Security Clearance Handbook

Security Clearance Handbook 2013

Compiled by the University of Fairfax*

*Compiled by the University of Fairfax , defense security experts, OPM, U.S.

Department of State, NIPSOM, www.ClearanceJobs.com and other resources.

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PREFACE

The U.S. faces a growing shortage of InfoSec professionals holding security clearances
to fight the war on the ever evolving, and increasing CyberSecurity Threats in complexity,
severity and frequency. Maintaining or obtaining a security clearance can accelerate
your InfoSec career in both the public and private sectors. However, many InfoSec
professionals need help with:

• Obtaining a security clearance

• Maintaining a security clearance
• Reactivating a security clearance

The University of Fairfax has compiled this comprehensive Security Clearance

Handbook with facts and FAQs including the following topics:

• Security Clearance Levels

• Security Clearance Process
• Security Clearance Denial
• Security Clearance Termination
• Security Clearance Jobs
• Security Clearance Resources

The FAQs included in this document are questions clearance candidates have asked
and we hope that they will assist you as you seek to obtain, maintain or re-activate a
security clearance.

The security clearance process includes an alphabet soup of acronyms; in order to help
you better understand the process, we have included a definition list of acronyms as
well as a Glossary of Terms at the end of this handbook.

For information about the University of Fairfax MS/Doctoral CyberSecurity degree

programs, graduate certificates, NSA 4011/4012 Certifications and complimentary
CISSP preparation tools, please visit www.ufairfax.edu or email
[email protected].

DISCLAIMER

The University of Fairfax Security Clearance Handbook was developed to provide basic information about
security clearances. This Handbook is not intended to be an in-depth analysis of security clearances nor
should it be considered as a replacement for the experience and knowledge of security clearance experts or
Security Officers. The Handbook contains a compilation of information describing the U.S. security clearance
process; however because regulations change, the information herein is subject to change at any time without
notice. The University of Fairfax bears no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained in the
Handbook.

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Table of Contents

OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................................... 1
SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVELS ......................................................................................... 4
SECURITY CLEARANCE PROCESS ..................................................................................... 7
U.S. CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT ..................................................................................... 14
SECURITY CLEARANCE DENIAL ....................................................................................... 16
SECURITY CLEARANCE TERMINATION .......................................................................... 19
CLEARANCE RECIPROCITY ................................................................................................ 19
PREVIOUSLY HELD CLEARANCES ................................................................................... 20
FACILITY CLEARANCES ....................................................................................................... 21
SECURITY CLEARANCE JOBS ........................................................................................... 23
SECURITY CLEARANCE RESOURCES ............................................................................. 25

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OVERVIEW

A security clearance is often essential to landing a job with a government contractor or

federal agency handling sensitive information. Thousands of employers are seeking
cleared individuals to support a myriad of government agencies and programs.

Cleared job seekers will find they have a tremendous leg up on non-cleared candidates
(when competing for cleared and/or sensitive positions) and, may benefit from a salary
premium

Unfortunately, you cannot obtain a security clearance for yourself. Unfortunately, you
CANNOT obtain a security clearance for yourself. You must have a sponsor - your current
or prospective employer has to do this for you. Prepare yourself by understanding the
process so you will be ready to apply for the jobs you seek.

What is a security clearance?

A security clearance is a determination by the United States government that a person or
company is eligible for access to classified national security information. A security
clearance is confirmation of an applicant’s trustworthiness and reliability in order to be
given access to national security information.

A security clearance allows an individual filling a specific position to have access to

classified national security information up to and including the level of clearance that they
hold, so long as the person has a need to know the information. The information can be
as varied as reports about border security or details on how spy satellites work. It is
important to note that a clearance is not a blanket authorization to view all classified
information; it simply allows you to view the classified information you need in order to do
your job.

Who needs a security clearance?

Government classified information must hold a security clearance. In addition to
government employees and defense contractors, the medical, telecommunications,
education and financial fields (to name a few) have an increasing number of jobs that also
require many of their employees to hold security clearances.

There are also many companies that seek out individuals with current security clearances
to fill positions that do not require that an individual hold a security clearance, but that do
expose that individual to highly sensitive government or company information.

Decisions regarding eligibility for access to classified information take into account factors
that could cause a conflict of interest and place a person in the position of having to
choose between his commitments to the United States and other compelling loyalties.

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The government believes that when a person’s life history shows evidence of unreliability,
or untrustworthiness, this casts doubt on whether that individual can be trusted with the
responsibility of protecting classified information.

Why is a security clearance so valuable?

Experts project that a security clearance can increase your salary anywhere from
$5,000 to $15,000, and in some cases, even more. The security clearance process can
takes months to complete, and hiring a person with a current security clearance is very
beneficial to an employer as it would allow an employer to put that person to work
immediately within the classified arena.

Former military personnel who have security clearances are very appealing to employers.
In addition to the thorough background check that has already been completed, these
employees are viewed as being disciplined, dependable and as having strong leadership
skills - priceless attributes in today's market.

A security clearance is often essential to landing a job with government contractors or

federal agencies that handle sensitive information. Since the creation of the Department
of Homeland Security and the huge demand for cyber security work, there has never
been a greater demand for employees to work on classified programs. Therefore, cleared
candidates will find that they have a tremendous advantage over non-cleared candidates
(when competing for cleared and/or sensitive positions) in the hiring process and will,
more than likely, enjoy increased salary benefits as well.

What is involved in obtaining a security clearance?

There are three main phases in the process to obtain a security clearance:

1. The first phase is the application process. This involves verification of U.S.
citizenship, fingerprinting and completion of the Personnel Security Questionnaire (SF-
86).
2. The second phase is the actual investigation of your background. Currently, most
(approximately 95%) background checks are conducted by the Office of Personnel
Management (OPM).
3. The third and final phase is the adjudication phase. In this phase, the results of the
investigative phase are reviewed. Specifically, the information that has been gathered is
evaluated against thirteen criteria developed by DoD. These factors include: allegiance to
the United States, criminal/ personal conduct, substance abuse and mental disorders.
Clearance is granted or denied following the adjudication process.

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Who issues security clearances?

The Department of Defense issues approximately 80% of all clearances (Confidential (C),
Secret (S), Top Secret (TS)) granted.

The other approximate 20% are issued by various other U.S. Government entities,
including but not limited to the following:

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Department of Energy (DoE),
Department of Justice (DoJ),
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
Others

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SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVELS

What are the levels of security clearance?

