What do the terms “active,” “current” and “expired” security clearance mean?
An “active” security clearance is one in which the candidate is presently eligible for access to classified information. A “current” security clearance is one in which a candidate has been determined eligible for access to classified information but is not currently eligible without a reinstatement. A candidate has two years to remain on a “current” status before moving to an “expired” status. Both “active” and “current” security clearances are easily transferred between employers. An “expired” clearance is one that has not been used in more than two years and cannot be reinstated. Once sponsored, the candidate must resubmit a security clearance application and go through a new Personnel Security Investigation (PSI) to have access. Individuals with expired security clearances cannot be considered for jobs that require active or current security clearances. The Facility Security Officer (FSO) is the person who can best answer questions about security clearance status.
An “active” security clearance is one in which the candidate is presently eligible for access to classified information. A “current” security clearance is one in which a candidate has been determined eligible for access to classified information but is not currently eligible without a reinstatement. A candidate has two years to remain on a “current” status before moving to an “expired” status. Both “active” and “current” security clearances are easily transferred between employers. An “expired” clearance is one that has not been used in more than two years and cannot be reinstated. Once sponsored, the candidate must resubmit a security clearance application and go through a new Personnel Security Investigation (PSI) to have access. Individuals with expired security clearances cannot be considered for jobs that require active or current security clearances. The Facility Security Officer (FSO) is the person who can best answer questions about security clearance status.
