Rank: Tenderfoot

The following list describes the official BSA requirements to earn the rank of Tenderfoot. The requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks may be worked on simultaneously - however, these ranks must be earned in sequence.

1. Present yourself to your leader, properly dressed, before going on an overnight camping trip. Show the camping gear you will use. Show the right way to pack and carry it.
2. Spend at least one night on a patrol or troop campout. Sleep in a tent you have helped pitch.
3. On the campout, assist in preparing and cooking one of your patrol's meals. Tell why it is important for each patrol member to share in meal preparation and cleanup, and explain the importance of eating together.
4. 1. Demonstrate how to whip and fuse the ends of a rope.
   2. Demonstrate you know how to tie the following knots and tell what their uses are: two half hitches and the taut-line hitch.
5. Explain the rules of safe hiking, both on the highway and cross-country, during the day and at night. Explain what to do if you are lost.
6. Demonstrate how to display, raise, lower, and fold the American flag.
7. Repeat from memory and explain in your own words the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan.
8. Know your patrol name, give the patrol yell, and describe your patrol flag.
9. Explain the importance of the buddy system as it relates to your personal safety on outings and in your neighborhood. Describe what a bully is and how you should respond to one.
10. 1. Record your best in the following tests:
       • Push-ups
       • Pull-ups
       • Sit-ups
       • Standing long jump
       • 1/4 mile walk/run
    2. Show improvement in the activities listed in requirement 10a after practicing for 30 days.
11. Identify local poisonous plants; tell how to treat for exposure to them.
12. 1. Demonstrate the Heimlich maneuver and tell when it is used.
    2. Show first aid for the following:
       • Simple cuts and scratches
       • Blisters on the hand and foot
       • Minor burns or scalds (first degree)
       • Bites and stings of insects and ticks
       • Poisonous snakebite
       • Nosebleed
       • Frostbite and sunburn
13. Demonstrate scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your everyday life.
14. Participate in a Scoutmaster conference.
15. Complete your board of review

NOTE: Alternate Requirements for the Tenderfoot rank are available for Scouts with physical or mental disabilities if they meet the criteria listed in the Boy Scout Requirements book. (No. 33215)

Please note that Requirement 15 - (Complete your Board of Review) MAY be done AFTER the Scout' has reached age 18.  All other requirements must be completed BEFORE the Scout's 18th Birthday.