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A New Chapter in Global Dive Education
The Professional Institute of Dive Educators is now a CMAS Federation Affiliate — bringing world-recognized scuba and scientific diving certifications to the United States.
Advancing Global Standards in Dive Education
The Professional Institute of Dive Educators is proud to announce its official affiliation with the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS) — the World Underwater Federation.
This partnership establishes The Professional Institute of Dive Educators as the U.S. federation affiliate of CMAS, dedicated to upholding the highest standards in diver training, professional credentialing, and underwater science. Together, we are building a pathway for divers and instructors to achieve internationally recognized CMAS certifications backed by a legacy of safety, research, and excellence.
Elevating Dive Education — From Classroom to Ocean Depths
The Professional Institute of Dive Educators exists to:
-Deliver CMAS-aligned scuba and scientific diving certifications.
-Credential instructors and divers through a rigorous, standards-based system.
-Offer an easy pathway for military trained divers to receive civilian recognition and credentials for their skill and training
-Partner with universities and research programs to expand access to scientific diving.
-Promote safety, environmental responsibility, and technical mastery in every course.
Through CMAS affiliation, we connect American dive professionals with the global federation that has shaped underwater education for more than sixty years.
The CMAS Standard — Recognized Worldwide
As the World Underwater Federation, CMAS unites national federations, scientific bodies, and dive professionals in more than 130 countries.
By aligning with CMAS, we ensure that every diver and instructor we certify holds credentials recognized by universities, governments, and dive operators across the globe.
Our shared commitment: education grounded in competence, conservation, and the spirit of exploration.
A Global Federation Built on Excellence and Exploration
The Legacy of CMAS
Founded in 1959 under the leadership of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS) — the World Underwater Federation — was established to unify and standardize diver training across nations. For more than six decades, CMAS has served as the international authority for recreational, technical, and scientific diving, representing a federation of over 130 member countries.
CMAS sets the global benchmark for diver education, safety, and environmental stewardship. Its certification framework is recognized by governments, scientific institutions, and professional organizations worldwide — ensuring divers and instructors receive credentials that open doors to international collaboration, research, and exploration.
Why CMAS?
With the Professional Institute of Dive Educators now serving as the U.S. federation affiliate, American divers and instructors gain direct access to CMAS standards and international equivalency.
-Global Recognition: CMAS certifications are honored by dive centers, universities, and scientific organizations around the world.
-Educational Continuity: Training pathways align with established CMAS frameworks, allowing seamless progression between national and international programs.
-Professional Credibility: Instructors and dive centers affiliated with CMAS demonstrate adherence to rigorous standards of safety, pedagogy, and environmental responsibility.
Through this affiliation, the Professional Institute of Dive Educators connects American dive professionals with a global tradition of excellence — ensuring every certification represents not just skill, but a commitment to the enduring values of excelence embodied by CMAS.
Get Involved
Whether you’re an instructor seeking international recognition or a diver advancing your training, the Professional Institute of Dive Educators welcomes you to a new era of opportunity and excellence.