Training Requirements

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

Depth certifications are issued per Scientific Diving Safety Manual, Sec. 2.26, pending appropriate training and check-out dive with the SDO or his designee.

To maintain active status:
Divers must complete periodic check-out dives and rescue training, perform 12 dives annually (at least one dive every six months, and at least 2 dives within the certified depth range to maintain depth certification), and maintain diving medical certification, diving first aid training, and scuba equipment maintenance.

Additional training is required for specialties such as use of full face masks, dry suits, blue water diving techniques, decompression diving, and overhead environment diving.

Dive computer proficiency and use is required for decompression status monitoring.

Class Schedule
The following classes are restricted to Smithsonian scientists, research fellows and technicians and are not open to the general public.