If you decide to join the Troop, you will need:

 

1. Get Registered with the Troop

A. Unregistered Youth and Adults - If you are NOT already registered with a Pack or Troop, then submit an online application:

https://beascout.scouting.org/list/?zip=20016&program%5B0%5D=scoutsBSA&scoutsBSAFilter=BoysOnly&miles=10&unitID=5306

B. Registered Youth - If you ARE a registered with a Pack or Troop, then have your unit leader log into my.scouting.org and transfer you to Troop 61 (National Capital Area Council). If you or your parent have a my.scouting.org account you may be able to do this yourself. 

C. Registered Adults

Log into my.scouting.org, then select "My Application" and then "Transfer" and select Troop 61

2. Buy a Scout Uniform and Handbook

Visit the Scout Shop at 9190 Rockville Pike in Bethesda (at Cedar Lane) and purchase the following (about $100 in total):

  • Scout Handbook
  • Shirt (most boys have short sleeve)
  • Pants (most boys get the one you can zip off into shorts)
  • Socks
  • Belt
  • Shoulder epaulettes

The Troop will provide you with all of your patches (Council, World crest, Troop number, Patrol) and at his first campout, your son will be presented with a neckerchief and slide.

3. Hand in an Annual Health and Medical Form (see forms on the menu to the left)

Fill out the one for "All Scouting Events". This does not need a doctor signature. Make sure to include a photocopy of your health card (front and back). You may also attach vaccinations instead of filling them out on the form.  Once complete, please give the form to Vicki Burns (Troop Committee Chair) or email it to her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

4. Pay Annual Dues

We charge $400 for the year (2023-2024). If you join mid-year there will be a discount. Pay online at https://boy-scout-troop61.square.site/

5. Provide preferred emails for the Troop distribution list

You will receive information related to meetings, campouts etc.
 
6. Read the Youth Protection pamphlet in the Scout Handbook
 BSA
To join Scouts , parents & boys are also required to read and review the "Youth Protection booklet" about child abuse & keeping boys safe that comes as an insert in the Scout Handbook.  We just need you to verbally confirm that you and your son have done this so he understands that if he feels uncomfortable, it's important to speak up. 

For more information, see http://www.dctroop.org/index.php/about-the-troop