Traffic Safety Merit Badge

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts learn how to be safe drivers and passengers. This badge teaches why traffic rules are important and how following them can prevent accidents. It also covers how to spot dangers on the road and make smart choices. Scouts who earn this badge gain knowledge they will need when they start driving.

Scouts learn how cars work and how to keep them safe to drive. They find out what features make cars safer and how to check things like lights, tires, and windows. The Traffic Safety merit badge also explains why seat belts and other safety tools matter. These are all things that help prevent crashes and injuries.

The badge also teaches how drugs, alcohol, and distractions affect driving. Scouts learn why it’s never safe to drive under the influence or when tired. They find out how to stay alert and make good decisions behind the wheel. Even younger Scouts can use this knowledge to help others be safer on the road.

Working on the Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts become more responsible. They learn how to care for others by thinking ahead and staying focused. This badge is a good step toward becoming a smart and careful driver. It gives real-world skills that are useful every day.

Traffic Safety Merit Badge Requirements

Traffic Safety Merit Badge Pamphlet

Traffic Safety Merit Badge Workbook / Worksheet

Traffic Safety Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Traffic Safety Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Traffic Safety merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: New Driver Safety
• Requirement 2: Vehicle Safety Features
• Requirement 3: Vehicle Inspection Basics
• Requirement 4: Road Safety Awareness
• Requirement 5: Traffic Safety Action
• More Resources

Top 10 Mistakes New Drivers Make

Scouts working on the Traffic Safety merit badge should learn what new drivers do wrong most often. These mistakes lead to crashes, injuries, and sometimes worse. Knowing what to avoid can help keep you and others safe on the road.

Each of these mistakes is risky. Some, like speeding or distracted driving, can lead to serious crashes. Others, like being tired or angry, affect your ability to focus and react. New drivers are still learning, so they need to pay extra attention to safe habits.

• Risk Taking: Teens sometimes try risky moves while driving, like speeding through yellow lights or trying to impress friends. These actions can lead to deadly crashes. Always think before acting. Your choices affect you and everyone around you.
• Texting and Talking: Using a phone while driving is very dangerous. Texting makes you 23 times more likely to crash. Even talking on a phone slows down your reaction time. Keep your eyes, hands, and mind on the road.
• Un-Buckled: Not wearing a seat belt is one of the most common mistakes. About two-thirds of teens killed in crashes weren’t buckled up. A seat belt can cut the risk of death or injury almost in half. Always wear one, and make sure your passengers do too.
• Music: Loud music or adjusting music settings can be distracting. While you’re learning to drive, keep the music off. Stay focused on the road and the sounds around you.
• Speed: Driving over the speed limit is a major cause of teen crashes. One-third of fatal crashes for teens involve speeding. Drive at a safe speed, and you’ll have more time to react if something goes wrong.
• Rowdy Riders: Having friends in the car can be dangerous. One teen passenger increases crash risk by 50%. Two or more passengers raise the risk five times. Keep passengers to a minimum when you’re a new driver.
• DUI/Drugs: Alcohol and drugs make it harder to drive safely. This includes some cold medicines and prescription drugs. Never drive under the influence of anything that affects your judgment or reaction time.
• Late Night Driving: Teen crashes are much more likely at night, especially between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. It’s harder to see and react. Follow any curfews and try to avoid late-night driving.
• Peer Pressure: Friends may push you to do unsafe things, like speeding or skipping the seat belt. Think before you get in the car. If someone is not driving safely, speak up or get out.
• Overconfidence: New drivers may feel ready for anything, but there’s still a lot to learn. Unfamiliar situations can lead to poor decisions. Even after getting your license, keep learning and ask for help from adults when needed.

As part of this requirement for the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts also need to know what to carry with them. When you drive, the law requires you to have two things with you:

• Your driver’s license
• Proof of insurance

These show that you are allowed to drive and that your vehicle is covered in case of a crash. Keeping these items with you every time you drive is part of being a responsible Scout and driver.

Why Driving Under the Influence Is So Dangerous

When Scouts work on the Traffic Safety merit badge, they learn how alcohol and drugs affect the human body. These substances make it harder to drive safely. Driving under the influence is one of the main causes of crashes, injuries, and deaths on the road. It puts the driver, passengers, and others in danger.

