Requirements and tiers
Confirm the real classified-access need; select the personnel-vetting path and investigation tier.
Open map →Personnel vetting · Access control · Lifecycle
Security clearance, from requirement to debrief.
Start with the actual job or contract requirement. Then follow the focused process maps for selecting the route, opening and completing vetting, reaching a decision, authorizing access, and maintaining or ending it. Each map identifies the responsible roles, handoffs, decision gates, and primary references.
First decision: Does the position or contract require classified access? If no, stop the clearance path. Suitability, fitness, sensitive-position decisions, and PIV credentials are separate processes and may still apply.
Keep the decisions separatePosition requirement, investigation, eligibility, facility eligibility, safeguarding authority, need-to-know, and specific access each have distinct owners and gates. A favorable eligibility decision alone does not open access.
Choose a process map
The maps follow one sequence. Continue to the next map when its exit condition is met.
Request and submission
Choose initial, transfer, upgrade or re-establishment; sponsor the case and submit a complete package.
Open map →Investigation and decision
Resolve coverage gaps, complete authorized investigation and receive the Government determination.
Open map →Decision owners
See which office owns each decision and review key outcome gates.
Open map →Government and industry roles
Compare each role’s action and handoff at every stage.
Open map →Access and lifecycle
Authorize specific access, apply SCI/SAP branches and maintain or close access.
Open map →Related process
Personnel reporting requirements
After access is authorized, individuals and organizations have continuing reporting duties under different frameworks.