How Long Does a Security Clearance Last?

EXECUTIVE BRIEF

This article outlines the ins and outs of security clearances, including:

• Defining and explaining how a security clearance is crucial for national security and requires regular reevaluation as it authorizes access to classified information.
• Tips on maintaining an active clearance, such as: timely updates, open communication with the FSO, and proactive steps like finding part-time cleared roles to avoid lapses.

Dig deeper and continue learning below. 

A security clearance is a government-granted authorization that allows individuals to access certain classified information. Security clearances are critical to the DoD and other agencies, as individuals are accessing information that, if released into the wrong hands, could put our national security at risk. It is important to note that just because someone has a security clearance, does not give them the right to access all classified information. They must also have a need-to-know. People who work for the U.S. government must be reliable, trustworthy, of good conduct and character, and of complete loyalty to the United States. 

This article will outline the ins and outs of security clearances that your Facility Security Officer needs to know. 

Learn how ISI supports hundreds of defense contractors with our FSO & Clearance services here.

Who can apply for a Security Clearance?

Individuals cannot submit applications for security clearances on their own behalf. Other cleared people cannot nominate them for a clearance. Only the employing organization can determine whether an individual’s position will require access to classified information and, if necessary, will initiate the processing of a security clearance for the person occupying that job.

The Lifespan of a Security Clearance: Initials, Renewals and Continuous Vetting

There are 3 clearance eligibility levels: Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. Being granted a security clearance is just the start of your journey but your security clearance does not last forever. Your clearance is temporary and time-bound to ensure your organization, and the government, can periodically re-evaluate the individuals they’re giving access to. 

See below for an overview of renewing and keeping your security clearance active/current.

Reinvestigations

All clearances, regardless of the level, must be reinvestigated every 5 years. The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) has implemented continuous vetting for all DoD personnel with security clearances. Continuous Vetting (CV) is a process that involves regularly reviewing a cleared individual’s background to ensure they continue to meet security clearance requirements and should continue to hold positions of trust.

How does the Continuous Vetting (CV) Process Work?

Automated record checks pull data from various (criminal, financial, etc.) databases, as well as public records, at any time during an individual’s period of eligibility. When DCSA receives an alert, it assesses whether the alert is valid and worthy of further investigation. DCSA investigators and adjudicators then gather facts and make clearance determinations. CV helps DCSA mitigate personnel security situations before they become larger problems, either by working with the cleared individual to mitigate potential issues, or in some cases suspending or revoking clearances.

Factors Affecting Clearance Duration

While the DCSA provides some guidance on how long security clearances are good for, several factors can impact the length of your security clearance duration. These factors include job role, level of access needed, and personal behavior.

A security clearance is active when an employee has a job that requires access to classified information. If an employee leaves a cleared position, their clearance must be picked up by another organization within a two-year period in order for it to remain active. If an individual goes more than 2 years without being in access, they will need to be processed for a new clearance.

Job Role

Depending on your job role and the contract you are supporting, you may require a security clearance. The clearance level required will depend on the contract requirements. A security clearance is necessary for positions where employees need access to classified national security information such as military plans, intelligence reports, or sensitive government projects.

Level of Access

The higher the level of security clearance, the more invasive/in-depth the investigations are. Higher-level clearances, such as Top Secret, may have more stringent requirements. All clearances, regardless of level, must be reinvestigated every 5 years.

Personal Behavior

Personal behavior significantly impacts security clearance as it determines an individual’s trustworthiness and ability to safeguard classified information. Any inconsistent, dishonest, or questionable conduct can negatively affect someone’s clearance eligibility. This includes issues such as criminal history, financial problems, drug use, foreign connections, and even poor judgment in personal life. These can lead to potential denial or revocation of a clearance.

Securing and Maintaining Your Clearance: Best Practices for Subcontractors

The day-to-day of a contractor is already hectic. However, maintaining your security clearance requires some upkeep and organization. Follow these four tips to help ensure your security clearance remains in good standing.

Tips for Keeping Security Clearance in Good Standing Active

Tip #1: Consistently update personal information

Ensure your facility security officer has the most current information about your address, phone number, and email address. Any changes, such as a new job, change in address or marital status change should be reported promptly.

Tip #2: Stay informed about reinvestigation deadlines

Security clearances require periodic reinvestigations. Be aware of these deadlines and proactively provide any necessary documentation. Be sure to complete your SF-86 every 5 years, as required, in a timely manner.

Tip #3: Communicate openly with your FSO

Maintain open and honest communication with your FSO. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out. It is always better to over report than under report. Be aware of your reporting requirements and make sure reports are submitted in a timely fashion. Check out this SEAD 3 reporting job aid that DCSA has created!

Tip #4: Find a part-time cleared position if you leave a full-time cleared role

As mentioned above, you don’t want to go more than 2 years without having your clearance owned by a company, otherwise, you will need to start the clearance process all over again. Finding a part-time job that requires a clearance will help maintain your clearance and keep it active.

Common Causes of Delay in the Security Clearance Process

Several factors can contribute to delays in the security clearance process:

• Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork: Ensure all required forms are filled out correctly and submitted on time. Fingerprints must also be completed at the same time as your submission of the SF-86.
• Foreign contact issues: Any foreign contacts, including travel or business dealings, must be disclosed and explained.
• Financial problems: Financial issues, such as bankruptcy or late payments, can raise red flags.
• Criminal history: Any criminal history, even minor offenses, may require additional scrutiny.
• Backlog with NBIB: This is out of your control, but sometimes the delay is within DCSA. If they are processing a large amount of investigations, you can expect to see delays in the investigation timeline.
  

How to Ease the Background Investigation Process

To expedite the background investigation process:

• Be prepared: Gather all necessary documentation, such as tax returns, employment records, and military service records.
• Be honest: Provide truthful and complete information to the investigator.
• Be responsive: Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documentation.

Be patient: The investigation process can take time, so be patient and avoid rushing the process.

Consequences of Inactive Clearances: Impact on Employment and Future Opportunities

An inactive security clearance can have significant implications for an individual's career, particularly in government contracting and defense industries. A security clearance is active as long as an individual is employed in a position that requires access to classified information and their background investigation is current. A security clearance becomes inactive if there is a break in sponsorship for 2 years or more or if their background investigation is greater than 5 years old. To regain clearance eligibility, the individual must undergo a new background investigation. Key risks associated with an inactive clearance include:

• Limited Employment Opportunities: Many government contracting positions and sensitive roles require an active security clearance. An inactive clearance will prohibit access to these positions, limiting career advancement and job opportunities.
• Reduced Contract Eligibility: Companies often rely on cleared personnel to fulfill certain roles and often need a quick turnaround. An inactive clearance can hinder a company's ability to bid on and win contracts, potentially impacting revenue and job security. Often times, due to the immediate need to fill positions on a contract, a company must hire an individual who already has an active clearance. They won’t have time to wait for a new clearance to be granted.
• Loss of Competitive Edge: In a competitive job market, having an active security clearance can provide a significant advantage. An inactive clearance can diminish an individual's competitiveness and make it harder to secure new positions.

Importance of Staying Informed and Prepared for Clearance Renewal

Securing and maintaining security clearances can be a cumbersome process. ISI can help your company maintain all aspects of your security and compliance initiatives. 

Contact ISI for Expert Guidance and Support for Compliance Strategies