Alcohol is a depressant. That means it slows down how the brain and body work. It affects your ability to think clearly, react quickly, and stay focused. Even a small amount of alcohol can make it harder to judge distance or speed. It can also slow down your reaction time and make it harder to stay in your lane.

Drugs can be just as dangerous. Marijuana, prescription painkillers, cold medicine, and illegal drugs all affect the brain. They can cause confusion, sleepiness, or poor judgment. Some medications, even over-the-counter ones, can make you drowsy or dizzy. When someone is under the influence of any mind-altering substance, they should not drive.

Blood alcohol concentration, or BAC, is a way to measure how much alcohol is in a person’s body. In every state, it is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08 or higher. But people can be impaired at much lower levels. Drivers under age 21 are usually held to a zero-tolerance rule, which means any alcohol in their system can lead to penalties.

Driving under the influence can lead to serious consequences. These may include fines, license suspension, mandatory classes, or even jail time. If a crash happens, the driver may be sued or charged with a felony. A DUI conviction can also make it harder to get a job or affordable insurance.

The Traffic Safety merit badge also explores what open-container laws are. In most states, it is illegal to have an open container of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle. This applies to both drivers and passengers. Even if you are not drinking, having an open bottle or can in the car can lead to legal trouble.

Learning about the dangers of impaired driving is a key part of the Traffic Safety merit badge. Scouts who understand how alcohol and drugs affect driving can make smart choices. They can also speak up when someone else is about to make a dangerous decision. This helps keep everyone safer on the road.

Why New Drivers Crash More—and How to Stay Safe

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts why new drivers face greater risks on the road. Crash data shows that teenagers and people with less experience behind the wheel are more likely to be involved in accidents. These crashes can lead to serious injuries or even death.

One reason is inexperience. New drivers haven’t had enough time to learn how to handle tough or unexpected situations, like bad weather or heavy traffic. They might not know how long it takes to stop a car or how to react if another driver cuts them off. These skills come with practice.

Another reason is decision-making. Young drivers sometimes make unsafe choices, like speeding or taking risks. They might not see the danger in a situation, or they might feel pressure from friends to act a certain way. Without strong driving habits, it’s easy to make mistakes.

Distractions are also a big problem. Things like texting, changing the music, or talking to passengers can take a driver’s attention off the road. Even looking away for a few seconds can lead to a crash. The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts understand how dangerous distractions can be.

So what can you do to stay safe?

• First, limit distractions. Put your phone away while driving. Keep music low or off, and only have passengers who help you stay focused. It’s easier to drive safely when you can concentrate.
• Second, take it slow. Give yourself time to learn and get comfortable. Avoid driving at night or in bad weather until you have more experience. Don’t drive when you’re tired, upset, or in a rush. These situations make it harder to stay alert.
• Third, follow the rules. Always wear your seat belt, follow the speed limit, and leave space between you and the car in front of you. Defensive driving means being prepared for what others might do wrong. Stay calm and patient, even if other drivers don’t.

By working on the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts learn how to avoid common mistakes and become responsible drivers. These skills help protect you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

Why Distractions and Fatigue Make Driving Dangerous

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts understand why drivers must stay alert and focused. One of the biggest dangers on the road is driving while tired or distracted. These problems are a major cause of crashes, especially for new drivers and for adults who don’t plan ahead.

When a driver is fatigued, their body and brain don’t work as well. Fatigue means being very tired, either from lack of sleep or from doing too much without rest. A tired driver may drift in and out of focus, react slowly, or even fall asleep at the wheel. This can lead to serious accidents, especially at night or on long trips.

Distractions are another big risk. A distracted driver is doing something that takes their attention off driving. There are three types of distractions: visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking your hands off the wheel), and cognitive (taking your mind off driving). Some activities involve all three.

Here are common driving distractions:

• Texting or using a phone
• Talking to passengers
• Adjusting music or GPS
• Eating or drinking
• Looking at things outside the car
• Reaching for items in the vehicle
• Grooming, such as brushing hair or putting on makeup
• Reading maps or papers
• Watching videos or using in-car screens
• Daydreaming or getting lost in thought

Even a quick glance away from the road can lead to a crash, especially if traffic stops suddenly or something unexpected happens.

To avoid distractions, drivers should turn off or silence phones, set up music or navigation before starting the car, and wait to eat or drink until the trip is over. Passengers should help the driver stay focused by being calm and helpful, not rowdy or loud. Drivers should keep both hands on the wheel and watch the road at all times.

