How long does an interim secret clearance take?

5-10 days
Essentially, the government can grant an interim clearance – or a temporary eligibility – based on the information in your SF-86. From the time your information hits the system, your interim Secret or Top Secret clearance could be granted in as little as 5-10 days.

What is the difference between an interim Secret and a secret clearance?

An interim clearance will remain in effect until the final clearance is determined, or adverse information is discovered. For example, if an applicant has an interim clearance granted at the Secret level, their status will continue to be interim until granted the final clearance.

Does interim clearance guarantee final clearance?

Interim clearance eligibility is done in conjunction with the start of the background investigation process. This clearance, when awarded, is typically in effect until an investigation is completed. At the end of the investigation a final security clearance determination is made to approve or deny.

Why would you be denied an interim security clearance?

Your interim Top Secret security clearance may be denied for a number of reasons. It’s all about risk mitigation for the government. Common issues that could result in a denied interim security clearance are prior criminal conduct, debt, foreign contacts, or even inconsistencies in the security clearance application.

Is an interim clearance considered active?

The moment you leave that position or contract, your clearance is no longer active, it’s considered current – assuming your investigation hasn’t expired. Obtain another cleared position within two years, and your clearance can be reactivated without a new investigation.

How is an interim clearance granted?

An Interim Security clearance (also known as “Interim Security eligibility”) is based on the completion of minimum investigative requirements and granted on a temporary basis, pending the completion of the full investigative requirements for the final secret clearance.

Who gets an interim security clearance?

All applicants for a personnel security clearance submitted by a cleared contractor will be routinely considered for an interim eligibility. The Vetting Risk Operations (VRO) reviews the Questionnaire for National Security Position (SF 86) and other files and systems.

Can you get a CAC card with an interim clearance?

A CAC is the Department of Defense Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card required under Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD) 12. Conversely, if you have a security clearance, you can almost guarantee the need for a CAC (or your agency’s equivalent).

Can interim clearance be transferred?

If you’re moving to a new position that’s at the same clearance level and supporting the same federal agency, you’re in luck! Your clearance information will still be in the same database as your last job—which should make for an easy switch.