Suspension / Revocation
Suspension is the temporary removal of clearance access pending investigation or adjudication. Revocation is the permanent withdrawal of clearance eligibility. Both have serious career implications but differ in their finality and process.
Quick Facts
| Suspension | Temporary, pending review |
| Revocation | Final determination, access terminated |
| Appeal rights | Generally available for revocation |
| Career impact | Significant for both |
Suspension
Suspension removes your access temporarily while concerns are evaluated[1]:
Triggers for suspension:
- Allegation of policy violation
- Arrest or criminal charges
- Financial concerns discovered
- Foreign contact concerns
- Continuous evaluation alert
- Pending investigation of conduct
During suspension:
- Cannot access classified information
- Employment may be affected
- Investigation or review ongoing
- May be placed on administrative leave
- Not a final determination
Suspension Process
- Concern identified - Through CE, report, or other means
- Preliminary review - Security determines if suspension warranted
- Access suspended - Immediately in many cases
- Investigation - Full review of circumstances
- Resolution - Reinstatement or revocation
Revocation
Revocation is the final withdrawal of clearance eligibility[2]:
Common reasons for revocation:
- Adjudicative guideline violations
- Criminal conviction
- Unauthorized disclosure
- Drug use
- Financial irresponsibility
- Foreign influence concerns
- Failure to comply with security requirements
Revocation process:
- Statement of Reasons (SOR) - Written notice of concerns
- Response opportunity - You can submit rebuttal
- Final determination - Decision made
- Appeal rights - If denied, can appeal
Suspension vs. Revocation
| Aspect | Suspension | Revocation |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Temporary | Permanent (unless appealed) |
| Access | Removed pending review | Terminated |
| Process | May not require SOR | Requires due process |
| Appeal | May request review | Formal appeal rights |
| Record | May not affect future clearances | Affects future eligibility |
Your Rights
When facing revocation[3]:
Before final decision:
- Written notice of concerns (SOR)
- Opportunity to respond in writing
- May request personal appearance
- Can submit supporting documentation
- Can have representation
After final decision:
- Right to appeal
- Access to appeal boards (PSAB for DoD)
- Written decision explaining rationale
Impact on Employment
Immediate effects:
- Cannot perform cleared work
- May be reassigned to uncleared duties
- Possible administrative leave
- May result in termination
Long-term effects[4]:
- Revocation history follows you
- Affects future clearance applications
- May impact career in cleared work
- Must disclose on future SF-86
Reinstatement After Suspension
If suspension is lifted:
- Access restored
- May require briefing before resuming work
- Incident may be noted in file
- Continuous evaluation continues
Reapplying After Revocation
Revocation doesn't permanently bar you:
- Can reapply after time passes
- Must address original concerns
- Must show rehabilitation
- New investigation required
- Prior revocation will be considered
What to Do If Facing Action
- Understand the process - Know your rights
- Gather documentation - Evidence supporting your case
- Respond thoroughly - Address each concern
- Consider representation - Security clearance attorneys exist
- Be honest - Don't compound problems with dishonesty
Related
References
- ^ DoDI 5200.02: DoD Personnel Security Program. Department of Defense. Accessed 2026-01-08.
- ^ SEAD 4: National Security Adjudicative Guidelines. Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Accessed 2026-01-08.
- ^ Personnel Security Appeals Board. Department of Defense Office of General Counsel. Accessed 2026-01-08.
- ^ Security Clearance Process: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions. Congressional Research Service. Accessed 2026-01-10.