Fatigue can be reduced by getting enough sleep before driving, taking regular breaks on long trips, and avoiding travel during times when you’d normally be asleep. If you feel drowsy, pull over safely and rest. Driving tired is just as risky as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The Traffic Safety merit badge also reminds Scouts that volunteer drivers in Scouting have special responsibilities. When transporting Scouts, adult drivers must plan ahead to be rested, focused, and distraction-free. They should limit driving late at night, avoid fatigue by getting enough rest before a trip, and never drive after a long day of physical activity. This helps keep everyone in the vehicle safe and supports the goals of the Scouting program.

Seat Belts Save Lives

One part of the Traffic Safety merit badge is learning how to wear a seat belt the right way. Seat belts are one of the most basic and most effective safety tools in any vehicle. When a car stops suddenly or is in a crash, seat belts help keep you from being thrown forward or out of the car.

To wear a seat belt properly, start by sitting up straight with your back against the seat. Pull the lap belt across your hips. It should rest low and snug across the top of your thighs or hip bones, not across your stomach. The shoulder belt should go across the center of your chest and over your shoulder. It should never be placed under your arm or behind your back.

Wearing a seat belt the right way spreads out the force of a crash across the strongest parts of your body. These include your shoulders, chest, and hips. That makes it less likely that you will be seriously hurt. A seat belt also helps keep you in place so the air bags can work properly.

Air bags are not a replacement for seat belts. In fact, air bags can be dangerous if you’re not wearing a seat belt. If you’re too close to the air bag or are thrown forward in a crash, the air bag might cause injury instead of helping. Seat belts keep you in the right position so the safety features of the car can work as they should.

Everyone in the car should wear a seat belt. That includes people sitting in the back. In a crash, an unbelted person in the back seat can be thrown forward and hit others in the car. That can cause serious injuries or even death for both the unbelted person and the people in front of them.

According to the Traffic Safety merit badge pamphlet, wearing a seat belt cuts the risk of death in a crash nearly in half. Yet many people still choose not to wear one. Some people think they don’t need a seat belt for short trips or when driving slowly, but most crashes happen close to home and at low speeds.

Learning how and why to wear a seat belt is an important step in becoming a safe driver. The Traffic Safety merit badge gives Scouts the tools they need to protect themselves and others. Wearing a seat belt is a simple habit that makes a big difference every time you get in a vehicle.

Other Vehicle Safety Features You Should Know

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts about many different ways cars are made safer. One important group of safety tools is called occupant restraint systems. These include seat belts and air bags. But vehicles also have other safety features that protect drivers and passengers. Knowing about these features helps Scouts understand how cars are designed to reduce injuries and prevent crashes.

One helpful feature is antilock brakes. These brakes stop the wheels from locking up during sudden stops. When wheels lock up, a car can slide out of control. Antilock brakes work by quickly pulsing the brake pressure many times per second. This helps the driver steer while stopping and keeps the car more stable, especially on wet or slippery roads.

Another feature is traction control. This system helps the car grip the road when the tires start to slip. It uses sensors to check if the wheels are moving at different speeds. If one wheel starts spinning too fast, the system applies the brake to that wheel or reduces engine power. This helps prevent skidding, especially in rain or snow.

Head restraints are another safety tool. These are the padded supports at the top of car seats. In a crash, especially if the car is hit from behind, the head restraint helps stop the head from snapping backward. This can prevent neck injuries, such as whiplash.

Crumple zones are built into the body of the car. These are parts of the front and rear that are designed to crush in a controlled way during a crash. They absorb energy from the impact, which helps protect the people inside. Without crumple zones, the full force of the crash would be felt inside the passenger area.

One more safety feature is electronic stability control. This system helps keep the car from spinning out or rolling over. It uses sensors to detect when the car is turning too sharply or sliding sideways. The system then applies brakes to specific wheels or changes engine power to help the driver regain control.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts see how these safety systems work together. Even with all these tools, safe driving still depends on the person behind the wheel. By understanding these features and driving carefully, Scouts can help prevent crashes and protect everyone in the car.

Know Your Vehicle’s Lights

When working on the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts learn how important it is to check that all vehicle lights are working properly. Lights help drivers see and be seen. They also help show what the driver plans to do, like turning or stopping. These lights must be clear and bright to keep everyone on the road safe.