A Confidential security clearance is the lowest level clearance classification. It provides
access to information that reasonably could be expected to cause damage to national
security if disclosed to unauthorized sources. A confidential clearance must be renewed
every 15 years. Each renewal requires a reinvestigation.

A Secret (S) security provides access to information that reasonably could be expected
to cause serious damage to national security if disclosed to unauthorized sources. An
individual holding a Secret clearance must be reinvestigated every 10 years for as long as
that individual continues to require access to classified information at the Secret level.

A Top Secret (TS) security clearance is given to workers who have access to
information that could cause exceptionally grave damage to national security if released
to unauthorized sources. Those individuals holding Top Secret clearances must be
reinvestigated every five years.

Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) is considered by

many to be the highest level of security clearance (although SCI is technically an
“Access”). and is given to workers handling Top secret information within compartmented
channels.

In other words, SCI access is permitted in compartments. These compartments are

separated from one another within an organization, so an individual with access to one
compartment does not necessarily have access to another. Access is granted on a case-
by-case basis for varying lengths of time. Moreover, each compartment may include its
own additional special requirements and clearance process.
In matters concerning intelligence, whether in the public or private sectors,
compartmentalization of information is the limiting of access to information to persons who
directly need to know such information in order to perform specific tasks.

The rationale for compartmentalization is that the fewer the number of people who know
the details of a mission or task, the lower the risk or likelihood that such information could
be compromised or falls into the hands of the opposition.

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What are active, current and expired clearances?

An active clearance is considered as one in which the individual is presently eligible to
access classified information. It is, simply put, a clearance that has not been terminated.
A current clearance is one in which an individual has (within the last 24 months) been
determined eligible for access to classified information but whose clearance has been
terminated and requires a reinstatement in order to actually be given access. An
individual’s clearance may remain in current status for 24 months before it moves to
expired status.

An expired clearance refers to a clearance that has not been active or current for the last
24 months or more and as such cannot be reinstated. Both active and current clearances
are easily transferred from one employer to another. Once a clearance has expired, a
candidate must again be sponsored by a government entity or a cleared contractor, then
resubmit a clearance application and go through a new investigation to have a clearance
newly granted.

PLEASE NOTE: DoD policy does not allow clearances to be reinstated/reactivated

after 24 months of inactivity.

What is a collateral clearance?

The term collateral clearance is used to describe a security clearance without any special
access authorizations or SCI requirements. Information that exists within the domain of
informal need-to-know determinations is referred to as “collateral classified” information.

Information that requires a formal need-to-know determination (also known as a special

access authorization) exists within Special Access Programs (SAP) and Sensitive
Compartmented Information (SCI).

What is a clearance with a “caveat?”

A clearance level with a with a caveat (i.e. ATOMAL, CNWDI, COMSEC, COSMIC,
CRYPTO, NOFORN, ORCON, SAP, SCI, RD, SIOP-ESI, SPECAT, SIOP-ESI) will denote
classified information that requires a special access or that requires special and specific
handling procedures before access can be granted to an individual. In order to have the
special access, the cleared individual usually receives a special briefing related to the
caveat.

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What is an interim security clearance?

An interim clearance is an (pre-Final) eligibility determination (which is granted after the
Government has completed its initial minimum investigative requirements) that allows a
person to have access to collateral classified information (at the Final level requested),
while his or her final clearance/eligibility is being processed. An interim clearance is the
first step toward obtaining a final clearance and is issued fairly quickly for eligibility at the
Secret level or below.

NOTE: an interim clearance is not recognized by all Government entities (because the
investigation and adjudication have not been fully completed).

However, even if the interim clearance is approved, the issuance of a final clearance is
not guaranteed. An interim clearance may also be denied; however, denial of an interim
clearance does not mean that a final clearance cannot be issued. The denial of an interim
clearance indicates that there is something on the application that must first be reviewed
and investigated fully.

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SECURITY CLEARANCE PROCESS

Can I obtain a security clearance on my own?

No. You must be sponsored by a government contractor or government entity and
conduct business that justifies being granted access to highly sensitive information.

Do I need to be currently employed by a government

contractor?
In order to obtain a security clearance you must be working for a government contractor
or sub-contractor or be directly employed by the federal government. The employer must
submit the individual for a clearance. Employers are prohibited from submitting a person
for clearance unless the employee is currently working for them and requires access to
classified information, or the individual has been formally offered such employment,
accepted the offer, and will come aboard in the near future.

How long does it take to process a security clearance?

The length of time varies (it could be as little as a month or as long as 18 months) widely
depending upon the level of clearance and the unique life and circumstances of each
individual.

The security clearance process has three distinct parts: pre-investigation (filling out the
appropriate forms, being fingerprinted and providing proof of U.S. citizenship); the
investigation (the Office of Personnel Management conducts the background check on
the individual), and adjudication where the investigation results are reviewed along with
other information which is then used to make a determination on whether to grant or not
grant the clearance.

What type of information is requested on a security

clearance application?
The amount and detail of information varies with the level of clearance sought. It may
include family information, past and current work history, locations you have lived, names
of roommates, financial history, criminal history, travel history, groups or affiliations, use of
illegal drugs, use of alcohol and more.

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How are security clearance investigations conducted?

Agents or contract agents with the Office of Personnel Management use both electronic
and direct contact to investigate each clearance candidate. The Defense Security
Service (DSS) no longer conducts personnel clearance investigations on Federal
contractors.

The Office of Personnel Management conducts the investigation based on the information
provided by the applicant on a Standard Form 86 (SF86), "Questionnaire for National
Security Positions." The SF86 is provided to the applicant by his/her employer. The type
and scope of investigation conducted depends upon the level of clearance required.
Higher clearances require more in-depth investigations.

NOTE: OPM merely conducts the investigations, they do not adjudicate (make a
clearance determination on) the investigation.

What types of information does OPM gather when it

conducts an investigation?
A security clearance investigation is an inquiry into an individual’s loyalty, character,
trustworthiness and reliability to ensure that he or she is eligible for access to national
security information. The investigation focuses on an individual’s character and conduct,
and personal history; emphasizing such factors as honesty, trustworthiness, reliability,
financial responsibility, criminal activity, emotional stability, and other similar and pertinent
areas. All investigations consist of checks of national records and credit checks; some
investigations also include interviews with individuals who know the candidate for the
clearance as well as interviews with candidate himself/herself.

What is the investigative process?

