Who is responsible for determining your security clearance level?

The government agency sponsoring the individual is responsible for determining your security clearance level. This agency conducts background investigations and assessments based on established criteria relevant to the specific position and the sensitivity of the information the individual will access. The responsibility lies with the agency because they have the authority and resources to evaluate the individual's trustworthiness, reliability, and ability to protect classified information.

Options such as a direct supervisor or the chief security officer of the organization may play a supportive role or provide input during the process, but they do not have the final authority to establish the clearance level. Local police departments do not have any jurisdiction or authority in determining security clearance levels as this is strictly a function of governmental agencies that operate within national security frameworks.