Active Clearance
An active clearance means you currently hold a valid security clearance that is tied to a position requiring access to classified information. Your eligibility has been determined, and you have a current need for access through your employer or government agency.
Quick Facts
| Status | Currently sponsored and valid |
| Access | Can access classified information at cleared level |
| Requirement | Must be tied to position needing access |
| Maintenance | Subject to continuous evaluation |
Active vs. Current
These terms are often confused[1]:
| Active | Current |
|---|---|
| Sponsored by employer | Eligibility still valid |
| Tied to specific position | May or may not have sponsor |
| Can access classified info | Cannot access without reactivation |
| Appears in security databases as active | Appears as current/eligible |
You can have a current clearance eligibility without an active clearance if you're between jobs or your position no longer requires access.
How Clearances Become Active
A clearance becomes active when[3]:
- Investigation completed - Background check finished
- Favorable adjudication - Eligibility determined
- Sponsorship - Employer or agency sponsors your access
- Position requirement - Your job requires classified access
All four elements must be present for truly active status.
Maintaining Active Status
To keep your clearance active[2]:
- Remain employed in a position requiring access
- Meet reporting requirements
- Pass continuous evaluation checks
- Complete periodic reinvestigations when due
- Avoid conduct that would trigger review
What Happens When Employment Ends
When you leave a cleared position[1]:
- Clearance status typically changes from "active" to "current"
- You can no longer access classified information
- Your eligibility remains valid for a period (usually 2 years)
- A new employer can "reactivate" without new investigation (if within timeframe)
Verification
Your clearance status can be verified through:
- DISS (Defense Information System for Security) - Official DoD system
- CVS (Clearance Verification System) - For verifying contractor clearances
- Your FSO - Facility Security Officer at your company
You cannot verify your own clearance status directly - it must be done by authorized personnel.
Active Clearance Requirements for Jobs
Job postings may specify:
- "Active clearance required" - Must currently hold active clearance
- "Current clearance required" - Eligibility must be valid, can be reactivated
- "Must be clearable" - No current clearance, will sponsor investigation
Understanding these distinctions helps in job searches.
Related
References
- ^ DoDI 5200.02: DoD Personnel Security Program. Department of Defense. Accessed 2026-01-08.
- ^ Security Clearance FAQs. U.S. Department of State. Accessed 2026-01-10.
- ^ Security Clearance Process: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions. Congressional Research Service. Accessed 2026-01-10.