A security clearance is like a background check. It is required for individuals who are hired for US government jobs or any organization that handles information pertaining to national security. The security clearance process ensures your ability to securely access, manage, and protect classified information.

A security clearance is a status granted to individuals allowing them access to classified information (state or organizational secrets) or to restricted areas, after completion of a thorough background check.

A security clearance allows an individual filling a specific position to have access to classified national security information up to and including the level of clearance they hold, as long as the individual has a “need to know” the information and signed a non-disclosure agreement.

A security clearance is an authorization given to an individual which grants them eligibility for access to specific levels of classified information necessary to perform the duties and responsibilities required of their job

A United States security clearance is an official determination that an individual may access information classified by the United States Government. Security clearances are hierarchical; each level grants the holder access to information in that level and the levels below it.