Who has the authority to grant security clearances?

The authority to grant security clearances rests with the government and its authorized agencies. This process is governed by specific laws and regulations that dictate who is eligible for access to classified information. Various government agencies, such as the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and the Office of Personnel Management, have the established protocols for conducting background investigations and determining whether an individual meets the necessary requirements for a clearance.

Security clearances involve a thorough review of a person's background, including criminal history, financial responsibility, and personal conduct, which only government agencies are equipped to carry out effectively. Furthermore, these agencies implement rigorous standards aligned with national security interests, ensuring that the integrity of sensitive information is preserved.

Private companies and international organizations may require individuals to have clearances, but they do not have the authority to issue them. Security officers, while responsible for protecting facilities and managing security operations, also do not have this authority. Their role is more focused on the implementation of security measures and procedures rather than granting clearances.