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 authorization process by contacting your Unit Diving Officer. Scientific diver training is offered at the Smithsonian.

No diving under Smithsonian auspices is allowed until:

1) all elements for scientific diver authorization are current, 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, currentand submitted 2 WEEKS prior to planned diving activities.

Smithsonian scientific diving policy is outlined in the Scientific Diving Safetly Manual.

For more information, view forms and authorization requirements here.