The time it takes to get a security clearance varies widely based on the level of clearance, the agency involved, and individual background complexity. Generally:
- For lower levels like "Baseline" or "Secret" clearance, it can take around 20 business days to 3 months.
- More intensive clearances like "Negative Vetting 1 or 2" or "Top Secret" can take several months up to 6-12 months or longer.
- The most sensitive clearances with polygraph tests may take 6-9 months to over a year.
Specifically, Australian Government clearances range from 20 business days for baseline to 180 business days for positive vetting. In the U.S., average times for Secret clearances are about 60 to 90 days, Top Secret around 90 to 180 days, and Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access can exceed 12 months. Factors delaying clearance include the complexity of personal history, eligibility, completeness of application, and the need for additional checks or interviews.