Start by checking the headlights. These are used when driving at night, during fog, or when it’s raining or snowing. Most cars have low-beam and high-beam settings. Low beams are used for regular nighttime driving. High beams help light up dark roads when no one is coming toward you. The switch is usually a knob on the dashboard or part of the turn signal lever.

Parking lights are small lights at the front and back of the vehicle. They are used when a car is parked on the side of the road at night. Marker lights are found on the sides of some vehicles, especially trucks, to show how long and wide the vehicle is. These help other drivers see your vehicle from the side in the dark.

Brake lights turn on when you press the brake pedal. They warn drivers behind you that you’re slowing down or stopping. Brake lights are located at the back of the car. Make sure they are not blocked by dirt or damage. You will need someone to help you check them by pressing the brakes while you watch from behind.

Turn signals flash on either the right or left side of the vehicle to show which direction you plan to turn. These are controlled by the turn signal lever near the steering wheel. Using your signals helps other drivers know what you are doing. Always use them when changing lanes or turning.

To check these lights, walk around the vehicle while someone turns them on one by one. Make sure the lenses are clean and not cracked. All bulbs should light up when used. If a light is not working, it should be replaced right away. Many newer vehicles show a warning if a light is out.

Using your lights correctly is part of safe and courteous driving. It helps prevent crashes by letting others see your car and understand your actions. The Traffic Safety merit badge shows Scouts how these simple checks and habits make a big difference. Keeping your vehicle lights in good condition helps you protect yourself and others on the road.

Checking Tire Pressure the Right Way

As part of the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts learn how to take care of a vehicle by checking the tires. One of the easiest and most important checks is tire pressure. This means making sure each tire is filled with the right amount of air. Tires that are not properly inflated can cause safety problems and waste fuel.

To check tire pressure, you need a tire pressure gauge. Remove the cap from the air valve on the tire, press the gauge onto the valve, and read the number it shows. Make sure to check the pressure when the tires are cold, like before you drive for the day. Driving heats up the tires and gives a higher reading that is not accurate.

You can find the correct tire pressure for your vehicle by looking inside the driver’s door. There should be a sticker that lists the recommended pressure in pounds per square inch, or psi. You can also find it in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Do not use the number printed on the tire itself—that number shows the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the one you should use.

Proper tire pressure helps keep the vehicle stable and easy to control. Underinflated tires (low air) can make the car harder to steer and stop. They also get hotter while driving, which can cause a blowout. Overinflated tires (too much air) have less grip and can wear out unevenly. Both are unsafe.

Good tire pressure also improves gas mileage. If tires are too low, the car uses more fuel because the engine has to work harder. Keeping your tires properly inflated means fewer trips to the gas station and less wear on the tires. This also saves money over time.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts learn the habit of checking tires regularly. Tires should be checked at least once a month and before long trips. If the pressure is too low, use an air pump to fill it to the correct level. Many gas stations have air pumps you can use.

Tire pressure is a small detail that makes a big difference. Safe drivers take the time to check it, just like they check lights and seat belts. By learning these steps through the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts gain skills that keep them and others safe every time they get on the road.

Why Tire Tread Depth Matters

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts that safe driving starts with safe equipment. One part of that is tire tread depth. The tread is the part of the tire that touches the road. It has grooves that help push water away and give the tire grip. If the tread is too low, the car can slide or lose control, especially in rain or snow.

Tires with good tread help the car stop faster. They also keep the vehicle from skidding when turning or stopping suddenly. When the road is wet, worn-out tread can cause hydroplaning. This is when the tires lose contact with the road and ride on top of water. It can lead to a serious crash.

Tread also helps the vehicle handle uneven or rough roads. Without enough tread, the tires can’t grip the surface well. This makes the car harder to control. That’s why it’s important to check the tread regularly and replace tires before they become unsafe.

To check the tread depth, you can use a penny. Place the penny into the groove of the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is too low, and it’s time to replace the tire. This test works because the distance from the edge of a penny to the top of Lincoln’s head is about 1/16 of an inch—the legal minimum tread depth in many states.

Some tires have tread wear bars built into the grooves. These are small, raised sections across the tread. When the tread wears down to the same level as these bars, the tire needs to be replaced. You can also use a tread depth gauge, which measures the exact depth in inches or millimeters.

