Which form is required for all national security positions?

• A. SF 86
• B. SF 85
• C. SF 52
• D. SF 50

Answer: (A)

For national security positions, the vetting starts with the Questionnaire for National Security Positions. This form collects detailed personal, employment, education, financial, foreign contacts, travel, and other information needed to assess trustworthiness and suitability for access to classified information. It triggers the background investigation process and guides the depth of review to determine eligibility for a security clearance.

The other forms serve different HR purposes and are not used to initiate security investigations. The form for low-risk, non-sensitive public trust roles collects similar information but at a much less intensive level. The personnel action forms are used to document employment actions and do not solicit the background data required for security determinations.