Getting a security clearance might sound daunting, but it’s basically a structured journey toward earning trust—and access to classified information. Here’s how to breeze through it in seven steps (after you get the job that requires a security clearance).
How to Obtain a Security Clearance
Regardless of the clearance level, here’s what you can expect in the process.
1. Understand the Clearance Basics
A personnel security clearance is an official decision deeming you eligible to access classified info. Whether you need an initial clearance (never held one, or it lapsed over 24 months ago) or an upgrade, the process for obtaining a Department of Defense security clearance starts when your employer (or Facility Security Officer, FSO) submits your application via the Defense Information System for Security (DISS) or the National Background Investigation Services (NBIS) to the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA).
2. Complete the Application — Say Hello to NBIS/eApp
Gone are the days of pen‑and‑paper. DCSA now uses NBIS (National Background Investigation Services) and the applicant-friendly eApp interface instead of the old e‑QIP system. Export your background—addresses, jobs, foreign contacts, legal history—then electronically sign and submit.
3. FSO Review & Fingerprints
Once you hit “submit,” your FSO plays gatekeeper: they’ll review your SF‑86 (or equivalent eApp output) for completeness, then release it to the Personnel Security Directorate. Alongside this, you’ll submit fingerprints electronically. In many cases, you’ll also receive an interim clearance based on preliminary checks—ideal for starting work ASAP.
4. Background Investigation
DCSA—or authorized investigation services—will dig deep: criminal records, credit history, reference interviews, local law enforcement, and more . You might even do an in-person interview as part of Tier 3 or Tier 5 investigations.
5. Adjudication
Once the investigation wraps, DCSA’s adjudicators review everything against national security standards (like Executive Order 12968). A determination is made: grant, deny, or suspend. If you’ve already got interim eligibility, that stays in place while the final decision is being made.
6. Kick‑off & Continuous Vetting
Congrats—you’ve got a clearance! But your journey doesn’t end there. Continuous Vetting (CV) keeps your eligibility on track even after you’ve obtained eligibility. That means real‑time monitoring of credit, criminal changes, foreign travel, etc.
7. Maintain & Update
Hit updates immediately. Moved? New bank account? Foreign travel? Report it. Self-reporting is key to mitigating any issues discovered by the government through CV. Ignoring issues could derail your clearance.
Tips to Smooth Your Ride
- Be totally honest. Gaps in info raise red flags.
- Start early. The process can take weeks—or months for Top Secret/Tier 5.
- Communicate. Your FSO is your ambassador; stay in touch.
- Use Two‑Factor Authentication. DCSA added robust MFA to NBIS/eApp in May 2025—so set that up early.
Why All This Matters
DCSA’s new vetting strategies and NBIS improvements aim to speed up investigations, reduce backlog, and make continuous monitoring the new norm . You’re not just getting clearance—you’re joining a system built for agility, trust, and security in today’s complex era.
You’re stepping into a trusted circle—and that’s something to celebrate. Do your homework, lean on resources like your FSO, and embrace the process. With honesty and diligence, you’ll earn your clearance and contribute to national security with confidence.
