u/Fancy-Company-6050

I recently received a contingent offer for a part-time IT sector internship with a DoD contractor. The role requires eligibility for an interim Secret clearance to begin work.

I completed the company’s security prescreen honestly and disclosed prior marijuana use. My last use was May 1, 2026, and I have stopped completely since then.

I know recent use can negatively impact interim clearances, and I’m trying to realistically understand my chances. I’m not asking how to cheat a drug test or hide anything, I already disclosed it.

For people familiar with the clearance process, especially contractor/DoD internship roles:
- how heavily does very recent marijuana use affect interim Secret eligibility?
- is interim denial common in situations like this even if the full clearance may eventually be possible?
- does being an intern/entry-level role make any practical difference?

Just looking for realistic input from people who’ve seen the process firsthand.

I have an interview coming up very soon for an IT type internship with a defense contractor, and the role would require eligibility for a Secret clearance.

I’m curious what the drug testing process is typically like for positions like this. Assuming I were hired, should I expect a pre-employment drug test only, or are random/ongoing tests common as well?

I’ve stopped using marijuana, but my prior use was recent enough that I’m unsure how concerned I should be about timelines and testing.