Clearance is defined as what?

• A. Eligibility to access classified material based on the information classification level and valid need-to-know
• B. The permission to access only unclassified information
• C. The physical security measures for a facility
• D. A list of authorized personnel only for procurement

Answer: (A)

Clearance means your verified eligibility to access classified information at a given level, based on the classification level of the material and a valid need-to-know for your duties. It’s established through a background investigation and formal authorization, and you’re allowed to access information only if you have both the appropriate clearance and a demonstrated need to know for that specific material. This is separate from access to unclassified information, from the physical security measures used to protect facilities, or from lists of people for procurement.