Security Clearance 101 - ClearanceJobs Information Center (2024)

FAQs

How to answer a security clearance question? ›

You are not a U.S. citizen. You were dishonorably discharged from the military. You are currently involved in illegal drug use. You have been judged as mentally incompetent or mentally incapacitated by a mental health professional.

National Security clearances range from confidential, which is the easiest to attain, to Secret, Top Secret, and SCI, which is the most challenging. Public Trust clearances are either low, moderate, or high risk, and Non-sensitive are the least extensive, requiring only criminal background and credit checks.

More specific conditions that may endanger your security clearance include: A history of deceptive or illegal financial acts like embezzlement, tax evasion, and fraud; Failure to satisfy your debts; and. Financial problems caused by gambling, drug abuse, or alcohol abuse.

The answer to a good security question should be obvious. In addition, it should be easy to remember, but at the same time remain secret to others. The answer should be immediately remembered as soon as the user receives the security question.

SCI classifications are only cleared for a few people and the background investigation process as well as the continual monitoring is extremely intensive. The amount of time it takes to receive a security clearance is usually between six months to one year, if all goes well.

A history of drug addiction, drug involvement, or alcoholism can provide a barrier to receiving security clearance. Past issues with drugs or alcohol may disqualify you from receiving security clearance. Current, ongoing use of an illegal drug will automatically disqualify you.

Approximately 1% of applicants are denied a security clearance.

What information do you evaluate in the security clearance investigation? During the background and security clearance investigation, investigators will review delinquency in paying debts, tax obligations, certain criminal offenses and the illegal use or possession of drugs.

Below are approximate timelines for the clearance process: 1-2 months for a new Secret (interim) clearance. 6-8 months for a new Top Secret (TS) clearance. 8-15 months for a new Top Secret clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI)

How much does a security clearance cost? ›

Secret Clearance: Typically ranges from $300 to $600. Requires more in-depth reviews than Confidential clearance. Top Secret Clearance: Substantially higher, usually between $3,000 and $15,000. Involves exhaustive background checks and field investigations.

Generally, you cannot apply for a security clearance on your own; you must be sponsored by a government agency or a company with a contract with the government. These entities must determine that your job requires access to classified information.

Severe financial problems are automatic disqualifiers for security clearances. Issues such as bankruptcy, unresolved debts, or a history of financial irresponsibility can raise concerns about an individual's susceptibility to coercion or corruption.

During the background check process, certain factors may lead to a person's clearance being denied—such as having a criminal record, financial issues such as bankruptcy or delinquent debts, having affiliations with groups or organizations connected with espionage, and/or drug use or addiction.

Depending on the role there is only a 2% – 5% chance of actually getting denied a security clearance. You have a good chance of getting approved. Even if you have any issues in the one of the 13 guidelines, people get approved everyday.

You may mention your level of clearance, that you underwent polygraph tests and investigations into your background, the dates of polygraphs taken and descriptions of work you performed. Avoid mentioning the following: The specific details of your work, particularly sensitive data relating to them.

Sample Answer: I want to work for your company because I understand the importance of a security team to your property. I know that my job is to keep your staff and property safe from harm. I'm excited to be a part of your team and to work with you in the future. Question: Why should we hire you?

A security clearance is an authorization that allows access to information that would otherwise be forbidden. Security clearances are commonly used in industry and government. Many jobs in information technology (IT) require security clearances.