Hi all,
Can anybody provide a quick synopsis of the differences between the processes of getting a Top Secret and a Secret security clearance? I've been doing some on-line research and I've read that all that is required for a Secret is a check on public records and is far less burdensome than the top secret background check. Can anybody provide any details on this and the differences between the two? Many thanks!
micawber78
Dear micawber78,
In a nutshell,
Secret: normally five years of background on employers, addresses, three references, criminal background, credit check.
Top Secret: Ten years of the above with a more stringent standard on "mitigating circumstances."
Regards.
micawber78,
TS includes interviews with neighbors; the DoD has
suspended processing of TS clearances, due to
budget/manpower problems. I have current CIA
TS/SCI and active CIA Secret, but the CIA also has
stringent US citizenship requirements for immediate
family members and relatives, and probably other more
strict requirements, than the DoD.
Does a secret investigation include a national agency check? Would they see my FBI file with my two "inconclusive" polygraph results and "unsuitable" ruling?
We have quite a bit of DoD work out where I am. Basically I'm wondering if my FBI debacle forever ruined any chance of working for anyone else.
FBI-Reject,
Yes, an NAC is done for Secret clearances. If there is
anything in your background, or if the investigator asks
whether you have taken any polygraphs, be sure to be
totally honest. I am not sure, if your FBI issues would
show up, but that information may very well be shared
between agencies. Was there anything horrible that
you admitted to ? If not, then a failed/inconclusive
polygraph should not keep you from getting a DoD
clearance, but I am no expert. Maybe, you should ask
George...
Mic,
Try a search on wikipedia for "security clearance". There is a concise article there that helps to explain the differences you've asked about.
Thanks for the info. Nothing horrible that I admitted to. Just a horrible experience. I guess my biggest concern is they accused me of using countermeasures (I wasn't), so I don't know how that will go over.
I wouldn't worry, at all, about being accused of using counter-measures; the polygrapher clowns accuse almost everyone of doing that. Also, it has been my experience, that the DoD does not take the polygraph very seriously, and does not even consider the polygraph results, per se, but only what someone has admitted to (e.g., NSA sends any admitted derogatory information back to the DoD). Just be honest, as hell, with any investigators, and you should be fine !