Fingerprinting and the Trail to Eagle
Fingerprinting 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.
Fingerprinting Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 7 main requirements for Fingerprinting. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Give a brief history of fingerprinting.
- 2
Explain the difference between civil and criminal identification.
- 3
Name the surfaces of the body where friction ridges are found.
- 4
Name the two basic principles supporting the science of fingerprinting.
- 5
Take a clear set of prints using one of the following methods: rolled ink or electronic scan.
- 6
Show how to classify fingerprints.
- 7
Find out about three career opportunities in fingerprinting.
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 Fingerprinting Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Fingerprinting, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Fingerprinting is usually earned anywhere. Pick whichever setting lets you work with your counselor most consistently.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a week for a easy 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 7 Fingerprinting requirements for you.
Fingerprinting Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Fingerprinting merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Fingerprinting 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 Fingerprinting merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Fingerprinting in about a week, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Fingerprinting merit badge?
Fingerprinting is most often earned anywhere. Any registered merit badge counselor for Fingerprinting can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Fingerprinting merit badge have?
Fingerprinting has 7 main requirements, for 7 items in total.
