Security Clearance Portability: Can You Take Your Clearance to a New Job?
If you’ve landed a new job offer that requires a security clearance, you may be asking: Can I transfer my current clearance to this new position? The answer is—maybe. While security clearance portability is possible, it’s not always guaranteed. The rules are complex, the timelines vary, and a lot depends on the agencies involved.
At the National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we help federal employees, contractors, and service members navigate this exact scenario every day. Below, we break down how clearance portability works, what to expect, and how to avoid costly delays.
What Is Security Clearance Portability?
Security clearance portability refers to the ability to transfer your existing clearance from one employer or agency to another without starting the entire background investigation process over. This is also known as reciprocity—when a new agency or employer accepts the clearance you already hold.
In theory, this process should be seamless. In practice, it often isn’t.
When Can You Transfer Your Clearance?
You may be able to transfer your clearance if:
- You have an active clearance at the same or higher level required by the new position (e.g., a current TS/SCI moving to another TS/SCI role).
- Your clearance was granted by a recognized agency that shares reciprocity with the hiring agency.
- You’ve had continuous employment in a clearance-holding role with no gaps longer than 24 months.
- There are no significant changes in your personal or professional circumstances (e.g., no new criminal issues, financial problems, or foreign contacts).
What Causes Delays or Denials in Portability?
Even if you meet all the criteria above, clearance portability is never a sure thing. Common pitfalls include:
- Agency-Specific Standards: Some agencies (especially in the intelligence community) may require their own adjudication process, even if another agency granted your clearance.
- Outdated Investigations: If your background check is more than 5–7 years old and hasn’t been updated, the new agency may require a reinvestigation.
- Breaks in Service: If you’ve been out of a cleared role for more than two years, you may need to start from scratch.
- System Incompatibility: Different agencies use different systems (e.g., DISS, Scattered Castles, JPAS), and sometimes they don’t communicate well. Missing or outdated records can slow everything down.
How to Make Your Clearance Transfer Smoother
Here’s how to avoid unnecessary delays when switching jobs:
- Get a copy of your clearance record (from DISS or Scattered Castles) before leaving your current job.
- Talk to your security officer to confirm your clearance status and eligibility for portability.
- Make sure your background investigation is current and hasn’t lapsed.
- Avoid gaps between jobs whenever possible.
- Be proactive—start the transfer process as early as possible.
What If Your Clearance Doesn’t Transfer?
If your clearance isn’t accepted by the new agency, don’t panic—but don’t wait around either. You may:
- Need to undergo a new investigation or adjudication, depending on the agency’s internal policies.
- Be eligible for interim access while the new process plays out.
- Have options to appeal or challenge a refusal to accept your current clearance.
In many cases, a knowledgeable security clearance attorney can step in and speed things up, especially when bureaucratic delays or miscommunications are involved.
We’ve Helped Hundreds Navigate Clearance Transfers—Let Us Help You Too
At NSLF, we understand the high stakes of a clearance delay or denial. You worked hard to earn that clearance. We’ll work even harder to make sure it goes with you.
Whether you’re transitioning to a contractor role, joining a new federal agency, or facing pushback on clearance reciprocity, our attorneys bring decades of federal and military insider experience to the table. We’ve represented clients in clearance matters across every major agency—including the DOD, DOJ, DHS, and members of the Intelligence Community.
🔍 Want the Full Playbook?
Don’t leave your clearance to chance. Click here to visit our Security Clearance Strategy Center — your go-to resource for:
- Proven strategies to win your case
- A complete cost breakdown
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- Secrets to maximizing your chances of approval
- Answers to “What if I already got denied?”
👉 You’ve got questions. We’ve got insider answers.
🛡️ Why Choose NSLF?
At National Security Law Firm, we’re not your average clearance attorneys—we’re the elite unit for national security representation:
- Every case is reviewed by our internal attorney board
- Staffed by former DOHA attorneys, Security Threat Assessment experts, and military lawyers
- Located in Washington, D.C. — where clearance decisions are made
- We’re insiders who’ve worked behind the curtain—now we fight for you
- Founded by and staffed with disabled veterans
- One of the fastest-growing national security law firms in the U.S.
💵 Transparent, Flat-Fee Pricing
No surprise bills. No hourly rates. Just mission-focused pricing.
- SF-86 Review: $950 flat fee
- Letter of Interrogatory (LOI) Response: $3,500 flat fee
This covers everything you need to respond and start defending your clearance. - Statement of Reasons (SOR): $5,000 flat fee
Already paid for your LOI response? You’ll get a $3,000 credit applied here. - Hearing Representation: $7,500 flat fee (includes all travel)
One fee covers it all—prep, travel, hearing. No hidden costs.
💳 Flexible Legal Financing Available
Worried about cost? Don’t be. We offer financing through Pay Later by Affirm — break payments into 3, 6, 12, or 24 months.
- No credit impact for checking eligibility
- We get paid up front. You pay over time.
- Keep your cash flow. Get the legal help now.
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Our success is measured in saved careers, restored clearances, and lives back on track.
⚠️ Don’t Wait. The Clock Is Ticking.
The sooner you call, the stronger your defense.
- Your defense starts with a free consultation
- We represent clients nationwide
- Legal help that’s quick, easy, and free to start
- You’ll speak with lawyers who understand the system inside and out
- Don’t risk your clearance—take control now
🪖 The National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.