Hush-Hush: Obtaining a Government Security Clearance

outside activities

potential for misuse of information technology systems

Based on the background investigation, adjudicators look for conditions that raise security concern and might be disqualifying -- as well as conditions that could mitigate the security concerns. When concerns are identified, adjudicators are asked to consider:

the nature, extent, and seriousness of the conduct

the circumstances surrounding the conduct, to include knowledgeable participation

the frequency and recent occurrence of the conduct

the individual's age and maturity at the time of the conduct

the voluntary nature of participation

the presence or absence of rehabilitation and behavioral changes

the motivation for the conduct, and

the potential for pressure, coercion, exploitation, or duress; and the likelihood of continuation or recurrence.

Based on their evaluation, a final determination is made. If an application is denied, notification is usually sent by letter, and failed applications can generally be appealed. Candidates can also reapply -- for the same position or a new one -- after a year, and are often subsequently cleared if they can demonstrate improvement in the area or areas that held them back. (Of course, depending on the reasons for denials this may not be possible.)

If an application passes, a temporary clearance is issued. This process usually takes no more than 45 days; the interim clearance, awarded if no major red flags, such as serious criminal or financial issues, are found, stands until full clearance is awarded. That process can take anywhere from three months to two years, depending on the clearance factor or such factors as whether you have lived abroad.

Once awarded, the clearance is yours for as long as you hold the position. If you leave, it moves to a semi-active status -- you can no longer view classified information, but if you are hired for a new position you don't have to go through another check -- for 24 months. Individuals with clearances, meanwhile, must submit to reinvestigations every five years.

Derrick Dortch is president of Redford, Mich.-based career development firm The Diversa Group, which has a regional office in Washington, D.C.