Rotary International defines active members as those who meet the requirements for membership, pay Rotary International dues, are eligible to vote on district matters, and are eligible to hold a club officer position.
Honorary membership is used to recognize people who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service and embody Rotary ideals, or those considered friends of Rotary for their support of Rotary's causes.
They are exempt from paying RI dues, have no vote in Rotary matters, are not eligible to hold any club office, and are not included in a club's membership numbers.
Active members are called Rotarians, while honorary members are called honorary Rotarians.