No diving under Smithsonian auspices is allowed until:

1) all elements for scientific diver authorization are active status, and;

2) the submitted Smithsonian dive plan has been reviewed by the Unit Diving Officer and approved by the Smithsonian Scientific Diving Officer. A dive plan authorization number emailed to you constitutes Smithsonian diving authorization.

The dive plan must be received 6 WEEKS prior to planned diving activities. All elements for scientific diver authorization must be completed, current and submitted 2 WEEKS prior to planned diving activities.

Training Requirements for Scientific Diver:

1. 100 hour Scientific Diver entry-level training course
2. Diving First Aid (CPR, first aid, oxygen administration, field neurological examination) training
3. Written examination 
4. Diving medical certification
5. 12 supervised open water dives
6. Depth certification authorization

Smithsonian scientific diving policy is outlined in Smithsonian Directive 120 and in the Scientific Diving Safety Manual.

See a complete list of SI Diving Forms.

INFO & FORMS
If you are a Smithsonian employee and scientific diving is included as an element in your job description and/or performance plan, you can initiate the diving certification process. See Smithsonian Scientific Diver Information for forms and more information.

INFO & FORMS
The Smithsonian may, at its discretion, grant diving privileges to visiting scientific staff from other research organizations. If the scientific diver is EMPLOYED by a current AAUS organizational member institution, then you may initiate the scientific diving reciprocity process. See Smithsonian Scientific Diving Reciprocity.

INFO & FORMS
Temporary diving authorization is the mechanism used to authorize scientists who are NOT employed by AAUS organizational member institutions. If you were previously certified by an AAUS organizational member program, please have that diving officer contact the Smithsonian. See Temporary Diving Authorization.