What happens if you are denied a security clearance?

The federal government may need up to six months to approve your application for security clearance. If you’re denied, you will be issued a notice (a “Statement of Reasons” or SOR) that describes the specific reasons, disqualifiers, or areas of concern that determined the decision.

Can I get my own security clearance?

You cannot obtain a security clearance for yourself. Your current or prospective employer has to do this for you. Since the process is costly and time-consuming, organizations won’t do it unless it’s absolutely essential.

How do I get a civilian security clearance?

To obtain a security clearance you must be sponsored by a government agency for a position which requires access to classified information. You must be a U.S. citizen to obtain a security clearance.

Who sponsors security clearance?

There are dozens of Government agencies that issue security clearances. DoD civilians, contractors and military personnel account for about 88 percent of all security clearances. Almost all DoD clearances are issued by the DoD Consolidated Adjudications Facility (CAF).

What is required for secret clearance?

A Secret clearance requires a NACLC, and a Credit investigation; it must also be re-investigated every 10 years. Investigative requirements for DoD clearances, which apply to most civilian contractor situations, are contained in the Personnel Security Program issuance known as DoD Regulation 5200.2-R, at part C3.4.2.

Do you need a security clearance to work for the government?

If the applicant doesn’t have a current clearance, and one is required for the job, the application process would be the same as for a federal government or defense contractor job. 1  There are three standard levels of security clearance: Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. 4 

Can you apply for a security clearance without a background check?

You can’t apply for a security clearance on your own. Applicants must be sponsored by the federal government or a company with a contract requiring classified work. 1  When you’re applying for a federal government job, the background check process will start after you have accepted a tentative job offer.

Can a naturalized citizen get a security clearance?

You may be a naturalized citizen, but you can’t be an illegal immigrant or green card holder. Outside of citizenship, there is only one thing that is an automatic disqualifier for obtaining a federal security clearance – that is current, ongoing use of an illegal drug.

Can you get a security clearance if you are an illegal immigrant?

You may be a naturalized citizen, but you can’t be an illegal immigrant or green card holder. Outside of citizenship, there is only one thing that is an automatic disqualifier for obtaining a federal security clearance – that is current, ongoing use of an illegal drug. That’s thanks to the Bond Amendment, which became law in 2008.