Tread should be checked in more than one spot on each tire. Sometimes tires wear unevenly. Check the inside, middle, and outside of each tire to be sure all areas have enough tread. Uneven wear could also mean there is a problem with the car’s alignment or suspension.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts learn how to spot signs that tires are wearing out. Good tires are key to safe driving. By checking tread depth regularly, Scouts help make sure the vehicle is ready for the road, rain or shine.

Clear Windows Keep You Safe

One important part of the Traffic Safety merit badge is learning how to keep your windows clear. If the driver can’t see well, it’s harder to stay in the correct lane, judge distance, or notice other vehicles and hazards. Good visibility through the front, rear, and side windows is needed for safe driving in all conditions.

Several things can block your view while driving. Dirt, dust, and road salt can build up on the windows and make it hard to see. Ice and fog can also cover the glass and must be cleared before driving. Stickers or dark window tint can block your view, especially at night. Even cracked or chipped glass can create glare and make it hard to see through.

The windshield wipers play a big role in keeping the front window clean during rain, snow, or when washer fluid is used. If the wiper blades are worn or damaged, they might leave streaks or miss spots. This can be dangerous, especially when you need to react quickly to something on the road.

To check if your wiper blades work well, try a smear-and-clear test. First, mix some soap and water to make a thick, foamy solution. Spread it on the windshield. Turn on the wipers and watch what happens. If the blades leave streaks or don’t clear the glass in three wipes, they probably need to be replaced.

Windshield wipers are not just for heavy rain. Even in good weather, they help clear bug splatter, bird droppings, or dusty film. In cold weather, they help remove light snow and ice. During fog or drizzle, they improve visibility so you can see the road and other vehicles clearly.

Rear and side windows also matter. If your rear window is foggy or dirty, it’s hard to see cars behind you when backing up. Use the rear defogger to clear fog and check that the rear wiper (if your vehicle has one) is working. Side mirrors should also be clean so you can see what’s next to you before changing lanes.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts learn how to check and maintain the windows and wipers. Clean, clear glass gives drivers the best chance to notice hazards and make good decisions. Taking a few minutes to check these things before driving can help prevent accidents.

How Far Does It Take to Stop?

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts how long it really takes to stop a vehicle. Most drivers don’t think about how far a car will travel between the time they decide to stop and the time the car actually comes to a complete stop. Knowing these distances helps drivers understand why following distance and quick attention are so important.

There are two parts to stopping distance. The first part is called reaction distance. This is the distance a car travels while the driver notices a problem and moves their foot from the gas pedal to the brake. The second part is called braking distance, which is how far the car keeps moving after the brakes are applied. Together, these two parts make up the total stopping distance.

To demonstrate this, choose a safe, open area away from traffic. Use a tape measure and stakes to mark off the distances a car would travel at different speeds. A car going 30 miles per hour travels about 44 feet during the reaction time and needs about 76 feet to stop. That’s a total of 120 feet. At 50 miles per hour, the reaction distance is about 73 feet and braking adds 174 feet. That’s 247 feet to stop. At 70 miles per hour, reaction distance is 103 feet and braking adds 311 feet—so the car travels 414 feet before it stops.

Seeing these distances marked out on the ground helps Scouts understand how speed affects stopping. The faster a car is going, the longer it takes to stop. Even though the reaction time stays about the same, the car travels farther before stopping because of the higher speed.

Bad weather and road conditions can make stopping distances longer. Rain, snow, or ice reduce traction between the tires and the road. This makes it harder to slow down. If the road is wet or slippery, braking distance may double or even triple. Gravel roads, worn tires, or steep hills can also increase the distance needed to stop safely.

Another factor is how alert the driver is. A tired or distracted driver may take longer to react. That adds to the total stopping distance. This is why it’s so important to avoid distractions and stay focused on the road ahead.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts understand why it’s smart to keep a safe following distance and drive at speeds that match the road and weather. Stopping a car safely takes more space than most people realize, and learning this skill could prevent a crash.

Seeing and Being Seen at Night

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts how important visibility is, especially at night. Drivers need to see clearly in the dark to avoid hazards. People walking or riding bikes at night are harder to see, and that puts them at higher risk of being hit. How they dress and what gear they use makes a big difference.

When a pedestrian or cyclist wears dark clothing without any lights or reflective materials, they can be nearly invisible to a driver. Car headlights may not pick them up until it’s too late to stop. This is especially true on roads without streetlights. Drivers may not see them until they are right in front of the car.

