Detailed Answer
Security clearance requirements:
**Contracts NOT Requiring Clearance:**
- Most civilian agency contracts
- Unclassified IT services
- Administrative services
- Construction (typically)
- Commercial item purchases
- Most GSA Schedule orders
**Contracts Often Requiring Clearance:**
- Defense classified programs
- Intelligence community work
- Law enforcement sensitive
- Critical infrastructure security
- Some IT systems work
**How to Know if Required:**
- Solicitation will state clearance requirements
- DD Form 254 attached for classified work
- "Facility Clearance" requirement mentioned
- Access to classified facilities needed
**Getting Cleared:**
- Requires contract need (no speculative clearances)
- Sponsor must be cleared contractor
- Takes 3-18 months depending on level