scope:

Scope and Applicability

a. This instruction applies to all active and reserve members of the Navy, including applicants for entry into the Navy and Navy Reserve, as well as midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) and in the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC), and officers and officer candidates in Navy officer accession programs. Nothing in this instruction precludes disciplinary or administrative action for conduct that is proscribed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice or supporting policies.

b. Conscientious Objectors. Conscientious objections are not covered under this instruction. See DoD Instruction 1300.06 (Conscientious Objector) of 12 July 2017.

c. Peyote Use. Peyote use is not covered under this instruction. See Assistant Secretary of Defense for Force Management Policy Memorandum of 25 April 1997, Sacramental Use of Peyote by Native American Service Members.

Purpose. To provide updated policy, guidance, procedures and responsibilities for the accommodation of a sincerely held religious belief for Sailors and prospective accessions, per references (a) and (b). Reference (c) provides the Navy's manner of wear policy for the most commonly requested religious accommodations as delineated in paragraph 5.