A personnel security investigation (PSI) consists of one or more of the following inquiries:

 A National Agency Check (NAC) -- A search of investigative files and other records
held by federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and
the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
 A Local Agency Check (LAC) -- A review of appropriate criminal history records
held by local law enforcement agencies, such as police departments and sheriffs,
with jurisdiction over the areas where you have resided, gone to school, or worked.
 Credit/Financial checks.
 Field interviews of references to include co-workers, employers, personal friends,
educators, neighbors, and other appropriate individuals.
 Checks of records held by employers, courts, and rental offices.
 A subject interview-- An interview with you by an investigator.

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These inquiries are performed by one or more investigators who work in the geographic
area where the information is to be obtained. NACs, however, may be performed
electronically from a central location.

What is a National Agency Check, Local Agency/Credit

check Background Investigation (NACLC)?
An NACLC is the type of investigation required for a Secret or Confidential clearance for
military and contractor personnel. It includes a credit bureau report and a review of
records held by federal agencies and by local criminal justice agencies. It generally does
not require an interview with an investigator. The investigation typically covers the past
ten years (though some questions/areas on the SF-86 will ask you have you “Ever”…) of
a person’s life or a shorter period if the applicant is less than 25 years old.

What is a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI)?

An SSBI is a more detailed investigation and is required for a Top Secret investigation. It
includes all of the following: an NACLC, an Enhanced Subject Interview (ESI), interviews
of former spouses; interviews of character, employment, neighborhood, and educational
references; reviews of residence, employment, and academic records.

What is a Trustworthiness Investigation?

A trustworthiness investigation is not conducted for a security clearance. It is requested
when an applicant is going to have access to sensitive but unclassified Information, but
may also be conducted on those that may only simply need access to a sensitive site
(e.g., cleaning crew on a military installation).

Many Trustworthiness investigations will be conducted as an MBI (Minimum Background

Investigation). The MBI consists of a National Agency Check (NAC) which is a search of
investigative files and other records held by federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau
of Investigations (FBI) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM); a credit search;
written inquiries; and record searches covering specific areas of a subject's background
during the past five years. Telephone inquiries are made on selected employments,
whenever initial inquiries are not returned and information is needed to resolve an
issue(s).

Who should I name as references and what will the

references be asked?
You should name people who have known you well over a significant period of your life.
They will be asked to describe you and your way of life, attitudes, abilities, honesty,
reliability, trustworthiness, family background, neighborhood activities, etc. They will also
be asked their opinion on whether you should be given access to classified information or
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assigned to a sensitive position or position of trust. Essentially, the investigator will be

trying to verify the information you provided in your security forms as well as collect
additional information about you.

Do I have to be interviewed as part of the clearance

process?
Subject interviews are an integral part of many PSIs (personnel security investigations)
conducted by OPM, but not all investigations will require a subject interview. Your
participation is completely voluntary. However, without the interview (if required), OPM will
be unable to conduct and complete a thorough investigation on your background and an
adjudicator will not be able to determine your suitability to access classified information or
be assigned to a sensitive position or position of trust. As a result, you will be denied a
security clearance or an appointment to a sensitive position.

What will I be asked at the interview?

The objective of the subject interview is to obtain a complete picture of you as an
individual so that an adjudicator can determine whether you will be able to safeguard
classified or sensitive information without becoming a security risk. Therefore, the
interview will be wide-ranging and cover many aspects of your life.

During the subject interview, expect to be questioned about your family background, past
experiences, health, use of alcohol or drugs, financial affairs, foreign travel, and other
pertinent matters. Remember, all these questions are asked for a purpose. The
investigator is experienced in conducting these interviews. Be as truthful as possible. The
investigator will try to put you at ease if you become upset or uncomfortable. It is in your
best interest to answer the investigator's questions in order for an adjudicator to reach a
valid decision on your suitability to access classified information or to be appointed to a
sensitive position or position of trust.

Should I keep quiet about something in my past and hope

no one finds out?
If you conceal information on your security form or during your subject interview, an
adjudicator may determine that you are unreliable and dishonest. In fact, your clearance
could be denied for withholding information or for purposely lying, even though what you
were seeking to conceal would not normally have resulted in an unfavorable clearance
determination.

Even if you obtain a clearance or are assigned to a sensitive position or position of trust,
the initial adjudicative decision could be overturned at a later date if it is revealed that you
lied or concealed information during the PSI. Federal agencies generally fire or disqualify
employees who have materially and deliberately falsified such information. In addition, if

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you knowingly and willfully make material false statements during a PSI, you may be
subject to prosecution for violating Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 1001.

NOTE: If you realize after you have submitted the form that you have made a mistake or
omitted something important, please tell your Security Officer, and also mention (in case
he or she has not received the updated information) it to your DSS Investigator when you
are interviewed. If you do not do so, the error or omission could be held against you
during the adjudicative process.

What are polygraphs?

Polygraphs are instruments used to help determine an individual’s eligibility for access to
classified information. They measure physiological responses (respiration, pulse, blood
pressure, and galvanic resistance) to stress. Polygraphs are used to help determine an
individual’s eligibility for a special assignment or access to specifically designated
information such as SCI or within SAPs. The polygraph may or may not be used in a
particular clearance investigation.

What are the differences between Counter-Intelligence,

Lifestyle, and Full Scope Polygraphs?
The purpose of a polygraph is to determine, to the greatest extent possible, whether or
not a given applicant can be trusted with sensitive information. Two types (Counter-
Intelligence and Lifestyle) of polygraphs exist, and either one or both polygraphs may be
administered to the candidate in question. Polygraphs are conducted by trained polygraph
examiners who have been trained to administer them.

A Counter Intelligence Polygraph asks the candidate questions limited to the subject’s
allegiance to the U.S. The questions are based on various areas of concern including but
not limited to: Espionage, Sabotage, Terrorist Activities, foreign contacts, foreign
associations, etc. A counter Intelligence Polygraph is the most common polygraph type
given.

A Lifestyle Polygraph asks the candidate questions that concern the subject’s personal
life and conduct and can involve all aspects of present and past behavior. Questions
asked might concern drug and alcohol use, sexual preference and behavior, mental
health, family relationships, compulsive or addictive behavior, and more. A Lifestyle
Polygraph attempts to look for issues in a person’s private life for which might make the
candidate vulnerable to blackmail.

A Full Scope Polygraph is a combination of both the Counter Intelligence and Lifestyle
Polygraphs.

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What safeguards are in place to ensure accuracy and

protect my privacy?
All personnel involved in the PSI or adjudication process must meet the highest standards
of integrity and personal conduct. All information received during the course of a PSI is
scrupulously protected under the Privacy Act of 1974 and other applicable laws and
statutes of the United States.

