What to Know About Inactive/Lapsed Security Clearance

FacebookXPinterestEmailEmailEmailShare
Airman First Class Sabrina Zarate, 88th Communication Squadron server operations system administrator, conducts a real-time test on a computer server on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.
Airman First Class Sabrina Zarate, 88th Communication Squadron server operations system administrator, conducts a real-time test on a computer server on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, May 11, 2017. (Al Bright/U.S. Air Force photo)

How long does my security clearance last when I leave the military?

  • A clearance becomes inactive once your service ends.
  • A clearance can be reactivated for up to 24 months as long as your reevaluation period hasn't passed.

Related: Search for security clearance jobs.

What can I do if my clearance has lapsed?

  • Make sure to put on your resume that you are "clearable." This lets employers know that you have had previous clearance.
  • Once you are sponsored by a company, you will have to go through the clearance process again.
  • The clearance process should not take as long as your initial clearance check, depending on how long it has been since you last held clearance.

Related: Does your resume pass the 6-second test? Get a FREE assessment.

The Next Step: Find the Right Veteran Job

Whether you want to polish up your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area, or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Sign up for a free Military.com membership to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.

Story Continues

Most Recent Security Clearance Job Posts