The time between submitting your application and receiving a decision on your security clearance can be notoriously long. The security clearance process is thorough, leaving no stone unturned to grant access to national security matters. But your job may need you to start performing some essential duties in the meantime: Enter the interim security clearance.
The interim security clearance allows you to perform your job functions before receiving a final decision on your security clearance. Essentially, the government decides whether they can risk an interim determination for you before going through the background investigation and adjudication process.
1. Use THE “ADDITIONAL COMMENTS” SECTION
When you apply for a security clearance, you will fill out the Standard Form 86 (SF-86). The document is lengthy, but the thoroughness of your responses will help speed up the timeline to your clearance approval – or denial. In the “additional comments” section, be sure to address any potential issues you’ve indicated on the form. For example, being detailed and transparent about past drug use or time spent abroad will make a difference in the decision for an interim security clearance.
2. THE PROCESS IS HIGHLY SUBJECTIVE
Although it might be frustrating to hear, an interim security clearance approval or denial often depends on the person reviewing the application. Misdemeanors, getting in trouble in college, or even having overdue library books can disqualify you from an interim clearance if it seems like it’s important to complete the background investigation first.
3. THE WAIT PERIOD VARIES PER CLEARANCE LEVEL
Because access to national security matters is based on the initial review of the SF-86, the waiting period to receive one is much shorter. For an interim Top Secret clearance, expect to receive a decision after several weeks. Interim Secret clearances, however, can be granted or denied within a few days.
4. THERE IS NO APPEAL PROCESS
Unlike a full security clearance, the decision on your interim clearance is final. If you’re denied, you won’t be permitted to appeal. You just have to wait for the full background investigation to run its course.
5. BUT A DENIAL ISN’T AN AUTOMATIC REJECTION
If your request for an interim security clearance is denied, your dreams of a security clearance aren’t lost! The denial rate for interim clearances is around 20 to 30% but is only 1% for full security clearances. So if you receive a denial, be patient; odds are you’ll be a security clearance holder working to protect our national security soon.