Now compare that to someone wearing reflective gear or using bike lights. A bicycle with a white front light and a red rear light is much easier to spot. A pedestrian or rider wearing reflective material shines brightly when headlights hit them. Reflective vests, arm bands, and strips on shoes help drivers see them from farther away.

Reflective material works by bouncing light back to the source. That means when a car’s headlights shine on it, the light is reflected directly back toward the driver. This gives the driver more time to slow down or move over. Without this, even a careful driver may not notice a person in time.

Good visibility helps not just with seeing others, but also with being seen. This is called conspicuity, which means standing out clearly. At night, drivers look for movement, contrast, and light. A blinking bike light or reflective patches on moving legs and arms makes a person much easier to notice.

Many states require bicycles to have lights when ridden at night. Some also have rules about reflectors on pedals and wheels. Wearing light-colored or reflective clothing is not just a good idea—it may also be part of the law, especially for people walking near roadways at night.

By working on the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts learn that safe driving includes watching for people and bikes. They also learn that when they are walking or biking, it’s their job to make sure drivers can see them. Wearing reflective gear and using lights saves lives, and it’s a simple step that everyone can take.

Reading the Road: Signs, Signals, and Markings

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts how to understand road signs, signals, and markings. These tools help drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians know what to do on the road. They give information, control traffic, and help prevent accidents. Learning what the shapes and colors mean helps everyone stay safe.

The shape of a sign tells you its purpose before you can even read it. A red octagon always means stop. A triangle with the point down means yield. A circle is used for railroad crossings. Diamond-shaped signs warn about things like curves, crossings, or slippery roads. Rectangles are used for speed limits, directions, and other rules. Pentagon signs are used near schools.

Color is another key to understanding signs. Red means stop, yield, or no entry. Yellow warns of general hazards or changes in the road. Green gives direction or shows where places are. Blue signs give service information like rest areas or hospitals. Orange is used for construction or road work. White and black are used for rules like speed limits or lane directions.

Traffic signals use colors too. A red light means stop. A green light means go, but only if the way is clear. Yellow warns that the light is about to change to red. Arrows in these lights show if the rules apply to a certain lane or direction. Flashing red means stop and go when it’s safe. Flashing yellow means use caution.

Pavement markings are the lines and symbols painted on the road. White lines divide lanes going in the same direction. Yellow lines divide lanes going in opposite directions. A solid line means do not cross. A dashed line means you may cross if it’s safe. Symbols like arrows show turn lanes, and bike symbols mark bike lanes. Stop lines show where to stop at signs or lights.

These signs and markings are the same across the United States. That way, drivers can understand them no matter where they travel. This system is called uniform traffic control, and it helps keep roads predictable and safe.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts learn how to recognize and understand signs, lights, and markings. This knowledge helps Scouts become better drivers and more aware pedestrians. When everyone follows these signals, it reduces confusion and keeps traffic moving safely.

Traffic Laws for Drivers and Cyclists

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts that traffic laws are made to protect everyone on the road. These rules don’t just apply to cars and trucks. Bicyclists also have to follow many of the same laws as drivers of motor vehicles. When cyclists follow the rules, they are more predictable, and that helps prevent accidents.

One law that both drivers and cyclists must follow is stopping at stop signs and red lights. Just like a car, a bike must come to a complete stop. This gives everyone a chance to move safely through intersections. Rolling through a stop sign, even on a bike, is dangerous and illegal.

Another shared rule is riding or driving on the correct side of the road. Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic, not against it. This allows drivers and cyclists to see each other more clearly and react in time. Riding against traffic is confusing and increases the chance of a head-on crash.

Signal use is another law that applies to both. Drivers use turn signals to show when they are changing lanes or turning. Cyclists use hand signals for the same reason. Holding out the left arm straight means a left turn. A bent-up left arm or a straight right arm means a right turn. Signaling helps others know what you plan to do.

Yielding the right-of-way is a rule that applies to everyone. At a four-way stop, both cars and bikes must take turns. When making a left turn, drivers and cyclists must wait for oncoming traffic to pass. This law helps avoid collisions in busy intersections.

Speed limits are posted for vehicles, but cyclists must still ride at a safe speed. Going too fast on a bike, especially on sidewalks or in crowded areas, can be unsafe. Cyclists must be in control at all times and ride carefully, especially around pedestrians.

