Tour Permits Frequently Asked Questions

Many changes have been made in the filing and processing of Tour Permits recently. Here are the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Do I need to hand deliver my tour permit, or can I do it electronically?

A. Tour permits should be completed online through your MyScouting account. This takes far less processing time and will be the main mode of processing within the next year. Currently, Local and National tour permits may also be mailed, or hand delivered, to the council office, although, due to lengthy processing times, this method is highly discouraged. If needed, mail or hand deliver to 9190 Rockville Pike, Bethesda MD 20814, or fax to 301-564-9513.   

Q. How do I set up a MyScouting account?

A. To access or to set up your MyScouting account, please go to www.scouting.org and click on the MyScouting link at the top right of the first page.

Q. When do I need to file a tour permit?

A. If your unit is traveling at least 50 miles but less than 500 miles away from the unit�s meeting place, participating in an overnight or aquatics activity, a Local Tour Permit must be filed. For trips of 500 miles or more one way, a National Tour Permit must be filed.

Q. My unit is going to Scout camp. Do we need a tour permit?

A. If your unit is attending the Scout camp belonging to your council (Goshen, for example) you do not need to file a tour permit. If your unit is attending an out-of-council camp, you need to file a tour permit and a letter of proof of insurance to present at the out-of-council camp. Filing your local tour permit triggers the proof of insurance letter, so there is no need for a separate request.

Q. We are leaving for camp in Pennsylvania on Sunday. Can I get my tour permit processed the Friday before when I pick up uniforms at the Bethesda Scout Shop?

A. In order to properly allow enough time to process a local tour permit, you must allow two weeks lead time on filing the tour permit. We cannot expedite the tour permit or letter of proof of insurance.

Q. Do we always need a tour permit?

A. Tour permits are not required for travel to/from a council camp or council/district event such as training, camporees, etc.

Q. Why do I need driver information?

A. Driver information shows that each driver has the minimum required insurance coverage for the state in which they are licensed. If you have a list of all the drivers in your unit, simply keep a copy and circle those who are driving for each event as needed. This can be added as an addendum to both a Local and National Tour Permit.

Q. What training should I have for my tour permit?

A. At least one registered member of each group must have Youth Protection Training, updated within the past two calendar years, as well as the new Weather Hazards training also updated within the past two years. Other training may be required according to the event for which the tour permit is requested (such as Safe Swim Defense & Safety Afloat).

Q. How do I get my approved permit?

A. Your approval will be mailed to the primary address on the permit OR if you would prefer to have it emailed (local only) please include an email address. We can also fax local permits. National Tour Permits are conditionally approved at NCAC, they must go to the regional office for final approval and therefore CANNOT be emailed or faxed.

Q. What is the most common mistake on a tour permit?

A. Missing signatures, and late filing.