If you’ve ever explored careers with the federal government, intelligence community, or defense contractors, you’ve likely come across a requirement for a security clearance. But what exactly are the different clearance levels? How do they work, and which one do you need?

At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), our attorneys are former federal employees, military officers, and clearance adjudicators. We’ve been on the inside of the clearance process and know exactly how it works. This guide is designed to give you the most complete, easy-to-understand breakdown of clearance levels anywhere online.

⚔️ National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.

What Is a Security Clearance?

A security clearance is an official determination by the U.S. government that you can be trusted with access to classified information. It’s not a credential you can get on your own—it must be sponsored by a government agency or a contractor with a government contract.

Clearances are granted on a “need-to-know” basis: you only get the level of access required for your job.

The Three Primary Levels of Security Clearance

There are three main tiers of security clearance, plus additional special categories for particularly sensitive work.

1. Confidential Clearance

  • Definition: The lowest level of clearance. Grants access to information that, if disclosed, could cause “damage” to national security.

  • Examples of Use: Administrative, clerical, or entry-level roles supporting federal agencies or the military.

  • Renewal: Every 15 years (subject to continuous vetting under newer programs).

2. Secret Clearance

  • Definition: Mid-level clearance. Grants access to information that, if disclosed, could cause “serious damage” to national security.

  • Examples of Use: IT specialists, intelligence support, logistics, and defense contractor roles.

  • Renewal: Every 10 years (with continuous vetting).

3. Top Secret (TS) Clearance

  • Definition: The highest standard clearance. Grants access to information that, if disclosed, could cause “exceptionally grave damage” to national security.

  • Examples of Use: Intelligence officers, analysts, senior defense contractors, high-level military and government staff.

  • Renewal: Every 5 years (continuous vetting applies).

Special Access Programs (SAP) & Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI)

Beyond Top Secret, there are restricted categories of access:

  • SCI (Sensitive Compartmented Information): Information related to sensitive intelligence sources, methods, or processes. Usually paired with Top Secret → called TS/SCI.

  • SAP (Special Access Programs): Programs that require enhanced protections due to their sensitivity. Access is tightly controlled and limited even among cleared personnel.

Key Point: There is no “higher than Top Secret” clearance. TS is the highest level—but SCI and SAP are additional compartments layered on top.

How Clearance Levels Are Determined

Your clearance level depends on:

  1. Job Requirements – You only get the clearance necessary for your position.

  2. Sponsoring Agency – Each agency may use clearances differently. For example, a Secret at DoD may involve different duties than Secret at State.

  3. Background Investigation – The scope of the investigation scales with clearance level.

The Background Investigation Process

Confidential / Secret

  • Investigation Type: Tier 3 background investigation.

  • Scope: National agency check, local law enforcement, credit check, references.

Top Secret

  • Investigation Type: Tier 5 background investigation.

  • Scope: Everything in Tier 3, plus in-depth interviews, field checks, employment and residence history, and sometimes polygraphs depending on the role.

SCI / SAP

  • Investigation Type: Usually requires TS eligibility first.

  • Scope: May include polygraph testing and continuous re-screening.

FAQs About Security Clearance Levels

Q: Can I apply for a security clearance on my own?
❌ No. You must be sponsored by a government agency or contractor for a specific job. You can read more about how NSLF can help you obtain one here: How To Obtain a Security Clearance Without Joining the Military.

Q: What’s the fastest clearance to get?
✔️ Secret clearances are generally faster than Top Secret. Interim Secret clearances may be granted in a matter of weeks.

Q: What’s the difference between Top Secret and TS/SCI?
✔️ Top Secret is the clearance level. SCI is an additional compartment that controls access to sensitive intelligence information. Most intelligence community roles require TS/SCI.

Q: How long does it take to get a clearance?

  • Confidential / Secret: 1–6 months (sometimes faster for interim).

  • Top Secret: 6–18 months, depending on backlog.

Q: Does having one clearance level automatically give me the others?
❌ No. Clearances are not “stacked.” If you’re approved for Secret, you don’t automatically qualify for Top Secret—you need a new investigation.

Q: Do clearances expire?
✔️ They must be renewed, but with continuous vetting, you may be flagged sooner if an issue arises.

Why a Clearance Is Worth It

  • Higher Salaries – Clearance jobs often pay 10–30% more than equivalent civilian roles.

  • Overseas Opportunities – Many clearance-required jobs are based abroad with additional benefits.

  • Career Stability – A clearance is a credential that travels with you. Once you have it, future jobs become easier to land.

How National Security Law Firm Can Help

At NSLF, we help at every stage of the clearance process:

  • Pre-Employment Security Clearance Screening – For job seekers who don’t yet have a clearance but want to prove they’re clearable. ($950 flat fee)

  • SF-86 Review – Expert review before you submit your application. ($950 flat fee)

  • Statement of Reasons (SOR) Response – Full legal representation to fight clearance denials. ($5,000, with credits if you’ve already hired us for LOI stage)

  • Hearing Representation – National representation before DOHA and agency panels. ($7,500, includes travel)

🔹 See our full pricing and services

Why Choose National Security Law Firm

When your career is on the line, you need the best. Here’s why professionals across the nation trust us:

  • ⭐ 4.9-Star Google Reviews – Read them here

  • ⚖️ Former federal employees, military officers, and adjudicators on staff.

  • 🛡️ Insider knowledge from attorneys who have worked at DOHA, DOE, Army JAG, and intelligence agencies.

  • 📍 Based in Washington, D.C. – the hub of clearance law and hearings.

  • 🌎 Nationwide representation – We fight for clients everywhere.

  • 💳 Legal financing available – Pay Later with Affirm

  • ⚔️ Elite team approach – Every complex case is reviewed by our Attorney Review Board.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.

Additional Resources

If you want to dive deeper into the clearance process, visit our main practice area page here:
👉 https://www.nationalsecuritylawfirm.com/security-clearance/

There, you’ll find helpful content on:

  • Top mistakes to avoid
  • How to win a clearance appeal
  • Defensive strategies for each guideline
  • Timeline and expectations for your case
  • Frequently asked questions and myth-busting tips

Ready to Take the Next Step? Let’s Talk.

The best defense starts early. Whether you’re applying, facing an SOR, or planning to reapply after a denial, the sooner you act, the better your chances of success. Every day you wait could put your clearance—and your job—at greater risk.

We’ll tell you exactly what to do next to get the best possible outcome. Our process is quick, easy, and free to start. We can help you:

  • Respond to concerns the right way
  • Avoid unnecessary delays or denials
  • Protect your job, pay, and peace of mind

Book your free consultation now and go to sleep tonight knowing your case is in the hands of professionals. 👉 https://www.nationalsecuritylawfirm.com/contact-us/