How to Get a Security Clearance for a Federal Job

Many federal jobs require a security clearance. Here's how the clearance process works, how long it takes, and what can disqualify you in 2026.

Security clearances are required for a large portion of federal jobs — particularly in defense, intelligence, and law enforcement. If you've never held a clearance, the process can seem mysterious. Here's how it actually works.

Types of Security Clearances

Confidential: The lowest level. Required for positions involving information that could damage national security if disclosed. Takes weeks to months to obtain.

Secret: The most common clearance level. Required for the majority of DoD and defense contractor positions. Takes 1 to 6 months typically.

Top Secret: Required for positions involving information that could cause serious damage to national security. Takes 6 to 18 months. Requires a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI).

TS/SCI: Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information access. Required for intelligence community positions. The most extensive investigation process, often taking a year or more.

How the Clearance Process Works

You cannot apply for a security clearance on your own — you must be sponsored by a federal agency or cleared contractor. The process begins when you accept a conditional job offer for a position requiring clearance.

You then complete the SF-86 (Standard Form 86), a detailed questionnaire covering your personal history, finances, foreign contacts, and more. An investigator conducts interviews with you and your references. The investigation results are reviewed, and a determination is made.

What Can Disqualify You

Common disqualifying factors include:

• Foreign citizenship or significant foreign contacts
• Financial problems (unpaid debts, bankruptcy)
• Drug use within recent years
• Criminal history
• Dishonesty during the investigation process

None of these are automatic disqualifiers — adjudicators look at the whole person, including mitigating factors and how long ago issues occurred.

Having a Clearance Is a Competitive Advantage

If you already hold an active clearance, many federal jobs list it as a preference or requirement. Active clearances significantly speed up the hiring process and make you competitive for positions most applicants can't access.

Finding Clearance-Required Federal Jobs

FedJobs filters by clearance requirement so you can find positions that match your current clearance level or identify roles where a clearance will be granted upon hire.

Search clearance federal jobs at FedJobs.co.