Originally published at: https://www.clearancejobsblog.com/how-to-overcome-a-lie-on-the-sf-86/
Imagine this scenario: you just graduated college and are offered a job that requires eligibility for a security clearance. You fill out the SF-86 and for fear of not getting the job offer, omit the fact that you used marijuana and misused prescription drugs a few times while in college. You then submit the application…
1 Like
Guys please do not lie.
Ive admitted to using marijuana and hard drugs in college. Its not uncommon. More so I had a DUI arrest from 2 years ago (literally couple months after college) and I recently received my clearance. Just be as transparent as possible. Lying will only sink your chances.
1 Like
The most often given advice on this site is, "Tell the truth . . . "
2 Likes
I’ve walked people off our client compound when telling lies on the Secret BI is revealed at an upgrade several years later. Believe it or don’t, the Poly process will reveal the majority pf people trying to hide information. It is almost always for falsifying government documents and not for the actual drug use.
1 Like
Hi! Sorry I know this is old. Is it an automatic clearance denial if you left off one instance of drug use on your security forms but disclose it in the poly (pre-test)? Or could it be a suitability denial? Thanks!
Most agencies treat this very seriously. Any time you admit to leaving something off the SF-86 only after you get to the poly, it will more than likely result in a disqualification or denial or whatever you call it.