A security clearance is generally considered current for up to two years after leaving a position that requires access to classified information; if you don’t start a new cleared position within that timeframe, you will likely need to undergo a new background investigation to reactivate your clearance.
One ClearanceJobsBlog subscriber asks:
Does going on personal leave count towards the two years for a SECRET clearance going inactive?
-
Active vs. Inactive:
A clearance is only “active” when you are employed in a position requiring access to classified information; once you leave that position, your clearance becomes inactive (or current) but may still be valid for a period.
-
2-year window:
Most government agencies consider a 24-month break in federal service as the threshold for needing a new background investigation to reactivate a clearance. The government has announced policies to change that timeframe to three years, but hasn’t implemented it yet.
-
No expiration date, but needs renewal:While clearance eligibility technically doesn’t expire, it needs to be periodically reviewed and renewed if you want to maintain access to classified information.
Bill Henderson, ClearanceJobs news contributor says:
The rule was (and probably still is) that you have 2 years from the day you sign your debriefing certificate. “Inactive” is an HR term. Your clearance (access eligibility) is either active or terminated. It is possible to have a terminated clearance reinstated (recertified) if there hasn’t been a break in access eligibility of more than 24 months.
For national security professionals who want to continue working in cleared positions for the long haul, you should consider obtaining a position that requires that security clearance within 24 months or two years of your clearance or access being administratively withdrawn. If everything is done correctly, this should mean that would not have to undergo a new background investigation. Having previously been cleared can certainly expedite the process and make it possible obtain an interim clearance in a matter of weeks, but it will require an individual to reapply and undergo a new investigation, including reference verifications and personal subject interviews.
Much about the clearance process resembles the Pirate’s Code: “more what you’d call guidelines than actual rules.” This case-by-case system is meant to consider the whole person, increase process security, and allow the lowest-risk/highest-need candidates to complete the process. This article is intended as general information only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult an attorney regarding your specific situation.
