Inventing and the Trail to Eagle
Inventing 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.
Inventing Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Inventing. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Discuss with your counselor the importance of inventions and innovations.
- 2
Discuss the steps of the inventing process.
- 3
Think of something you would like to invent. Develop a plan.
- 4
Build a prototype of your invention.
- 5
Find out about three career opportunities in inventing or innovation.
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 Inventing Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Inventing, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Inventing 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 6 weeks for a challenging 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 Inventing requirements for you.
Inventing Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Inventing merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Inventing 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 Inventing merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Inventing in about 6 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Inventing merit badge?
Inventing is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Inventing can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Inventing merit badge have?
Inventing has 5 main requirements, for 5 items in total.
