FAQ
We’re here to help you get started, stay involved, and keep exploring.
Getting Started
Q. How do I join Scouting in my area?​
A. You can join anytime! Visit BeAScout.org to find local packs, troops, and crews by zip code. Once you’ve found a unit near you, contact the leader or visit a meeting to get started.
Q. What activities are available for my child's age group?​
A. Scouting offers programs for every stage: Cub Scouts (K–5) for family-based adventures, Scouts BSA (ages 11–17) for youth-led outdoor experiences, and Venturing (ages 14–20) for high-adventure and leadership. Each program helps youth grow in confidence, character, and citizenship.
Q. Is Scouting open to both boys and girls?​
A. Yes! Scouting is open to all youth.
Q. Can families visit a meeting or event before joining?​
A. Absolutely! Most units welcome families to attend a meeting or activity before signing up. It’s a great way to meet leaders, see the program in action, and ask questions.
Fees & Registration
Q. How much does Scouting cost, and what do the fees cover?​
A. Registration fees cover national membership, insurance, and program materials. Additional costs for uniforms, activities, or camping vary by unit. Financial assistance is available to ensure every child can participate.
​
Click here for current membership fees (updated 2/1/2025).
Q. Are there financial assistance or camperships available?​
A. Yes—Pacific Skyline Council offers camperships and scholarships to help families in need. We believe no Scout should miss out on the adventure because of cost. Click here for more information, including registration assistance and campership applications.
Q. How do I apply the military discount to membership fees?​
A. Effective June 1, 2026, eligible youth in Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard families can have the national registration fee waived during online registration and renewal. The current national registration fee will be reduced to $0 when the discount code is entered, after verification. Additional costs (including Council Program Fees, Scout Life Magazine Subscription, online processing fees, and unit-level fees) are not included. This fee waiver is not applicable to adult volunteer registrations.
​
Click here for step-by-step instructions for new applications.
​
The military discount cannot be applied when registering with a paper/PDF application or completing the member renewal process at the council office. There is no workaround to apply the discount to registrations or renewals processed at the council office.
Q. What equipment or uniforms will my child need to start?​
A. New Scouts begin with a simple uniform (shirt, neckerchief, and slide). Additional gear like camping equipment can often be borrowed from your unit or purchased gradually as your Scout gains experience.
Q. How do I transfer a youth or adult registration to another unit?​
A. For in-council transfers, the parent or adult volunteer needs to:
-
Log into their https://my.scouting.org account
-
Click the My Application button
-
Click the Transfer/Multiple Applications tab
-
Click the Transfer button
-
Enter the new unit's number as 4 digits along with any other required information
-
Submit
​
Your new unit's leaders will need to accept the application in my.scouting's Application Manager.
​
For out of council transfers, the parent or adult volunteer needs to:
-
Find the online application link for your new unit at https://beascout.scouting.org/ (or ask you new unit's leaders for the link)
-
Select Youth or Adult, depending on whose registration is being transferred
-
When asked if the person is a current/former scout, say Yes
-
Enter the Member ID, first name, last name, and date of birth for the person whose registration is being transferred
-
Once the system finds a match, click the Transfer button
-
If the system does not find a match, please contact your current council's Registrar to make sure all information matches the person's profile in my.scouting​
-
-
Enter any required information​
-
Submit
​
Your new unit's leaders will need to accept the application in my.scouting's Application Manager.
​
If you are unable to complete an out of council transfer online, you may have to submit a paper/PDF application.
Arrow of Light Scouts
Q. When should my Arrow of Light (AOL) Scout crossover to a troop?
A. AOL Scouts should aim to finish their AOL rank requirements in the winter, with the goal of joining a troop between January and March of their 5th grade school year.
Q. Why is it important for my AOL Scout to join a troop in the winter, instead of waiting until the end of the 5th grade school year?​
A. “Bridging” or “Crossover” to a Troop in the winter allows Scouts and parents to transition from the adult-led Cub Scout program to the youth-led Scouts BSA program before summer camp. Scouts have a chance to learn skills, make new friends, advance in rank, and join spring weekend campouts and other activities, like the Council’s Merit Badge Midway (March), Camporee (April), and Shooting Sports Weekend (May). When summer camp comes along later in the year, the Scouts (and their parents!) will Be Prepared for that next big step.
Q. How does my AOL Scout know which troop to join?​
A. All of our troops offer great outdoor programs, combining fun, character growth, and leadership opportunities. We strongly recommend visiting multiple troops to find the right fit for your AOL Scout, even if your pack's AOL Scouts typically go to one troop. Click here for a guide to help your family navigate Troop visits and determine which troop is the best fit for you.
Volunteering & Leadership
Q. How can parents or guardians get involved as volunteers?​
A. Parents are encouraged to join in! You can help with meetings, outings, or events—even small roles make a big difference. Talk to your unit leader to find the best way to contribute your time or skills. Click here for details on the adult volunteer registration process.
Q. What training is required for adult leaders?​
A. All leaders complete Youth Protection Training and position-specific courses to ensure a safe, positive experience for every Scout. Additional opportunities for outdoor and leadership training are offered year-round through the council. Click here to learn more about training.
Q. Where can I find information about leader resources or upcoming trainings?​
A. Visit the Training section of our website for current course listings, dates, and registration links. You’ll also find online resources, leader guides, and safety information to help you stay up to date.
Camping & Activities
Q. What camps does Pacific Skyline Council operate and how do I sign up?​
A. Our council operates Camp Oljato in the High Sierra, and Boulder Creek and Cutter Scout Reservations in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Each offers unique outdoor programs. Visit our Camps page to explore options and register for upcoming sessions.
Q. What kind of activities can Scouts participate in throughout the year?​
A. Scouts take part in camping, hiking, STEM projects, service, leadership challenges, and community events. Every activity is designed to teach skills, build friendships, and encourage youth to live the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Click here to view our upcoming council-sponsored programs and activities.
Q. How does Scouting ensure safety during outdoor programs and trips?​
A. Safety is our top priority. All activities follow the Guide to Safe Scouting and are supervised by trained adults. Leaders are certified in first aid, youth protection, and outdoor safety to keep every Scout secure.
Additional Information
Q. Who do I contact if I have more questions about membership or events?​
A. You can reach out to the Pacific Skyline Council Service Centers in Foster City or Palo Alto for help. Our staff is happy to connect you with local leaders, answer questions, or guide you to the right resources. Click here for contact information.