I’m looking for some honest opinions on my chances of getting an interim Secret clearance for a DoD role.
I’m currently in the process for a position that requires an interim Secret to start, so it’s basically interim or no job.
Here’s my situation:
- I’ve used marijuana a total of 4 times in my life, all experimental.
- My last use was January 2024. I have been clean since and have no intention of using again.
*Had some job dates i got incorrect with as well.
The concern I have is about a discrepancy from a previous investigation:
- On an earlier SF-86 (for a contractor role tied to an intel program), I originally listed my last use as around September 2022 because I was unsure and estimated.
- During the investigation, I later corrected that date to the accurate one (02/18/2024) with the investigator and FSO proactively.
- That process ended with me being dropped after unsuccessful polygraph attempts, but I was told it was NOT a clearance denial and I could reapply in the future.
Now for this new DoD position:
- I listed the correct date (02/18/2024) on my current SF-86.
*I corrected the job dates as well - Everything else is consistent and truthful.
No criminal history, no financial issues, no foreign contacts or anything like that.
My concern is whether:
- The date discrepancy from the previous investigation could hurt my chances at an interim
- The prior polygraph/program issue could cause hesitation
I understand interims aren’t guaranteed, but I’m trying to get a realistic idea of whether I’m still a viable candidate for an interim or if I should expect it to be denied/delayed.
Any insight from people familiar with the process would be appreciated.