Can you talk about your security clearance?

The fact that you have a security clearance is not classified, so there’s no reason you can’t tell someone you have a security clearance. In fact, the State Department and other government agencies advise applicants who have a clearance to include this information on their resumes.

How do I know if I have a security clearance?

For DoD clearances only your security officer may inquire about the status of your security clearance application. This can be done by checking the Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS) and/or the Security and Investigations Index (SII) or by telephoning the DoD Security Service Center at

How much is my top secret clearance worth?

A Secret clearance investigation in 2018 runs a whopping $433 dollars. A Top Secrets runs $5,596. And in any case, the government foots the bill on said clearance costs; contractors or individual employees are not paying for them.

How long does a Top Secret clearance last?

five years

Does a security clearance increase your salary?

The highest levels of clearance can lead to even higher salaries. The Human Resource Association of the National Capital Area also reported that employees with top secret security clearance could earn up to 60% more than those without top secret clearance in certain jobs.

How much does security clearance cost?

The average cost to process a SECRET clearance can run from several hundred dollars to $3,000, depending upon individual factors. The average cost to process a TOP SECRET clearance is between $3,000 and about $15,000, depending upon individual factors.

Does a security clearance help you get a job?

Both government agencies and private companies with government contracts hire for cleared jobs, roles that require an active security clearance. In many cases, you’re a more attractive job candidate if you have an active or current security clearance as part of your résumé.

How long secret clearance takes?

In general, expect a CONFIDENTIAL or SECRET clearance to take between 1 and 3 months. A TOP SECRET will probably take between 4 and 8 months. However, some individuals have been waiting for the results of their TOP SECRET investigation for more than one year.

Is it hard to get secret clearance?

Obtaining a security clearance is no easy task, and not everyone who applies will be granted access. If this is the case, an applicant hasn’t been denied a clearance, but rather denied employment after already submitting a security clearance application.