By learning these rules in the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts see that bicycles are treated as vehicles under the law. Cyclists who follow traffic laws are respected and more likely to stay safe. Drivers must also share the road and treat cyclists with care. Knowing how these laws work for both types of road users makes everyone safer.

What Officers Say About Traffic Safety

As part of the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts are asked to learn from people who see the problems on the road every day. A good way to do this is by talking to a traffic law enforcement officer. These are police officers who focus on making sure people follow the traffic laws. They help prevent crashes and keep roads safe.

When talking to an officer, ask what traffic safety issues they see most often. Many officers report that distracted driving is a big problem. This includes texting, eating, or using a phone while driving. Distracted drivers often don’t notice what’s going on around them, and this leads to crashes.

Another issue that officers worry about is speeding. Drivers who go over the speed limit have less time to stop and cause more damage if they crash. Speeding is dangerous in neighborhoods, near schools, and on highways. Even going just a little over the speed limit can raise the risk of an accident.

A third concern is not wearing seat belts. Some drivers and passengers still choose not to buckle up. In a crash, seat belts make a big difference. They help keep people from being thrown from the car. Officers often see injuries that could have been prevented by simply wearing a seat belt.

After learning what concerns officers, the Traffic Safety merit badge asks Scouts to talk about one problem and think of ways to help fix it. For example, if distracted driving is the concern, a Scout might suggest a community campaign that reminds drivers to put away their phones. This could be done with posters, school announcements, or a public safety video.

Solving traffic safety problems takes teamwork. Officers can enforce the law, but they also need help from drivers, schools, and families. Scouts can be leaders by setting a good example and helping others understand the risks.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts see that safety is everyone’s job. By listening to officers and thinking about real-world solutions, Scouts learn how to make their communities safer for drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Writing Your Traffic Safety Pledge

As part of the Traffic Safety merit badge, Scouts are asked to write a personal traffic safety pledge. A pledge is a promise you make to yourself and others. In this case, the goal is to think about the choices you will make to be a safe driver or passenger. It shows that you understand the risks and that you are committed to helping prevent accidents.

Start by thinking about the traffic safety issues that concern you the most. These could be problems you have seen in real life or read about while working on the Traffic Safety merit badge. Some common issues are texting while driving, not wearing seat belts, speeding, and driving while tired or distracted. You don’t have to list every problem—just pick the ones that matter most to you.

Next, think about the actions you can take. For example, if you are concerned about distracted driving, you might pledge to always silence your phone while driving. If seat belt use is a concern, you could promise to wear your seat belt every time and ask others in the car to do the same. Your pledge should include simple, clear actions that you can follow.

Make sure your pledge is realistic. Don’t promise to do things that you might forget or find too hard to stick with. Think about what you already do and what you can do better. The goal is to make small changes that lead to safer habits.

Your pledge doesn’t have to be long. It can be just a few sentences. But it should be meaningful to you. This is your personal promise, so make it something that reflects your values and what you’ve learned from the merit badge.

After writing your pledge, read it to your merit badge counselor. Be ready to talk about why you chose those safety issues and how you plan to keep your promise. This shows that you understand the responsibility that comes with being a safe driver or passenger.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts learn that safe driving is not just about following rules. It’s about being alert, respectful, and prepared. Writing a pledge helps you think through your choices and make a personal commitment to traffic safety.

Plan a Traffic Safety Activity

The Traffic Safety merit badge encourages Scouts to take what they’ve learned and share it with others. One way to do this is to organize an activity or event that shows the importance of traffic safety. This is a good way to help your troop, school, or community learn about safe habits on the road.

When planning your event, think about your audience. You might want to teach Cub Scouts how to cross the street safely, or you might want to talk to younger drivers about distracted driving. Choose one or two safety topics that are age-appropriate and easy to explain. Use what you learned while earning the Traffic Safety merit badge to guide your message.

You don’t need a big budget or a large crowd. Simple activities can still make a big impact. For example, you could set up a station at a troop meeting where Scouts can see how long it takes to stop a car at different speeds using a measuring tape and markers. Or you could organize a bike safety day where Scouts check helmets, learn hand signals, and practice riding safely.

Another idea is to make a short video or slide show about common driving mistakes and how to avoid them. You could include tips about wearing seat belts, watching for bikes, or the dangers of texting while driving. You might even invite a local police officer to speak about what they see on the roads.

