Drafting and the Trail to Eagle
Drafting is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Drafting Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Drafting. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Explain how drafting is used to communicate technical information.
- 2
List three types of drafting. Describe the types of drawings and the tools and techniques used.
- 3
Demonstrate the proper use of drafting instruments.
- 4
Make two drawings of geometric shapes, showing proper use of drafting techniques.
- 5
Make a scale drawing of some object or structure.
- 6
Find out about three career opportunities in drafting.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Drafting Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Drafting, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Drafting is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 6 Drafting requirements for you.
Drafting Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Drafting merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Drafting is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Drafting merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Drafting in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Drafting merit badge?
Drafting is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Drafting can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Drafting merit badge have?
Drafting has 6 main requirements, for 6 items in total.
