How To Obtain Secret Clearance: A Comprehensive Guide
Obtaining a security clearance, especially a Secret clearance, is a significant undertaking. It requires meticulous attention to detail, patience, and a commitment to transparency. This guide outlines the process, highlighting key steps and offering advice to increase your chances of success.
Understanding Security Clearances
Before diving into the process, let's clarify what a Secret clearance entails. A Secret clearance allows access to classified information that could cause serious damage to national security if disclosed without authorization. It's a higher level of clearance than Confidential, requiring a more thorough background investigation.
The Secret Clearance Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process begins with a job application requiring a security clearance. Your employer will initiate the investigation. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:
1. The Security Clearance Application (SF86):
This is the cornerstone of the process. The Standard Form 86 (SF86) is a lengthy and detailed questionnaire covering various aspects of your life, including:
- Personal Information: Basic details, contact information, and family history.
- Employment History: A comprehensive account of your employment history, including reasons for leaving each position. Be thorough and accurate; omissions can be detrimental.
- Financial History: Information about your finances, including debts, bankruptcies, and any financial difficulties. Transparency is key here.
- Foreign Travel: Details of any international travel, including the purpose and duration of each trip.
- Criminal History: Disclosure of any arrests, convictions, or involvement with law enforcement. Even minor infractions must be reported.
- Substance Abuse: Information about any past or present substance abuse, including alcohol and drug use. Honest and complete disclosure is crucial.
- Social Media: While not explicitly stated, investigators may review your online presence. Maintain a professional online profile.
Pro Tip: Accuracy is paramount. Any inconsistencies or omissions can significantly delay or derail your application.
2. Background Investigation:
Once the SF86 is submitted, a thorough background investigation commences. This involves:
- Interviews: Interviews with you, your references, and former employers. Prepare for these interviews; anticipate questions related to your application.
- Record Checks: Checks of your criminal history, credit reports, and employment records.
- Foreign Contact Investigation: Scrutiny of your relationships with foreign nationals.
3. Adjudication:
This is the final stage where your eligibility for a Secret clearance is determined. The investigator's report is reviewed by a security clearance adjudicator who makes a decision based on established guidelines.
Factors Affecting Your Eligibility
Several factors influence the outcome of your security clearance application. These include:
- Foreign Connections: Close ties to foreign nationals can be a significant concern.
- Financial Irresponsibility: Outstanding debts and financial instability can raise red flags.
- Criminal History: A history of criminal activity, even minor offenses, can be a major obstacle.
- Drug Use: Past drug use can significantly impact your chances.
- Mental Health: Disclosure of mental health issues requires honest and open communication with the investigator.
Pro Tip: Address any potential concerns proactively. If you have any issues in your background, consult with a security clearance attorney.
Improving Your Chances of Success
- Be Thorough and Honest: Complete the SF86 meticulously and accurately.
- Maintain a Professional Online Presence: Review and adjust your social media profiles accordingly.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice answering potential questions about your background and history.
- Seek Professional Help: If you have concerns about your eligibility, consult with a security clearance attorney.
Obtaining a Secret clearance is a demanding but achievable goal. By understanding the process, being prepared, and remaining transparent, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember, this information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a professional for personalized advice.
