Because many government and contractor jobs require a security clearance, how can I apply for a clearance?
Individuals cannot obtain a security clearance on their own. First you need to be selected or hired for a position that requires a clearance, and only then can an employer or sponsor submit your application for a clearance for the appropriate level (Confidential, Secret, or Top Secret) depending on the requirements of the job. At that time you must fill out a personnel security questionnaire to start the investigation.