Security Clearance Guide
Everything you need to know about obtaining and maintaining a security clearance.
Clearance Levels
Public Trust
Entry-level position of trust for federal employees and contractors.
1-3 months
Investigation:Background Investigation
Access Level:Non-classified sensitive information
Confidential
Basic security clearance for classified information.
1-3 months
Investigation:NACLC
Access Level:Confidential classified information
Secret
Most common security clearance level.
2-6 months
Investigation:T3 Investigation
Access Level:Secret classified information
Top Secret
Higher-level clearance for sensitive national security information.
4-8 months
Investigation:T5 Investigation
Access Level:Top Secret classified information
TS/SCI
Top Secret with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information.
8-15 months
Investigation:T5 + SCI adjudication
Access Level:Compartmented intelligence programs
The Investigation Process
1
Job Offer & Sponsorship
1-2 weeksReceive a conditional job offer from a cleared employer who will sponsor your investigation.
2
SF-86 Submission
1-3 weeksComplete the Standard Form 86, a detailed questionnaire about your background.
3
Background Investigation
1-12 monthsInvestigators review your records, conduct interviews, and verify information.
4
Adjudication
2-8 weeksYour case is reviewed and a clearance determination is made.
5
Clearance Granted
OngoingOnce approved, you can begin working on classified projects.
Tips for Success
Do's
- Be completely honest on your SF-86
- Report all foreign contacts and travel
- Keep your financial records in order
- Report any changes to your status promptly
- Maintain good credit and pay bills on time
Don'ts
- Never lie or omit information
- Don't hide past drug use or legal issues
- Avoid new large debts during investigation
- Don't discuss your investigation details
- Never assume something won't be discovered