In order to join, you must be sponsored by a member of an Elks Lodge and reside in the jurisdiction of the Lodge you wish to join. You also need two other Elks who will be your co-sponsors. The Elks who proposes you for membership must obtain a Membership Application from the Lodge Secretary, or they may invite you to join using the online invitation at Elks.org

After your proposer fills in the required portion, you will be given the Application for Membership. Fill it in following the instructions and answering all questions. You will then return the completed application to the Lodge Secretary with he prescribed fees. Currently the application fee is $35. This fee is non-refundable.

Once your completed application has been returned it will be read at a regular lodge meeting it will then be forwarded to the Investigating Committee, who will call you and set up a time for you and your sponsor to meet with the committee.

After the investigating committee has completed its work, the committee will report to the lodge floor concerning your application for membership. The members will then be given an opportunity to vote on wether to accept your application or reject it.

If for any reason your application is rejected, you will be notified of the decision. You will then be unable to submit an application for membership for a period of six months from the date of rejection.

If your application is voted on favorably, you will be notified and asked to attend the lodge orientation program. Your spouse and sponsor are also invited to attend the orientation. During this program, you will learn more about the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and its programs and charities. You will also be told during the program the date you will be initiated into our order. You will also be required to pay a prorated portion of the annual lodge dues.

Following your completion of the Orientation Program you will be required to undergo the initiation ritual during a lodge meeting, which are held on Thursday nights. Once you have been initiated you will be an Elk in good standing and are able to take part in all meetings and social functions of the Lodge as well as visit other Lodges.