Why do some clearance investigations take longer than

others?
Your request for a clearance investigation may be delayed before it gets to OPM because
of internal processing requirements of the requester. Incomplete or inaccurate completion
of your security forms also delays an investigation. In other cases an investigation takes
more time due to special situations such as the need to cover multiple geographic areas,
especially overseas locations; difficulty in locating records and people who know you;
and, expanding the investigation to clear up discrepancies or issues. Remember, each
person’s investigation is different than anyone else’s and various timeframes to complete
them should not be compared.

What can I do to expedite the processing of my clearance

application?
Some of the most common reasons for delay in processing applications include the
submission of incomplete information, poorly collected fingerprints, and investigations that
involve extensive overseas activities. You can help OPM complete your investigation as
quickly as possible by doing the following:

 Provide accurate information on your Security Forms. Provide all information

required by the forms and follow the instructions.
 Be as specific as possible. General entries, such as listing your employment as
the U.S. Navy, should be avoided; list your actual duty station(s) and the dates
assigned to each location.
 Keep your Security Officer apprised of changes in your duty location if you
are in the military. If you expect to transfer from your employment location within 60
days following the completion of your forms, you should enter the location of your
next duty station and anticipated arrival date on your security form. Additionally, if
you are a candidate for a Top Secret clearance or for access to Sensitive
Compartmented Information, you should contact your Security Officer if you are
relocating and have not yet been contacted for a personal interview your Security
Officer will notify OPM.
 When possible, provide stateside references that can verify foreign activities.

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Will I be told whether a clearance has been granted?

Yes, typically, a favorable investigation and adjudication will result in certain procedures
being taken by your organization (for example, security briefings, access badges, etc.). If
you are not notified of these types of events, you should contact your Security Officer.

What is a Periodic Reinvestigation (PR)?

It is a re-investigation of an individual holding an active security clearance. A PR is done
to ensure that a candidate should still have continued access to classified information.

How often will a Periodic Investigation (PR) be conducted

on me?
After the initial PSI is completed, a Periodic Reinvestigation (PR) is required every 5 years
for an individual holding an active Top Secret clearance, every 10 years for an individual
holding an active Secret clearance, and every 15 years for an individual who holds an
active Confidential clearance. However, civilian and military personnel of DoD can be
randomly reinvestigated before they are due for a PR.

I was in the military and had a security clearance. How can

I prove that I had one? I don't have access to those records
anymore.
All information associated with a clearance is tracked through your social security number
with date and city of birth used as preliminary confirmation. You would have to have your
employer’s security officer check the status of your past eligibility and access. This is not
something you will be able to do.

How long is a military security clearance valid/active? How

do updates happen?
A military security clearance is valid/active-- subject to periodic reinvestigations—in most
cases, for as long as you are in the military. After you are released from the military, it is
terminated but your eligibility remains current for two years; your clearance can be
reinstated within those two years. At the end of two years, it automatically becomes
inactive and you are required to begin a new application process when a company
requiring a clearance has hired you.

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What if my job/training requires me to have a clearance

immediately?
If your technical training requires access to classified information, you may be assigned to
do non clearance requiring duties in support of a particular program while waiting for your
security clearance to be granted. In some cases, you may be authorized to attend non-
classified portions of the training while awaiting the results of your security clearance
application. There are circumstances where military commanders can authorize an
"interim clearance" which allows access to classified information while waiting for the
official clearance to be approved.

U.S. CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT

Is proof of U.S. Citizenship required?

Yes, the contractor must require each applicant for a Personnel Security Clearance (PCL)
to provide proof of U.S. citizenship before the clearance process can begin.

What is acceptable proof of U.S. citizenship?

a. For individuals born in the United States, a birth certificate is the primary and
preferred means of citizenship verification. Acceptable certificates must show that
the birth record was filed shortly after birth and it must be certified with the
registrar's signature. It must bear the raised, impressed, or multicolored seal of the
registrar's office. The only exception is if a state or other jurisdiction does not issue
such seals. As a matter of policy, uncertified copies of birth certificates are not
acceptable.

A delayed birth certificate is one created when a record was filed more than one year after
the date of birth. Such a certificate is acceptable if it shows that the report of birth was
supported by acceptable secondary evidence of birth. Secondary evidence may include:
baptismal or circumcision certificates, hospital birth records, or affidavits of persons
having personal knowledge about the facts of birth. Other documentary evidence can be
early census, school, or family bible records, newspaper files, or insurance papers. All
documents submitted as evidence of birth in the U.S. shall be original or certified
documents.

b. If the individual claims citizenship by naturalization, a certificate of naturalization is

acceptable proof of citizenship.
c. If citizenship was acquired by birth abroad to a U.S. citizen parent or parents, the
following are acceptable evidence:
(1) A Certificate of Citizenship issued by the Immigration and Naturalization
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Service (INS); or
(2) A Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America
(Form FS-240); or
(3) A Certificate of Birth (Form FS-545 or DS-1350).

d. A passport, current or expired, is acceptable proof of citizenship.

Note: expired passports are being slowly phased out as proof of U.S.
Citizenship

e. A Record of Military Processing-Armed Forces of the United States (DD Form

1966) is acceptable proof of citizenship, provided it reflects U.S. citizenship.

I am an immigrant alien in the United States and my work

may require me to visit some defense contractor sites. Is it
possible for me to get a security clearance?
Only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance. However, if compelling reasons
exist to grant access to classified information to an immigrant alien or a foreign national,
such persons may be granted a "Limited Access Authorization" (LAA). LAAs are limited to
individuals whose special skills or technical expertise is essential to the fulfillment of a
DoD requirement, which cannot reasonably be performed by a cleared or clearable U.S.
citizen.

If an LAA is granted, the classified information to which the non-U.S. citizen may have
access must be approved for release to the person’s country or countries of citizenship.
Access shall be limited or related to a specific program or project, and the LAA shall be
canceled upon completion of the program or project for which it was approved, or re-
justified. All potentially cleared individuals must be employed in a job, which requires
access to classified information and must be nominated for clearance by their employer.
The employer must submit a request for investigation, and the completed investigation
must be reviewed by an adjudicative body, which has the power to grant or deny
clearances. The employing agency or company will then be sent a letter of clearance
informing them that the nominated employee has been cleared for access (to whatever
level is appropriate).

Can non-US citizens obtain security clearances?

