MEPS Security and Background Screening 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the difference between a security clearance and a security access authorization (SAA)?
- They are identical terms used interchangeably in military regulations
- A clearance certifies eligibility; an SAA grants access to specific classified information based on need-to-know (Correct answer)
- A clearance is permanent while an SAA expires annually
- SAAs are only used by civilian DoD employees, not military personnel
Correct answer: A clearance certifies eligibility; an SAA grants access to specific classified information based on need-to-know
Having a clearance establishes eligibility, but access to specific classified material also requires a demonstrated need-to-know, formalized as an access authorization.
Question 2: Which MEPS applicant action during the background screening process constitutes a federal offense?
- Forgetting to list a minor traffic ticket
- Knowingly and willfully falsifying information on the SF-86 (Correct answer)
- Declining to answer certain questions
- Asking for clarification about a question on the form
Correct answer: Knowingly and willfully falsifying information on the SF-86
Knowingly falsifying information on federal security forms is a felony under 18 U.S.C. § 1001, punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
Question 3: How long must an applicant typically wait before reapplying after a security clearance denial?
- 30 days
- 6 months
- 1 year (Correct answer)
- There is no mandatory waiting period; they may appeal immediately
Correct answer: 1 year
Applicants whose clearance is denied or revoked must generally wait 1 year before reapplying, though they have appeal rights through the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA).
Question 4: What is the significance of 'reportable information' for military personnel who already hold a security clearance?
- Cleared personnel must proactively self-report certain life events such as foreign travel, arrests, or financial changes (Correct answer)
- Reportable information only applies during the initial clearance application
- Only supervisors are required to report concerning behavior about cleared personnel
- Reportable information requirements do not apply below Top Secret clearance level
Correct answer: Cleared personnel must proactively self-report certain life events such as foreign travel, arrests, or financial changes
Cleared military personnel have an ongoing obligation to self-report specific life events to their security officer, including foreign travel, arrests, financial problems, and foreign contacts.
Question 5: Which of the following best describes the 'need-to-know' principle in the military security framework?
- The requirement that all personnel explain why they need any classified briefing
- Access to classified information is granted only when required to perform official duties (Correct answer)
- Senior officers have automatic access to all information at their clearance level
- Cleared personnel may share information freely with others at the same clearance level
Correct answer: Access to classified information is granted only when required to perform official duties
Need-to-know means that even personnel with the appropriate clearance level may only access specific classified information when it is necessary for their assigned duties.
Question 6: During the MEPS background check process, what is the purpose of contacting listed references?
- To verify the applicant's physical fitness and athletic history
- To corroborate information provided and identify any undisclosed issues or character concerns (Correct answer)
- References are contacted only if the applicant fails the polygraph
- To obtain employment verification letters for the applicant's service record
Correct answer: To corroborate information provided and identify any undisclosed issues or character concerns
Investigators contact references to verify the applicant's background information and to identify any character concerns, undisclosed associations, or behavior patterns.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of the 'Allegiance to the United States' adjudicative guideline?
- To ensure applicants can pass a civics test about American history
- To identify individuals who may advocate for or support the overthrow of the U.S. government (Correct answer)
- To verify that applicants have voted in at least one U.S. federal election
- To confirm military applicants have never lived outside of the United States
Correct answer: To identify individuals who may advocate for or support the overthrow of the U.S. government
The Allegiance guideline screens for membership in or support of groups that advocate violence or the overthrow of the U.S. government, as this represents a fundamental loyalty risk.
MEPS Security and Background Screening 5
What is the difference between a security clearance and a security access authorization (SAA)?