Adjudicators evaluate pertinent data in a background investigation, as well as any other available information that is relevant and reliable, to determine:
- Eligibility for logical and physical access to government facilities/IT systems (HSPD-12 credentialing guidelines)
- Suitability for Federal Government employment or fitness to perform work for or on behalf of the Government as a contractor (OPM Suitability/Fitness guidelines).
- Eligibility for access to classified information or to hold a sensitive position (National Security guidelines).
Here is how it works: when a background investigation for a national security position is completed and a favorable decision is made it covers suitability/fitness and HSPD-12 determinations as well. However, if the decision is unfavorable, the employing agency responsible for the individual must now determine whether to employ that person in a public trust or non-sensitive low risk position, or terminate employment. That is where the other two guidelines come into play. One can be eligible for HSPD-12 access or suitable for federal employment and not be eligible for a clearance. However, that being said, if you are not eligible for HSPD-12 access or suitable/fit for government employment then you are not eligible for a clearance.