Security Clearances

Programs that authorize access to classified information or restricted areas following successful completion of a background investigation by a trusted authority which is, in certain situations, a requirement for employment. Security clearances are only available to individuals, generally government employees and certain employees in the private sector, e.g., authorized federal contractors, whose job requires them to have access to classified documents or restricted facilities. The term "security clearance" is also used in private organizations that have a formal process to vet employees for access to sensitive information.