Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 5/20/2009

Question
I am currently 24 years old. When I was 18 years old I joined the Navy and Failed the drug test at bootcamp for Cocaine.I didn't do it very many times, but I was drunk with some friends and they got me to do it about a week before I went to basic. I know it is the dumbest thing I ever have or will do. Other than that drug test I have never been in any trouble with the law or anything.
I have been working for a defense contractor for about 3 years now with an excellent work record. I have received numerous awards for my work. I now have to apply for a security clearance to keep my job. Do you think I will be able to get a clearance?
Thanks
Josh


Answer
You may be able to, especially if that was the only thing you ever did wrong and you have had consistent, clean, drug tests at your current job. One never knows how the investigators think of things like that, but ensure you're honest and that you dont lie on the forms or your chances will go from having one to zero.