Yes, although this is extremely rare. In extremely special circumstances and only with the
permission of the government entity owning the classified information a non-US citizen
could obtain a clearance. This person would be a world-class scientist, dignitary, or other
high level friend of the US government.

Can a naturalized person get a security clearance?

Yes. A naturalized person is to be treated as a US citizen. However, the naturalized
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person may have to provide information on his or her clearance application regarding
foreign relatives, associations, etc.

I am interested in finding out if being married to a foreign

national will automatically disqualify me from receiving a
security clearance in the future. How will this affect my
ability to obtain a clearance? Will it make a difference if she
opts to become a U.S. citizen?
The Office of Personnel Management conducts background investigations on persons
whose employment requires them to be cleared as eligible to have access to Confidential,
Secret, Top Secret (TS) and/or Special Compartmented Information (SCI). They do not
make the decision whether a person meets the eligibility requirements and should be
given access. This decision is made by various adjudicative bodies, depending on the
applicant’s employer (i.e., DoD contractor, Army, Navy, Air Force, DHS, etc.).

Each adjudicative body follows uniform regulatory guidelines in making clearance

eligibility determinations, and these guidelines do not necessarily disqualify an individual
based on their having a foreign national spouse. Each case is investigated and evaluated
on its own merits. If it is determined that the spouse would not constitute a security risk, a
clearance will be granted assuming no other disqualifying factors. It should be noted,
however, that anyone requiring SCI eligibility is also subject to some additional
requirements beyond those for Confidential, Secret and TS.

SECURITY CLEARANCE DENIAL

For what reasons could an individual be denied a security

clearance?
Clearance adjudicators use a documented guide and “formula” to determine whether or
not an individual is eligible for a security clearance. They look at and for many things such
as honesty, trustworthiness, character, loyalty, financial responsibility, and reliability in an
applicant. In cases which contain significant derogatory information, further investigation
is usually required.

There are, however, five circumstances which have in many instances (but not all)
resulted in the denial of a clearance:
 The applicant has been convicted of a crime and sentenced to prison for more than
one year (especially true for those seeking to obtain a Top Secret clearance-the
recency of the conviction can also play a part)
 An applicant is (currently) an illegal user of, or is addicted to, a controlled
substance;
 The subject is proven to be mentally incompetent;
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 The individual has been discharged or dismissed from the armed forces under
dishonorable conditions;
 The subject holds dual citizenship and is unwilling to renounce the citizenship of
the non U.S. country.

When there is an issue which requires more review, the paperwork is forwarded to the
Department of Hearing and Appeals (DOHA) for further processing. DOHA compiles the
information, provides its recommendation and returns the application to the requesting
government agency for a final decision. Once the decision is made, the applicant is
notified.

**NOTE: Employers and security officers are “NOT” adjudicators, and cannot
make a definitive determination as to whether an individual applying for a
clearance will be granted that clearance or if that individual will be denied being
granted a security clearance.

Can I appeal a clearance denial?

Yes. If you are notified of intent to deny or revoke your security clearance, you have the
right to appeal this determination. Procedures regarding filing an appeal will be provided
to you at that time.

Recently I was denied an interim clearance. Can I apply

again to clarify some information? How many times can I
apply for a clearance?
The interim clearance is the first step toward obtaining a final clearance and is issued
fairly quickly. An interim is issued once a review of the application is completed and the
candidate is determined eligible. Interim clearances can be denied as yours was.

Technically interim clearances are not “denied;” they are “declined.” The government
doesn’t have to give you a reason for an interim clearance declination. But for SF86
purposes you do not have to list the “declination” of an interim clearance. A denial,
however, does not mean that a final clearance will not be issued. It means there is
something on the application, which must be first reviewed and investigated fully.

You would not actually apply for the clearance yourself--as an individual cannot apply for
a clearance. You must be sponsored by a government contractor or government entity.
There are no restrictions on how many times you can be sponsored for a clearance,
although if you receive a “Final” denial of clearance you are barred from reapplying for a
clearance for a period of 1 year. Any denial of clearance should be discussed with your
Security officer.

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Will my bankruptcy or foreclosure automatically prevent me

from obtaining a clearance?
A bankruptcy or foreclosure will not automatically prevent one from obtaining or
maintaining a security clearance. There are many conditions surrounding financial
hardships that can often mitigate security concerns.

The guideline for financial considerations focuses primarily on individuals who are
financially overextended because they may be at risk of engaging in illegal acts to
generate funds. For instance, financial guidelines consider whether "the conditions that
resulted in the financial problem were largely beyond the person's control...and whether
the individual acted responsibly under the circumstances." Adjudicators identify such
conditions as mitigating circumstances.

For example, if an individual did not have financial problems in the past, yet was forced
into foreclosure because of a permanent change of station, adjudicators would consider
this a mitigating circumstance. However, if the individual has a history of not meeting
financial obligations and now forecloses on a home, this would display a pattern of
financial irresponsibility that cannot be easily mitigated.

In my past, I was a recreational user of certain illegal

narcotics, which mainly included marijuana. I smoked
marijuana regularly for approximately four years. I was
never involved in the distribution or selling of narcotics. I
have not used drugs for over two years now nor do I ever
intend to use any illegal substance again. I would be willing
to submit to a polygraph test to confirm this. My financial
and criminal backgrounds are completely clean, without
blemish. I graduated from college with honors and have a
solid work history. Will my past drug experience seriously
affect my chances of getting a security clearance? If so, is
there anything I can do to remedy this?
Any drug use can significantly impact getting a security clearance. It is always best to
admit that you have used drugs however. If the investigators find that you have used
drugs and you have denied it, then your chances of being granted a security clearance
will be significantly decreased. It can take up to seven years after drug use to be eligible
for a clearance, depending on the Agency doing the investigation, the level of clearance

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that you are trying to obtain and the types and timeframes of the drug use.

What if I have had some mental health issues?

Executive Order 12968, Access to Classified Information states mental health counseling
in and of itself is not a reason to revoke or deny a security clearance.

SECURITY CLEARANCE TERMINATION

Under what circumstances will a clearance be terminated?

The contractor shall terminate a Personnel Security Clearance (PCL):
1. Upon termination of employment; or
2. When the need for access to classified information is no longer required for a
cleared individual.

Can a clearance be reinstated?

A Personal Security Clearance (PCL) can be reinstated provided that not more than 24
months have elapsed since the date of termination of the clearance.

