Information about BSA Uniforms

Created by Camping Department, Modified on Tue, Apr 2 at 5:50 PM by Camping Department

The Boy Scouts of America has always been a uniformed body, and for good reason. Wearing a uniform helps to create a sense of belonging and symbolizes character development, leadership, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Here are some key points to keep in mind when it comes to BSA uniforms:

Personal Equality: The uniform represents a democratic idea of equality, bringing people of different backgrounds together in the Scouting tradition. It promotes a sense of unity and belonging among all members.

Identification: The uniform identifies youth and adult members of the Boy Scouts of America, visible as a force for good in the community. It can also attract new members when worn on the correct occasions.

Achievement: The uniform shows the wearer’s activity, responsibility, and achievement. What each youth or adult member has accomplished with program opportunities can be recognized by the insignia worn on the uniform.

Personal Commitment: The uniform is a constant reminder to all members of their commitment to the ideals and purpose of the Boy Scouts of America. It is a way of making visible members’ commitment to a belief in God, loyalty to country, and helping others at all times.

Unit Discretion: Effective January 1, 2023, each Scout unit may decide whether to wear shirts tucked in or untucked. Both tucked and untucked shirts should be neat in appearance. For Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting units, this decision should be made in consultation with unit youth leadership.

While wearing the uniform is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged. The leaders of Scouting— both volunteer and professional—promote the wearing of the correct complete uniform on all suitable occasions. So, wear your uniform with pride and show your commitment to the values and ideals of the Boy Scouts of America.

View the Guide to Awards and Insignia