How to Get Security Clearance for U.S. Citizens

If you’re actively searching for a government or state job and are a U.S. citizen, chances are you’ve come across the term ‘security clearance’ a time or two, or want to know more about how to obtain it. Here are some facts about security clearance for U.S. citizens that will help in your job search, and may even help you to get the security clearance you need at your existing job.

A security clearance is a determination, usually in written form, that a person is willing and able to protect valuable and secure national information. In order for a person to receive security clearance, an investigation has to be conducted on that person. However, the investigation is non-criminal and usually goes back about 10 years.

 
One of the best ways for U.S. citizens to get security clearance on the job is by contacting the Human Resources department of an office or place of employment. Human Resources will determine whether or not a state or government job requires security clearance, and will then give you the necessary materials to obtain that clearance. You will most likely be asked to fill out a questionnaire, and your questionnaire will be reviewed before you have a face-to-face interview.

Once you think you’ve found a state or government job that you think may interest you, be sure to ask for more details about security clearance during your interview. In most cases, normal, every day citizens are granted clearance, but you’ll want to know about any factors that could potentially complicate your being granted security clearance.

Procedure for state and local officials who require access to classified material

• apply for a security clearance through their local FBI Field Office. Fill out Standard Form 86 (SF 86), Questionnaire for National Security Positions; and two FD-258 (FBI applicant fingerprint cards).
• Secret and Top Secret security clearance are mandated by Presidential Executive Order (EO)
• clearance may be granted to those persons that have a "need-to-know" national security information

Top Security Clearances

• granted to those persons who have a "need-to-know" national security information, classified up to the Top Secret level
• a background investigation, covering a 10-year time period, is required.
• candidate will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement.
• It takes about 6 to 9 months for Top Secret security clearances

If you have any questions please contact the local FBI field office or go to the FBI web site.