CLEARANCE RECIPROCITY

I am a computer administrator who might require

clearances for other federal agencies within this next year,
due to the systems I work on. Will this Top Secret (TS) SCI
clearance be recognized by any other federal agencies, or
is it just internal to agency I am working for?
On 24 Mar 1997, the President of the United States approved Common Adjudicative
Guidelines, Temporary Eligibility Standards and Investigative Standards. The minimum
investigative standards approved in March 1997 were established for all U.S. Government
civilian and military personnel, consultants, contractors, employees of contractors,
licensees, certificate holders or grantees and their employees and other individuals who
require access to classified information, to include Sensitive Compartmented Information
(SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAPs), and are to be used by the government
departments and agencies as the investigative basis for final clearance determinations.
Since these standards were designed to be the basis for reciprocity in government-wide
security practices, any government agency should accept any investigation done
according to those standards as being adequate for granting a clearance (including SCI).

Depending on the age of the investigation and other special factors determined by various
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special projects, however, other government agencies may want to obtain updated
information concerning the period since your last investigation prior to granting access. A
copy of the prior investigation and/or some additional investigative work may also be
required based on special project needs.

PREVIOUSLY HELD CLEARANCES

I had a Secret security clearance issued around 1983 or

1984. I have not used it, nor have I been in the employ of
the original sponsor, since about 1987. I am normally
employed as contract labor. What must I do in order to
become recertified? What is the shortest period of time in
which I can become recertified?
A clearance cannot be reinstated if 24 months or more have elapsed since the end of the
employment, which involved classified access. Also, an individual cannot request a
security clearance. The employer must make the request based on a requirement for
access to classified information.

I would like to reinstate/upgrade an employee’s Top Secret

(TS) clearance. My company has continuously employed
him since he was downgraded for administrative purposes
18 months ago. He currently holds a Secret level clearance,
and his date of investigation was within the last five years.
Does the employee need to have a new investigation?
What information is required?
Since the employee has remained with the same employer since last holding the TS
clearance, had the appropriate background investigation for TS clearance within the last
five years, and has still been holding a clearance downgraded to Secret, the TS clearance
may be reinstated. The NISPOM, 2-217, states: "A PCL can be reinstated provided (a) No
more than 24 months has lapsed since the date of termination of the clearance; (b) there
is no known adverse information; (c) The most recent investigation must not exceed 5
years (TS, Q) or 10 years (Secret, L); and (d) Must meet or exceed the scope of the
investigation required for the level of PCL that is to be reinstated or granted. A PCL can
be reinstated at the same or lower level. "

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I worked as an Air Force civilian from 1985 to Present. Who

would my current employer contact to verify my clearance?
Also, is it true that the clearance may be reinstated for up to
one year after being debriefed?
Your Air Force clearance can be converted to an industrial clearance, provided that: the
investigation on which your Air Force clearance was based meets the standards
prescribed for the required industrial clearance; there is no indication of adverse
information; and no more than 24 months have elapsed since the date it was terminated.

FACILITY CLEARANCES

What is a Facility Clearance?

A facility clearance (FCL) is an administrative determination that a facility is eligible for
access to classified information or award of a classified contract. Contract award may be
made prior to the issuance of an FCL. However, in those cases, the contractor will be
processed for an FCL at the appropriate level and must meet eligibility requirements for
access to classified information. The FCL requirement for a prime contractor includes
those instances in which all classified access will be limited to subcontractors. Contractors
are eligible for custody (possession) of classified material, if they have an FCL and
storage capability approved by the CSA.

a. An FCL is valid for access to classified information at the same, or lower, classification
level as the FCL granted.
b. FCL’s will be registered centrally by the U.S. Government.
c. A contractor shall not use its FCL for advertising or promotional purposes.

How does a company get a facility clearance (FCL)?

A company must be sponsored by a government agency or a cleared contractor for a
facility clearance. A contractor cannot sponsor itself for a facility clearance.

How does a customer sponsor a company for a FCL?

Sponsorship is in the form of a letter to the Defense Industrial Security Clearance Office
(DISCO) requesting that a particular company be processed for a clearance because the
sponsoring company wants to subcontract the sponsored company to assist in supporting
a cleared customer contract. The letter provides the prospective company’s name,
address, phone number, point of contact and how the subcontractor’s services will be
used in support of the cleared customer. It should also provide the classified contract
number, facility clearance level and the requestor’s point of contact and phone number.

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Who has to be cleared in connection with a FCL?

Ordinarily, those (the principals) that have control over the company (e.g., the CEO,
President, Executive VP and/or other officers or board members) and the Facility Security
Officer must be cleared. Those individuals cleared in connection with a FCL are called
Key Management Personnel (KMP).

What happens if a “controlling” officer cannot be cleared in

connection with the FCL?
If possible, steps may be taken to formally exclude the officer from controlling access or
having access to classified information. The Industrial Security (IS) Rep will work with the
facility security POC to determine methods which may be used to exclude the officer. If no
methods are acceptable then the facility may not be eligible for a FCL.

What is a Facility Security Officer (FSO)?

The FSO is a Key Management Personnel (KMP) who has responsibility over the facility’s
security program.

Does the FSO have to have a clearance? What level?

Yes. The FSO must have a clearance at the same level as the FCL.

How does a company get a Top Secret FCL?

A company must be sponsored by a Top Secret FCL even if it already has a lower level
FCL. The customer must follow the same sponsorship procedures and all KMP (key
management personnel) must be upgraded, as well.

What is a Contract Security Classification Specification,

DD Form 254, and how does it relate to an FCL?
A DD Form 254 is issued when classified work is contracted to a facility and it provides
the security classification and safeguarding requirements to be applied to information. The
federal agency or cleared contractor issues the 254 to the contracted facility and justifies
the need for a FCL. A DD Form 254 is necessary to maintain an active FCL.

How many DD Form 254s does a facility have to have?

Once the first DD Form 254 is issued to a facility, that facility can have an unlimited
number of 254s; either from contracts granted to that facility by the same government

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customer or granted by other government entities. A DD Form 254, however, cannot be

issued at a classification requirement higher than that of the facility’s FCL. If so, the facility
must be sponsored and processed for a FCL upgrade.

What is the National Industrial Security Program (NISP)?

The NISP is the industrial security program regulated by DoD. In addition to Department
of Defense agencies, there are 23 additional federal government participants. The main
regulation document under the NISP for cleared contractors is the National Industrial
Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM). The Defense Security Service (DSS) has
primary responsibility for monitoring NISP compliance.

