Requirement · part of 4.2.0.0. Both adult leaders and youth leaders approve advancement
4.2.0.0. Parents and guardians do not sign for rank requirements
Required Often forgotten
Parents and guardians encourage, mentor and support at home, but they do not sign for rank advancement requirements, unless they are registered leaders whom the unit leader has authorized to approve advancement, or they are Lone Scout friends and counselors.
Notes and warnings
Warning. The exception is narrower than it is usually remembered. A parent may sign only if they are a registered leader AND the unit leader has authorized them to approve advancement, or if they are a Lone Scout friend and counselor. Being registered is not by itself enough, and being present at the campout is not enough at all. Even where a parent qualifies, the Guide prefers somebody other than the Scout's own parent to certify their accomplishments.
Where this step comes from
- Guide to Advancement (2025), Section 4.2.0.0 · Parents and guardians do not sign for rank advancement requirements unless registered and authorized, or Lone Scout friends and counselors; even then another certifier is preferable.
- Guide to Advancement (2025), Section 5.0.3.0 · Lone Scouting, cited by 4.2.0.0 for the friend and counselor exception.