Golf and the Trail to Eagle
Golf 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.
Golf Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Golf. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Discuss safety and courtesy on the golf course.
- 2
Explain the rules and etiquette of golf.
- 3
Show the proper grip, stance, posture, and swing for each type of club.
- 4
Play a total of at least nine holes of golf.
- 5
Find out about three career opportunities in the golf industry.
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 Golf Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Golf, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Golf 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 5 Golf requirements for you.
Golf Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Golf merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Golf 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 Golf merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Golf in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Golf merit badge?
Golf is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Golf can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Golf merit badge have?
Golf has 5 main requirements, for 5 items in total.
