What is the process to become a joining member in a Masonic Lodge?

Joining a lodge as an existing Mason requires formal proposal, proof of good standing, and election by ballot. A candidate must be in possession of his Grand Lodge Certificate and Clearance Certificate before the ballot can be taken, as admission based solely on the voucher of another brother is invalid 4. If the joining candidate previously resigned or was excluded from a lodge without satisfying its by-laws or clearing unpaid dues, those circumstances must be disclosed to the lodge before taking the ballot 1. A ballot for membership must follow strict constitutional procedures, as the United Grand Lodge of England notes, and a lodge electing a joining member without ascertaining his previous standing becomes liable for any arrears owed to his former lodge 1.

Once elected, the joining candidate completes his admission through a rite or formal procedure of affiliation, taking an obligation of affiliation and signing the lodge's by-laws and minute book 2. Unless restricted by local grand lodge regulations, a Mason is permitted to hold membership in more than one lodge concurrently 3. In doing so, he assumes additional responsibilities and expenses, becoming subject to the independent jurisdiction and discipline of each lodge to which he belongs 3.