act in the capacity of a merit badge counselor until proper notification has taken place.

Once you have been notified please let us know your availability and feel free to ask any questions you may have.

• If the Merit Badge (MB) is for boating one will need Safety Afloat.
• If the MB is for swimming one will need Safe Swim Defense and a Life Guard on duty.
• If the MB is for climbing one has to be a BSA Climbing Instructor.
• There are additional requirements for shooting.