Make sure you prepare a plan before the event. Write down what supplies you need, who will help you, and how you will share information. You may want to ask your Scoutmaster or merit badge counselor to look over your plan before the activity. After the event, take a few minutes to reflect on how it went and what people learned.

The Traffic Safety merit badge is about helping Scouts understand how they can be part of the solution. Organizing a traffic safety event helps you build leadership skills and give back to your community. It shows others that traffic safety is important and that everyone can help keep roads safer.

Safety Programs Feature for Scouts BSA

The Safety program feature for Scouts BSA helps youth learn how to handle real-life dangers. It covers home safety, outdoor risks, internet safety, and crime prevention. Meeting ideas are organized by skill level. There are also games, skits, and activities to make learning fun and easy to remember.

The program connects with many advancement topics, including the Traffic Safety merit badge. Scouts can explore public safety careers, visit agencies, and plan events. These activities help Scouts become more aware of risks around them and learn how to stay safe in different settings.

More Merit Badge Resources

The merit badge program gives Scouts the chance to explore different skills and topics. Some badges focus on hobbies, some on careers, and others on safety and life skills. Earning a variety of badges helps Scouts grow and prepare for real-life situations. Each badge gives Scouts a goal to work toward and something useful to learn.

The Traffic Safety merit badge fits into the program by teaching important road safety habits. It helps Scouts understand how to stay safe as drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Like other badges, it builds knowledge, awareness, and responsibility that can be used in everyday life.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Scouts BSA program helps youth grow in leadership, citizenship, fitness, and personal development. Each part of the program teaches skills to help Scouts become responsible and prepared. Merit badges are one way Scouts explore these areas while learning about real-world topics.

The Traffic Safety merit badge supports this growth by helping Scouts learn how to stay safe on and near roads. It encourages smart choices, personal responsibility, and awareness of others. These lessons help Scouts develop good habits and become more thoughtful citizens and leaders.

What is the Traffic Safety merit badge about?

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts how to stay safe on the road. Scouts learn about driving rules, car safety features, and how to avoid accidents.

Do I need a car to earn the Traffic Safety merit badge?

No. You can use a family vehicle or another vehicle you have access to. You don’t have to drive. You just need to check things like lights, tires, and safety features.

Can I earn the Traffic Safety merit badge if I don’t have a driver’s license yet?

Yes. You do not need a license. The badge is designed for all Scouts, including those who are just learning about driving.

What kinds of things will I learn?

The Traffic Safety merit badge covers safe driving habits, how to check a vehicle, laws for drivers and cyclists, and how to plan for safety. It also includes topics like distracted driving and wearing seat belts.

Do I have to talk to a police officer?

One of the options is to interview a traffic law officer. You ask them about the biggest traffic problems they see. This helps you understand what is happening in your community.

What if I don’t want to do the interview option?

You can choose a different requirement. Instead of the interview, you can write a personal safety pledge or plan a safety event. You only need to do one of the three choices.

Is there a hands-on part?

Yes. The Traffic Safety merit badge includes checking vehicle lights, tire pressure, and tire tread. You also do a windshield test and measure stopping distances.

Why is the Traffic Safety merit badge important?

It helps Scouts learn how to make smart choices on the road. Whether you are a driver, passenger, or cyclist, these skills can help save lives.

The Traffic Safety merit badge teaches Scouts how to be safe on the road. This includes being a smart driver, a careful passenger, and an alert pedestrian or cyclist. It covers how to use safety gear, how to check vehicle features, and how to follow traffic laws. It also teaches how poor choices—like texting while driving—can lead to crashes.

Scouts who earn the Traffic Safety merit badge learn how to inspect things like tire pressure, headlights, brake lights, and windshield wipers. They also learn about stopping distances, how seat belts work, and how drugs or alcohol affect driving. These are real-world skills that matter to all Scouts, whether or not they drive yet.

Some of the requirements focus on planning and leadership. Scouts write a traffic safety pledge, organize an event, or interview a traffic law officer. Each of these helps Scouts understand how to take action in their communities. The goal is not just to follow the rules, but to help others stay safe too.

The Traffic Safety merit badge helps Scouts see how everyday decisions affect everyone on the road. By learning these skills now, Scouts can become safer drivers later—and better passengers and pedestrians right away.