How to Obtain a DOD Clearance as a Security Guard

security guard dod clearance
For security guards seeking positions that protect Department of Defense facilities, personnel, or classified information, obtaining a DOD security clearance is often a critical requirement. Here's what you need to know about the process.

Understanding DOD Clearances

The Department of Defense issues three levels of security clearances: Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. As a security guard, you'll most commonly need a Secret clearance, though some high-security facilities may require Top Secret. The level required depends on the sensitivity of the information and areas you'll be protecting.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a DOD clearance, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Demonstrate reliability, trustworthiness, and loyalty to the United States
  • Have a legitimate need for access to classified information (sponsored by an employer)

The Application Process

Secure a sponsoring employer. You cannot apply for a clearance on your own. You must first be hired or offered a position by a DOD contractor or government agency that requires clearance. Many security companies that contract with the DOD will sponsor qualified candidates.

Complete the SF-86 form. The Standard Form 86, Questionnaire for National Security Positions, is comprehensive and requires detailed information about your background, including employment history (typically 10 years), residences, foreign contacts, financial records, and personal references. Be thorough and honest—inconsistencies or omissions can derail your application.

Undergo the background investigation. Investigators will verify the information you provided, interview references, check financial records, and may conduct in-person interviews. For a Secret clearance, this process typically takes 3-6 months, while Top Secret clearances can take a year or more.

What Investigators Look For

The adjudication process evaluates you against 13 criteria, including:

  • Financial responsibility: Excessive debt or financial problems can be disqualifying
  • Criminal history: Serious offenses or patterns of misconduct raise red flags
  • Drug and alcohol use: Recent illegal drug use is typically disqualifying
  • Foreign contacts and travel: Extensive foreign ties may require additional scrutiny
  • Personal conduct: Honesty and integrity throughout the process

Tips for Success

Maintain a clean record. Address any financial issues, avoid illegal drug use, and stay out of legal trouble well before applying.

Be completely honest. The investigation is thorough. Attempting to hide information is more damaging than most issues themselves. Many concerns can be mitigated if disclosed upfront.

Gather documentation early. Having addresses, dates, contact information, and supporting documents organized will streamline the SF-86 completion process.

Be patient. Background investigations take time. Stay in contact with your security officer and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

Maintaining Your Clearance

Once granted, clearances require periodic reinvestigations—every 10 years for Secret and every 5 years for Top Secret. You must also report significant life changes, such as foreign travel, marriages to foreign nationals, or financial difficulties that could affect your clearance status.

With preparation, honesty, and patience, obtaining a DOD clearance as a security guard is an achievable goal that can open doors to rewarding career opportunities protecting our nation's most sensitive assets.