I am a member of a small software development contracting

firm that is exploring how to get our employees a top secret
clearance for classified government work. Can you provide
us with a contact to learn how to do this?
You can either obtain a contract from a government agency that requires a security
clearance or obtain a sub-contract from a prime contractor that requires a security
clearance. Additionally, you may want to contact the Office of Small Disadvantaged
Business Utilization (SADBU) at the DoD who can further guide you through the process.

SECURITY CLEARANCE JOBS

Where can I search for jobs that require an active or current

security clearance?
Candidates with active clearances can search for jobs that make use of that clearance at
ClearanceJobs.com (http://www.clearancejobs.com),
http://www.taonline.com/securityclearances/ and other job search sites.

If I don't have a security clearance, where can I find

employers that might be able to sponsor me to receive
one?
Candidates without clearances can search for jobs that require applicants who are willing
to apply for a clearance or who are eligible for a clearance at Internet-based job boards
such as Dice.com (for IT candidates), Monster.com (all professions), and HotJobs.com
(all professions) etc.

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Why is it an advantage to have a security clearance when

job hunting?
People who have a security clearance enjoy a BIG advantage when it's time to go job
hunting, since getting a clearance is difficult and time-consuming, particularly for
employers who may have to pay some employees’ salaries while those employees await
their clearances. Other employers cannot afford to hire and wait for a clearance to be
granted; they may need someone coming in the door with a current clearance that can be
reinstated immediately.

Clearance investigations are completed at no-charge to Federal contractors. This though

is not always true for all Government entities, some of whom may be charged back for
clearance investigations completed on their behalf by OPM or other investigative
agencies. So, when a government employer would have to pay to have an investigation
completed on a potential new hire that employer may very well choose a candidate who
has an active clearance or a clearance that can be reinstated, thus potentially saving
thousands of dollars.

What is the best way of getting a security clearance that is

not offered by my current job?
If your current employer does not offer cleared positions, your best bet is to find a
company that does both classified and unclassified work and apply for a job there that
deals with unclassified work. Once you are hired, you can then apply for positions that
require your skills and that also require you to have a clearance.

Is it worth applying for a job requiring a clearance even if I

don’t have one?
Yes, lack of a clearance shouldn’t stop you from seeking a job that requires one. If you
don’t have a clearance, the company may hire you, start the clearance process and have
you work on other projects until your clearance is approved.

Avoid Scams!
Experts warn job seekers about recruiting firms, attorneys or other companies that
promise to obtain a security clearance for you or “pre-approve” you for a security
clearance — for a fee. They are scams.

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SECURITY CLEARANCE RESOURCES

For more information, please consult any of the following

Resources: Government Resources

 U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Security Clearance Guide -

http://www.opm.gov/extra/investigate/security-clearance.asp
 U.S. Office of Personnel Management Q&A About Background Investigations -
http://www.opm.gov/extra/investigate/QABackground.asp
 OPM: e-QIP - http://www.opm.gov/e-QIP/index.asp
 E-GOV : E-Clearance - http://www.opm.gov/egov/e-gov/e-clearance/
 U.S. Department of State Security Clearances –
http://www.state.gov/m/ds/clearances/
 U.S. Department of State : All About Security Clearances -
http://www.state.gov/m/ds/clearances/c10978.htm
 U.S. Department of State : Security Clearance FAQs -
http://www.state.gov/m/ds/clearances/c10977.htm
 U.S. Department of State – Careers Clearance Information -
http://careers.state.gov/iraq-jobs/clearance.html
 NISPOM (National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual) -
http://nsi.org/library/govt/Nispom.html and
http://www.fas.org/sgp/library/nispom.htm

Other Resources

 A Dice Company/Clearance Jobs - http://www.ClearanceJobs.com

 About.com : US Military – Security Clearance Guidelines -
http://usmilitary.about.com/od/theorderlyroom/l/blsecmenu.htm
 TAOnline - http://www.taonline.com/securityclearances/
 Security Clearance Center – GovCentral.com -
http://www.govcentral.com/benefits/articles/2328
 Security Clearance Secrets -
http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/generalinfo/a/security.htm

Acronyms

 CIA – Central Intelligence Agency

 COMSEC – Communication Security
 DoD – U.S. Department of Defense
 DOE – U.S. Department of Energy
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 DOHA - Department of Hearing and Appeals

 DOJ – U.S. Department of Justice
 DOS – U.S. Department of State
 FOCI – Foreign Ownership, Control or Interest
 LAA - Limited Access Authorization
 LAC – Local Agency Check
 NAC – National Agency Check
 OPM – U.S. Office of Personnel Management
 PSBI – A personnel security background investigation
 PCL – Personnel Security Clearance
 PSI – Personnel Security Investigation
 PSQ - Personnel Security Questionnaire
 Q21 – Question 21
 S – Secret
 SCI – Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information
 SCIF - Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility
 SF86 - Questionnaire for National Security Positions
 SPB – Security Policy Board
 SSBI – Single Scope Background Investigation
 TS - Top Secret

Glossary of Terms

 Access - The ability and opportunity to obtain knowledge of classified information.

 Access Authorization (Security Clearance) – Authority permitting an employee
performing on government work and having need-to-know to have access to
classified information at a stipulated level of classification. Authorization for access
at one level of classified information automatically authorizes an individual for lower
levels. Active
 ACCM – Alternative or Compensatory Control Measures: ACCM are security
measures used to safeguard classified intelligence or operations and support
information when normal measures are insufficient to achieve strict need-to-know
controls and where special access program (SAP) controls are not required. ACCM
measures are defined as the maintenance of lists of personnel to whom the
specific classified information has been or may be provided together with the use
of an unclassified nickname, and "ACCM" used in conjunction with the security
classification to identify the portion, page, and document containing such specific
classified information.
 Agency – Any department or agency as defined in Section 105, Title 5, United
States Code.
 Authorized Person – A person who has a need-to-know for classified information in
the performance of official duties and who has been granted a personnel clearance
at the required level.
 Background Investigation – A personnel investigation conducted to meet the
requirements of Executive Order (E.O.) 10450 and E.O. 12968.
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 Classification Authority – The authority that is vested in a government official to

