What is required to obtain a security clearance?

Question

Just curious as to what they want to know?

Answer 1

I had a top secret clearance in the Army. The requirements were:
- no criminal background
- no drug use
- a good credit history
- close associations with ppl from foreign countries are investigated
- your background is researched. They talk to family, teachers, friends, neighbors, etc.... You must be of good moral character.
- no close ties to criminals or even ex-criminals
- a decent driving record

Answer 2

Years ago when I was issued a clearance, they required 20 years of resident verification, employment verification, parents names and birth dates, siblings, if you were ever convicted of a crime, then the reason for clearance (employment), personal references by people who have known you for a length of time. Then you are fingerprinted, and investigated to verify if all answers were truthful. Investigators do contact and verify. I would imagine the procedure is the same today. If you were to need a higher security clearance, i.e., Top Secret or Eyes Only, the procedure is more intensive.

Answer 3

Good moral character without any criminal record means that a person is entitled to a security clearance.

Answer 4

Either have a super clean record from birth to present. Or serve on Clinton's staff.