How to Check Security Clearance Status
Security clearances are essential for employees in certain job sectors, especially in government and military roles. Knowing how to check your security clearance status can be a crucial part of managing your career. This article covers the various methods and steps involved in checking the status of your security clearance.
Understanding Security Clearances
A security clearance is a status granted to individuals allowing them access to classified information. These clearances are necessary for specific jobs that involve access to sensitive or classified data. There are three levels of security clearances: Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. Each level offers access to different degrees of classified information.
Initiating the Security Clearance Process
The process to get a security clearance typically starts with your employer. For most government and military positions, the employer sponsors the clearance. You’ll need to fill out the Standard Form 86 (SF-86), which requires you to provide detailed personal information.
Essential Steps to Check Security Clearance Status
Contact Your Security Officer
Your company’s Facility Security Officer (FSO) or Human Resources representative is typically your primary contact. They can provide updates on your clearance status. They have direct access to the relevant databases and can offer the most accurate information.
Use the Defense Information System for Security (DISS)
The Department of Defense (DoD) uses the Defense Information System for Security (DISS) to manage and track security clearances. If you have access, you can log into DISS to check your status. However, this system is usually accessible only to FSOs and other authorized personnel.
Engage the National Background Investigations Bureau (NBIB)
The NBIB conducts background checks for security clearances. You can contact them directly for updates on your investigation status. Note that this method might not provide real-time updates, but it can offer a general sense of where you stand in the process.
Utilize the Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS)
JPAS is another system used to track security clearance statuses, primarily for DoD employees. Like DISS, access is restricted to certain personnel. Your security officer can log into JPAS to find the status of your clearance.
Check the e-QIP System
The Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (e-QIP) system is used to submit your SF-86 form. You can log in to e-QIP to see if your application has been accepted and is under review. However, this system won’t provide detailed status updates once the investigation begins.
Regular Follow-ups
If your security clearance process is taking longer than expected, periodic follow-ups with your security officer can be beneficial. They can request status updates from the relevant authorities and inform you of any potential issues or delays.
Important Considerations
Timelines
The time it takes to obtain a security clearance can vary. Confidential and Secret clearances typically take a few months, while Top Secret clearances can take six months or more. Periodic follow-ups are crucial due to these varying timelines.
Points of Contact
In addition to your FSO, other points of contact include your immediate supervisor and Human Resources. They can offer guidance and might have additional contacts within the organization who can provide status updates.
Security Clearance Portability
If you move to a new job or role, your security clearance can sometimes be transferred to your new employer. However, certain conditions apply. Your new employer’s security officer will need to verify your clearance status and possibly initiate additional checks.
Potential Issues and Troubleshooting
Incomplete Applications
An incomplete SF-86 form can delay the process. Make sure all information provided is accurate and complete before submission. Double-check your form before submitting it to avoid any potential delays.
Background Check Issues
If issues arise during your background check, you might need to provide additional information or clarification. Respond promptly to any inquiries from investigators to help speed up the process.
Adjudication Delays
After the investigation is completed, the adjudication process determines your clearance status. Delays can occur during this phase. Regular check-ins with your security officer can keep you informed about any hold-ups.
Reinvestigations and Renewals
Security clearances are not permanent and have specific durations. Confidential clearances are valid for 15 years, Secret clearances for 10 years, and Top Secret clearances for 5 years. Regularly monitor your clearance’s expiration date and start the renewal process in advance.
Final Tips
- Maintain accurate personal records to expedite the SF-86 form completion.
- Establish a good relationship with your company’s FSO.
- Stay proactive and informed throughout the clearance process.