How to Join Freemasonry
If you are interested in becoming a Freemason, the best place to start is by speaking with a Master Mason you know and asking him about Freemasonry. If, after learning more, you still wish to join, ask him about the process.
Where to Start
If you do not know a Master Mason, you will need to find a lodge or a Master Mason who can help guide you. A good starting point is to search for the Grand Lodge in your state or jurisdiction, visit its website, and look for a lodge near you.
If you cannot find a lodge in your area, contact the Grand Lodge for assistance. Grand Lodge representatives and lodge officers are generally willing to answer sincere questions and help direct prospective members to a lodge in their area.
No one is ever forced to become a Mason. In many jurisdictions, a man must ask about becoming a member. While morally good men are welcome to inquire, the first step normally begins with your own request.
Steps After Asking to Join
Once you have asked to join, you will usually be given an application, often called a petition, to complete. After the petition is completed, it is submitted to the lodge for processing.
During the process, the lodge may select a committee to meet with you, learn more about you, and report its findings to the lodge members. The lodge members then vote on your petition by ballot.
If accepted, the candidate receives the first of the three degrees of symbolic Masonry: Entered Apprentice. The second degree is Fellow Craft, and the third is Master Mason. After completing the degrees, he becomes a member of the fraternity.
Common Qualifications
Requirements vary by Grand Lodge and jurisdiction. The list below reflects common qualifications, but individual jurisdictions may have additional requirements.
- Be a man of lawful age, commonly at least 18, though some jurisdictions require 21.
- Believe in a Supreme Being.
- Live an ethical and moral life.
- Reside in, or otherwise qualify under, the jurisdiction where you wish to apply.
- Ask to join of your own free will.
- Submit a petition and pay any required fees.
We wish you well in your search. If you are interested in learning more, visit the links section to find Grand Lodge websites and other useful Masonic resources.