make an initial determination that information requires protection against
unauthorized disclosure in the interest of national security.
 Classified Information – Information that requires protection against unauthorized
disclosure in the interests of national security and that is classified for such
purposes by an appropriate classifying authority in accordance with the provisions
of E.O. 12958, or any successor order, or E.O. 12951, or any successor order, or
the Atomic Energy Act of 1954.
 Cleared Employees – All contractor employees granted a personnel security
clearance (PCL) and all employees in-process for a PCL.
 Confidential – The designation that shall be applied to information or material the
unauthorized disclosure of which could be reasonably expected to cause damage
to the national security that the original classification authority is able to identify or
describe.
 Consultant/Contractor – An individual performing a service under an agreement or
contract with the U.S. government.
 Credit Check – A credit check is a request for a report from a credit bureau
showing the credit status of the subject of a personnel security investigation.
 DSS – The Defense Security Service is an agency within the Department of
Defense (DoD). While they used to be tasked with primary responsibility for
conducting personnel investigations, those duties are now handled by OPM.
 DOS – U.S. Department of State: High Risk Position. The term used for a position
that meets the suitability and Information Technology (IT)/computer high-risk level
criteria as related to the efficiency of the Federal service.
 EPSQ – Electronic Personnel Security Questionnaire: Until July 2005, the EPSQ
was the electronic security clearance application used within the National Industrial
Security Program (NISP).
 e-QIP – Electronic Questionnaire for Investigations Processing: The e-QIP is the
automated request for personnel security investigations, which in July 2005
replaced the Electronic Personnel Security Questionnaire (EPSQ).
 FOCI – Foreign Ownership, Control or Influence: A contractor is determined as
having FOCI when the applicant appears to be under a level of foreign control or
influence.
 Foreign Interest – Any foreign government, agency of a foreign government, or
representative of a foreign government; any form of business enterprise or legal
entity organized, chartered or incorporated under the laws of any country other
than the U.S. or its possessions and trust territories, and any person who is not a
citizen or national of the United States.
 Foreign Nationals – Any person who is not a citizen or national of the United
States.
 InfoSec – Information Security – The result of any system of administrative policies
and procedures for identifying, controlling, and protecting from unauthorized
disclosure, information the protection of which is authorized by executive order.
 Investigative Processing – A procedure which examines an individual’s character,
reputation, fitness, loyalty, qualifications, and other pertinent factors, by personal,
written, or electronic contact with the sources of information.

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 LAA – Limited Access Authorization. Security access authorization to

CONFIDENTIAL or SECRET information granted to non-U.S. citizens requiring
such limited access in the course of their regular duties.
 LAC – Local Agency Check - A review of appropriate criminal history records held
by local law enforcement agencies, such as police departments and sheriffs, with
jurisdiction over the areas where you have resided, gone to school, or worked.
 Low Risk Position – The term used for a position that meets the suitability and
IT/computer low-risk level criteria as related to the efficiency of the Federal service.
 Moderate Risk Position – The term used for a position that meets the suitability and
IT/computer moderate-risk level criteria as related to the efficiency of the Federal
service.
 NAC – National Agency Check: A search of investigative files and other records
held by federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and
the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
 National Interest – The national interest concerns the well being and security of the
United States. It applies to the furtherance of the Nation’s foreign policy objectives
and overseas interests; protection of the Nation from internal subversion,
sabotage, espionage, and other illegal acts as well as from foreign aggression;
promotion of the domestic well-being and the economic and productive strength of
the Nation; and fulfillment of the public trust through the proper and lawful conduct
of the Government’s business.
 National Security – Refers to the national defense or foreign relations of the United
States.
 NDA – Nondisclosure Agreement: An agreement between the individual being
granted access and the U.S. government legally binding the individual to properly
safeguard, store, handle, transport or destroy classified material.
 Need To Know – In addition to a security clearance, a person must have a need to
have access to the particular classified information or material sought in connection
with the performance of his/her official duties or by contractual obligations. The
determination of that need will be made by the official(s) having responsibility for
the classified information or material.
 PSI – A PSI is an inquiry into an individual’s loyalty, character, trustworthiness and
reliability to ensure that he or she is eligible to access classified information or for
an appointment to a sensitive position or position of trust.
 PSQ – Personnel Security Questionnaire: Refers to related information forms used
for the processing of an individual for access to classified information.
 Q21 – Question 21: The mental health question on the U.S. Office of Personnel
Management Standard Form 86 (SF86) Questionnaire for National Security
Positions
 SCIF – Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility: A SCIF is a specially
constructed facility to safeguard SCI information.
 Security Clearance – An administrative determination based on the result of an
investigation that an individual is trustworthy and may be granted access to
classified information as required in the performance of assigned duties.
 SPB – Security Policy Board: The Board was established by Presidential Decision
Directive 29 to consider, coordinate, and recommend policy directives for U.S.
security policies, procedures, and practices.
© 2013 University of Fairfax. All Rights Reserved. Page 28
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22183
0 Chain Bridge Road, Suite G-100, Vienna, VA 22183
 Security Clearance Handbook

 SCI – Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information: Classified information

concerning or derived from intelligence sources, methods, or analytical processes,
which is required to be handled exclusively within formal control systems
established by the Director of Central Intelligence.
 SCIF – Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility: A SCIF is a specially
constructed facility to safeguard SCI information. DSS does not regulate or review
SCIFs; rather, the government customer owning the information performs the
oversight.
 Sensitive Positions – All positions requiring access to national security information
that are designated as either Special-Sensitive, Critical-Sensitive, or Noncritical-
Sensitive.
 SSBI – Single Scope Background Investigation - An SSBI is a more detailed
investigation and is required for a TS investigation. It includes a review of the
applicant's national and local records and an interview with an investigator. Special
Inquiry Investigation (SII) is a special investigation conducted when some type of
adverse information has been reported or discovered on a cleared individual
 TS – Top Secret: National security information or material, the unauthorized
disclosure of which reasonably could be expected to cause exceptionally grave
damage to the national security.

The University of Fairfax is pleased to have provided you with this Security
Clearance Handbook. We hope that it has answered your questions about
obtaining, maintaining or reactivating a security clearance.

For information about the University of Fairfax InfoSec MS/Doctoral degree

programs, graduate certificates, NSA 4011/4012 Certifications and complimentary
CISSP preparation tools, please visit www.ufairfax.edu.

The University of Fairfax (UoF) offers online graduate programs exclusively focused on CyberSecurity. UoF
is an independent fo r -profit institution certified by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia,
accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), which is
listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency, and is a recognized
member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), and UoF is an authorized (ISC)²®
Education Partner. The National Security Agency has authorized the University of Fairfax to award the
CNSS National Standard 4011 and 4012 certifications.

© 2013 University of Fairfax. All Rights Reserved. Page 29

1980 Gallows Rd, Suite 220, Tyson Corner, VA 22183
22183
0 Chain Bridge Road, Suite G-100, Vienna, VA 22183