Skating and the Trail to Eagle
Skating 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.
Skating Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 2 main requirements for Skating. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain the most likely hazards associated with skating and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
- b.Show that you know first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while skating.
- 2
Working under the supervision of an experienced adult, do ONE of the following options: Option A: Ice Skating, Option B: Roller Skating, Option C: In-Line Skating, or Option D: Skateboarding.
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 Skating Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Skating, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Skating 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 2 weeks 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 4 Skating requirements for you.
Skating Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Skating merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Skating 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 Skating merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Skating in about 2 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Skating merit badge?
Skating is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Skating can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Skating merit badge have?
Skating has 2 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 4 items in total.
