Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) reports that over 13,000 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2024. Guideline G of the Security Clearance Adjudicative Guidelines addresses alcohol consumption and its potential impact on an individual’s eligibility for a security clearance or position of public trust. It outlines how excessive, or problematic alcohol use can raise concerns about an individual’s reliability, judgment, and trustworthiness, potentially jeopardizing their access to classified information.
One ClearanceJobsBlog subscriber writes:
Hello. Almost 6 months ago I was arrested for a DUI and charged with child endangerment given a minor was in the vehicle. I won’t make excuses. Worst thing I’ve ever done in my life. I’ve been doing A LOT of work on myself, and my lawyer and I are hoping to plead much of it down, but I won’t have my first opportunity to do so until the end of next month. I am a government contractor and due to start a project at a new agency. I have to fill out a… form for a public trust. I understand I have to provide all the details of the arrest, even though there has been no conviction yet and I’m hoping for a good outcome, and I am happy to do so. I have a couple of questions. 1) will I be able to get the clearance or will I be denied? 2) will the contracting officer know what I report in the forms to the security office of the agency (I don’t want to tarnish my company’s name in any way coming into this and would rather withdraw my role), 3) how much detail do I give (was thinking charges information and offer for any treatment documentation)
Many cleared professionals face unexpected life events and wonder how it will affect their career, clearance, or position of public trust. You’re doing the right thing by asking questions and taking responsibility. Unfortunately, the recency of this specific event won’t allow time to be a mitigating factor.
Will I Be Denied Public Trust Because of This Arrest?
Not automatically. While a public trust position is not the same as a security clearance, it still requires a background investigation—and yes, your recent arrest and charges must be reported.
That said, decisions are based on the “whole person” concept. Adjudicators consider:
- The nature and seriousness of the offense
- Whether it involved violence, recklessness, or vulnerable individuals (child endangerment will be noted)
- Your conduct since the incident (rehab, treatment, honesty, remorse)
- Whether it appears part of a pattern or a one-time lapse in judgment
- The current legal status of the case
Because your charges are pending and involve both DUI and a minor, it will raise concerns. They may or may not be disqualifying, but it’s important to make sure:
- You’re fully transparent
- You demonstrate rehabilitation and responsibility
- The charges are ultimately reduced or dismissed
Even if your position is public trust, your agency or employer may have its own suitability criteria. Be proactive but patient—adjudication isn’t instantaneous.
Will My Employer or Contracting Officer See What I Report?
Not directly.
The OF-306 (Declaration for Federal Employment) and any related background forms go to the agency’s security or HR office, not to your company project manager or contracting officer. That said, if you’re denied suitability, your company may be informed that you’re ineligible for the role.
If you’re truly concerned about damaging your company’s standing or reputation, you could discuss voluntarily withdrawing from the role, but remember, agencies are often more understanding than we expect, especially when we’re forthright.
How Much Detail Should I Provide?
You must be accurate, complete, and truthful. For the SF-85, disclose the arrest, even if not convicted yet and provide supporting documentation through the course of the investigation.
This shows that you are not hiding the incident, are proactively seeking change, and understand the seriousness of the matter.
This is a serious situation, but not necessarily the end of your cleared career. Many individuals have recovered from major setbacks and retained or regained eligibility through transparency, accountability, and change.
Take it one step at a time. Tell the truth. Document your progress. And remember: you are more than your worst moment.
If you feel uncertain, you may also want to consult a security clearance attorney for personalized advice before submitting forms.
This question was posed from a subscriber at ClearanceJobsBlog.com, where you can read and discuss government security clearance process, how to get a security clearance job, and background investigations issues.
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.
