Security Clearance Process

Security Clearance Process Information

You must be granted a security clearance before we can finalize the hiring process. We consider many factors when granting security clearances, including citizenship, drug use and personal integrity and conduct.

The clearance process begins when you accept a conditional offer of employment. It examines your life history to safeguard the nation's secrets. Think of this process as the first step in building a bridge of trust between you and the Intelligence Community. Candor is an essential ingredient in the establishment of that trust.

During the investigation, we examine your loyalty to the United States, strength of character, trustworthiness, honesty, reliability, discretion and soundness of judgment. In addition, we want to make sure you are:

• Free from conflicting allegiances to other countries.
• Not a potential risk for coercion.
• Willing and able to abide by regulations governing the use, handling and protection of sensitive information.

All potential ODNI employees must go through the following:

• Background investigation
• Clearance adjudication
• Drug test
• Other tests or paperwork