Reciprocity

Reciprocity is the principle that federal agencies should accept security clearances granted by other agencies without requiring a new investigation. This prevents duplication of effort and allows cleared personnel to move between organizations more easily.

Quick Facts

How Reciprocity Works

Under reciprocity requirements^[2]:

1. Agency A grants you a clearance after investigation
2. Agency B should accept that clearance
3. No new investigation required at the same level
4. Additional access (SCI, SAP) may require extra steps

The receiving agency verifies your clearance through security databases rather than conducting a new investigation.

Legal Basis

Executive Order 12968 established reciprocity requirements^[2]:

"To the extent possible, background investigations and eligibility determinations should be accepted by all agencies."

This was reinforced by subsequent policies to reduce clearance backlogs and improve workforce mobility^[4].

Where Reciprocity Works Well

DoD to DoD:

• Between military branches
• Between defense contractors
• DoD civilian agencies

Within Intelligence Community:

• Between IC agencies (with some exceptions)
• IC contractor positions

Federal civilian agencies:

• Many accept DoD clearances
• Suitability determinations may still be required

Reciprocity Limitations

Despite the requirement, agencies sometimes need additional verification^[3]:

Polygraph differences:

• Agency may require different polygraph type
• CI poly holder may need full-scope for new position

SCI and SAP access:

• Clearance may transfer, access may not
• Program-specific requirements vary
• Must be read into new programs

Agency-specific requirements:

• Some agencies have unique standards
• Additional checks may be required
• Can cause delays even with reciprocity

DoD and IC Reciprocity

DOE Clearances

DOE Q and L clearances have reciprocity with DoD^[4]:

However, access to Restricted Data (nuclear information) requires DOE-specific authorization.

When Reciprocity Fails

Common situations where reciprocity doesn't apply smoothly:

• Clearance has lapsed or expired
• Significant time since investigation
• Adverse information discovered
• Position requires higher level
• Agency disputes investigation scope
• Polygraph type mismatch

Your Role

When relying on reciprocity:

• Know your clearance level and date
• Know when your investigation was completed
• Have your FSO ready to verify status
• Be prepared for possible delays
• Understand that additional access requires additional steps

Related

• Transfer Clearance
• Active Clearance
• Current vs. Expired Clearance
• Q Clearance

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