Reference · Secure facilities & shielding
DD Form 254
Contract Security Classification Specification
DD Form 254 (Contract Security Classification Specification) is the document that conveys security requirements and classification guidance from the government to a cleared contractor on a classified contract. It tells the contractor what is classified, at what level, and how to protect it.
What it is
A form issued with a classified contract that specifies the required clearance levels, what information or work is classified, safeguarding and marking requirements, and whether the contractor may generate classified material or needs a SCIF.
Why it exists
It translates a contract's classified requirements into concrete security direction the contractor and DCSA can act on and audit.
Who it applies to
Cleared contractors and their cleared subcontractors on classified contracts; the prime issues a DD Form 254 to each cleared sub.
Frequently asked
What is a DD Form 254 used for?
A DD Form 254 conveys the security requirements of a classified contract to the contractor — the clearance levels needed, what is classified, how to safeguard and mark it, and whether classified generation or a SCIF is required. It is issued with the contract and to each cleared subcontractor.
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