The Merit Badge system is guided by the three part, double sided, blue form called "Application for Merit Badge" (blue card).

The boys should bring a blue card filled out and signed by the scoutmaster when he goes to the merit badge counselor for a merit badge counseling session.

People can download a information copy of the card. Basically, one part is for the Scout, one for the Troop unit leader, and one part for the counselor.