Tag: Security Clearance
First signed into law in 2009, Executive Order 13526 joined other executive orders that changed how the U.S. government handles classified information. This order established a uniform classification system for sensitive information. It also provided a process for declassifying data.
The U.S. government recognizes three levels of security clearance: confidential, secret, and top secret. Using a federally mandated rubric, government officials classify documents in one of those levels. Candidates can receive clearance for information up to the level for which they qualify.
Confidential Clearance
Confidential clearance gives the holder access to information that could damage national security if leaked. A program manager or executive assistant might need confidential clearance. This clearance level requires renewal every 15 years.
Secret Clearance
Secret clearance provides access to data that, if released without authorization, could cause serious damage to national security. A counterintelligence analyst, cybersecurity analyst, or technical writer might need this clearance level. Holders must renew secret clearance every 10 years.
Top Secret Clearance / Sensitive Compartmented Information
Unauthorized release of some information could cause grave national security damage. Top secret clearance allows holders to access this information. A systems administrator or nuclear policy analyst might need top secret clearance. This clearance level requires reinvestigation every five years.
Department of Energy Authorizations
The DOE issues “L” and “Q” access authorizations. L authorization corresponds to confidential and secret clearance levels. Q authorization compares to top secret clearance.
