How do I become a Freemason?
This is a question we get asked often on our website and on our social media pages so we’ve finally decided to write a simple guide about this and detail the step-by-step process of how to join the Freemasons – a Craft dating back hundreds of years where Kings and Presidents were also proud members.
I’m also happy to see that so many people from all over the world and from all walks of life, races, religion and countries be interested in joining the craft – even women are interested in joining (see our interview with a Female Freemason here)
It really gives us hope for the future and we’re more than happy to be able to assist a possible new member and a possible future Worshipful Master on his journey to Light.
So without further introductions, let’s see look at the process of joining Freemasonry and more importantly; how to go about becoming a member.
Let’s start off with somethings you should know before you consider joining.
Freemasonry costs money to join, with lodges asking for an annual fee ranging from $50 to $200 (and more) a year for membership (this is not including additional donations, dinner parties and the regalia you have to buy)
Also when you become a Freemason, do not expect to receive some kind of ancient knowledge that will make your rich and/or powerful.
Sadly, we get this question a lot from people in third world countries asking if (or how) they can become a Freemason to escape poverty and become “rich and famous”.
Freemasonry will not be making you rich, nor famous.
Yes, you will get to meet new people and socialize with people who may have become (independently) financially successful, but this can come from any other social group, mastermind or profession as well and not just Freemasonry.
Another thing you need to remember is that whatever your social status may be, you have to start from the bottom and earn your way up by doing your Masonic degrees, which will be revealed to you in 3 ceremonies we can’t talk about here for obvious reasons.
So, if you have considered what I just told you and you still want to become a Freemason, we suggest reading our guide on how to find a Masonic Lodge to start earning your degrees.
It would be much easier for you if you know someone who is already a Freemason. If so, ask them about the Craft and do an inquiry about membership.
The Masonic motto is: “Ask One To Be One” (ASK12BE1)!
Ask your friend if he can get you an application but before that see if you qualify to be a Freemason:
If so, I am sure he will be happy and honoured to pass on your application to the lodge, he will also become your “proposer” from then on (this will be explained by the lodge).
Another popular way to become a Freemason if you do not know anyone who is a Freemason already would be to go to a lodge yourself and inquire about membership directly.
To find a lodge in your area, go to Google and type: “Your area” + masonic lodge”. Most probably a few listing like the below example will show up.
Simply click through to their website and start the process yourself:
Ask as many questions as you like to any member of the lodge, or if possible try to talk directly to the lodge secretary or the master himself.
Do not be afraid to ask questions.
Freemasonry is a serious thing and more than just a hobby to some people, make sure you know what you are getting yourself into.
If you pass the three “tests” mentioned earlier and you’ve spoken to some Freemasons and you like what Freemasonry is all about, then fill out your application and start your process (details will be given by the lodge).
Give it your proposer (or the lodge secretary) and he will take care of the rest.
Hopefully, you will receive your first degree in a few weeks/months and you’ll get your third (the Master Mason degree) in about a year’s time (duration varies per lodge so take these as estimates rather than a solid fact).
Just be patient and enjoy the ride, the first 3 degrees will blow your mind and the journey, not the destination, is what makes Freemasonry such an inspiring and magical experience.
Now that you know how to join the Freemasons, just remember that this organization has Kings & Presidents in its ranks.
Be sure to approach it with the utmost respect it deserves.
Although it’s frowned upon in the West, in many countries, women are allowed to join Freemasonry. We have two great guides about this which – if you’re a female – I suggest you go through our interview with a female Freemason.
Many, too many to count even. But we did try to answer this question in a previous post.
If you want to know what the benefits of Freemasonry are, the best people to ask are the future Brothers you will be meeting when you visit a lodge.
You can also see this beautiful short film by the Freemasons of California showing you what it actually means to be a Freemason.
I hope this quick guide has answered most of the questions you may have had.
If you have any further questions and require more assistance, do not hesitate to leave a comment below – this blog is visited by thousands of Masons worldwide and I am sure most will be happy to answer your questions.
Welcome to Freemasonry!