Polygraph or background check?

[faffle]

At any point during the security clearance process, do they do a polygraph test or a background test concerning drug use? I have experimented very little but do not want this to keep me from acceptance into this program.

[administrator]

Did you just say that you would not have put down any drug activity on your sf86 if you were not polygraphed?

[Guest]

First it's a background investigation not a polygraph, secondly the past "experimental" use of drugs isn't an issue unless you had a security clearance at the time. Most importantly though is that if you end up needing a TS or higher they get very into your background. Including face to face interviews with people who knew you anytime in the previous 10 years. If something is found that you did and lied about that is almost guaranteed to lose you your clearance. Just be honest.

[Guest]

You won't need to do a polygraph to be eligible for the scholarship or get the required Secret clearance, but your sponsoring facility may require it, though it'll probably just be a counterintelligence one. The rule is, be honest. If it's all in the past and you're honest about it you shouldn't have any trouble with being cleared.