Clearances are passed in three ways:

  1. Visit Authorization Letters (VALs) are used to pass Secret and Top Secret clearances. 10 days advance notice is required to ensure proper processing of the request.
  2. To pass requests for SCI access, 3-4 weeks advance notice is required to allow sufficient time for the government to respond.
  3. International Visit Requests pass Secret and Top Secret clearances to locations other than a US Government location; 30 days’ notice is required.

None of the above can be hand carried; they must be transmitted from security office to security office. This provides the receiving facility the opportunity to approve or disapprove the visit.

The required information on a VAL includes:

  • Name of place being visited
  • Name of security officer
  • Security phone and fax number
  • Purpose of visit
  • Contract number or contract name
  • Technical point of contact
  • Dates of visit
  • Your full name and SSN