Current vs. Expired Clearance
Understanding the difference between a current (valid but inactive) clearance and an expired clearance is important for career planning. A current clearance can be reactivated relatively easily, while an expired clearance typically requires a new investigation.
Quick Facts
| Current | Eligibility valid, not currently sponsored |
| Expired | Eligibility no longer valid |
| Grace period | Typically 2 years without sponsorship |
| Reactivation | Current clearances can be reactivated |
Clearance Status Categories
| Status | Meaning | Access Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Active | Sponsored and valid | Yes |
| Current | Valid but not sponsored | No (until reactivated) |
| Expired | No longer valid | No |
How Clearances Become Current (Not Active)
A clearance moves from active to current when[1]:
- You leave a cleared position
- Your position no longer requires clearance
- You're between contracts
- Employer no longer sponsors you
During this period, your eligibility remains valid but you cannot access classified information.
The 2-Year Rule
Generally, clearance eligibility remains current for approximately 2 years after your last period of access[2]:
Within 2 years:
- New employer can reactivate your clearance
- No new investigation required (usually)
- Verification of current eligibility
- May need updated SF-86 information
After 2 years:
- Clearance is considered expired or lapsed
- New investigation typically required
- Process similar to initial clearance
- Some credit may be given for prior investigation
The exact timeframe can vary by agency and circumstances.
Factors Affecting Expiration
Several factors influence whether your clearance expires[3]:
Accelerating expiration:
- No access to classified information during gap
- No employer sponsorship
- Failure to complete reinvestigation when due
- Conduct issues discovered during gap
Extending validity:
- Brief gaps between cleared positions
- Continuous evaluation enrollment
- Active reinvestigation at time of separation
Reinvestigation Timelines
Even if continuously employed, reinvestigation is required[1]:
| Clearance Level | Reinvestigation Period |
|---|---|
| Top Secret | Every 5 years |
| Secret | Every 10 years |
| Confidential | Every 15 years |
Missing a reinvestigation deadline can affect your clearance status.
Reactivating a Current Clearance
If your clearance is current (not expired)[2]:
- New employer initiates sponsorship request
- Security office verifies current eligibility
- Access is granted (often quickly)
- No new investigation if within timeframe
This is significantly faster than a new investigation.
When Reinvestigation Is Required
A new or updated investigation is typically needed when:
- More than 2 years since last access
- Clearance has officially expired
- Significant life changes occurred
- Upgrading to higher clearance level
- Agency requires fresh investigation
Related
References
- ^ DoDI 5200.02: DoD Personnel Security Program. Department of Defense. Accessed 2026-01-08.
- ^ Security Clearance Process: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions. Congressional Research Service. Accessed 2026-01-10.
- ^ Security Clearance FAQs. U.S. Department of State. Accessed 2026-01-10.