For better or worse (I vote better), working in the national security career field is actually nothing like the movies. Despite their popularity, and even their capacity to help attract the next generation to an intelligence career, those who work in national security have frequently cited how popular shows like the Americans, Homeland, or NCIS present a picture that is a far cry from reality. Those who work in national security know the shocking truth – the average cleared worker can look a little more like Jim Halpert than Jason Bourne.
One common misconception – and (somewhat) frequently asked question is if you have to be able to obtain a firearm in order to obtain a security clearance. The question may come up because firearms are a niche topic in the security clearance application (specifically any crimes or citations involving firearms). But the government asks these questions more because of the issues around trustworthiness and rules-following – not because they’re expecting you to pack heat.
These is a proportionally very small segment of cleared work that requires physical fitness requirements and firearms handling – these positions are probably less likely to be the spies you envision on TV and more likely to serve in federal law enforcement positions like FBI agent, Customs and Border Patrol Agent, or Secret Service Agent. For all of these positions, the firearm requirement will be explicit in the job description and career requirements. It’s worth noting that even within these agencies (FBI, CBP and Secret Service), there are still positions (like finance and public affairs), where firearms aren’t required. If you don’t want to carry a firearm, don’t think certain agencies are off limits. But consider support functions in in-demand fields like cybersecurity or finance where your skills are required – and not your side arm.
Can I Get a Security Clearance if I Have a Firearm Restriction?
One question that also comes up is if a previous mental hospital stay and any subsequent restrictions around firearm possession would preclude an individual from obtaining a security clearance. Like all matters national security, the answer falls strongly into the ‘it depends’ camp. There is nothing to say that having a restriction on purchasing a firearm would prevent you from obtaining a security clearance – the issue would be why the restriction was put in place, what your current mental health state is, and how closely you’re following all government or legal requirements – around firearms or anything else. The ‘whole person’ is there to help establish reliability and trustworthiness across the totality of an individual’s character. Definitely don’t let previous mental health issues preclude you from considering a cleared career, but do consider carefully which career your pursue and how you will need to answer the questions on the SF-86.
