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Bobcat Rank Requirements

Regardless of what age or grade a Cub Scout is in, a scout must earn the Bobcat rank before earning any other rank.

  • Learn and say the Scout Oath, with help if needed.
  • Learn and say the Scout Law, with help if needed.
  • Show the Cub Scout sign. Tell what it means.
  • Show the Cub Scout handshake. Tell what it means.
  • Say the Cub Scout motto. Tell what it means.
  • Show the Cub Scout salute. Tell what it means.
  • With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide—Bobcat Requirements

What Are the Scout Oath and Scout Law?

Run this video to find out...

A young scout in uniform raises his right hand in a salute, embodying the spirit of scout activities for kids. The background features the inspiring Scout Oath text.

Scout Oath

On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

The Scout Law

The Scout Law has 12 points. Each is a goal for every Scout. A Scout tries to live up to the Law every day. It is not always easy to do, but a Scout always tries.

​A Scout is:

  • TRUSTWORTHY. Tell the truth and keep promises. People can depend on you.
  • LOYAL. Show that you care about your family, friends, Scout leaders, school, and country.
  • HELPFUL. Volunteer to help others without expecting a reward.
  • FRIENDLY. Be a friend to everyone, even people who are very different from you.
  • COURTEOUS. Be polite to everyone and always use good manners.
  • KIND. Treat others as you want to be treated. Never harm or kill any living thing without good reason.
  • OBEDIENT. Follow the rules of your family, school, and pack. Obey the laws of your community and country.
  • CHEERFUL. Look for the bright side of life. Cheerfully do tasks that come your way. Try to help others be happy.
  • THRIFTY. Work to pay your own way. Try not to be wasteful. Use time, food, supplies, and natural resources wisely.
  • BRAVE. Face difficult situations even when you feel afraid. Do what you think is right, despite what others might be doing or saying.
  • CLEAN. Keep your body and mind fit. Help keep your home and community clean.
  • REVERENT. Be reverent toward God. Be faithful in your religious duties. Respect the beliefs of others.
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Learn the Cub Scout Basics

The Cub Scout Sign

The Cub Scout sign is made with the right arm held high and straight up above the shoulder, with the index and middle fingers forming a V. The other fingers are held down by the thumb. It's the sign of Cub Scouts all over the world.

​The two raised fingers stand for the Scout Oath and the Scout Law.

​The fingers look like the sharp ears of the wolf, ready to listen to Akela! Leaders and scouts should give the Cub Scout sign when repeating the Scout Oath or the Scout Law. The sign is also used in the Living Circle and other ceremonies.

Black and white illustration of two hands shaking, with one person's fingers crossed behind the handshake, reminiscent of trust challenges in scout activities for kids.

The Cub Scout Handshake

The Cub Scout handshake is made by putting the index and middle fingers of the right hand against the other person's wrist when shaking hands. The handshake means that each Scout will help others to remember and obey the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

The Cub Scout Motto... DO YOUR BEST

Illustration of a Scout saluting, wearing a uniform with badges and a cap, facing forward, embodying the spirit of Scout activities for kids.

The Cub Scout Salute

The Cub Scout salute is made by joining the index and middle fingers of the right hand (holding the other fingers with the thumb) and touching them to the cap visor or forehead above the right eyebrow. The hand is held the same as for the Cub Scout sign, except the index and middle fingers are together.

The salute is used to salute the flag when in uniform--otherwise hold your right hand over your heart. It can also be used when greeting other Scouts.

Exercises in the Pamphlet: How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide

Click on the book cover for the pamphlet and exercises from How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide