When an individual is eligible to have access to classified information, this is called:

The term that refers to an individual being eligible to access classified information is known as a security clearance. This designation indicates that a comprehensive background check has been performed and the individual has been deemed trustworthy to handle sensitive government information. Security clearances are essential in safeguarding national security and ensuring that only those who have been vetted can access classified materials.

A security clearance can vary in level, such as confidential, secret, or top secret, depending on the sensitivity of the information one is authorized to access. Individuals in various sectors, particularly those working for government agencies or certain contractors, must obtain a security clearance to perform their duties effectively and responsibly.

The other terms mentioned, such as Q clearance and FBI clearance, refer to specific types of clearances but do not encompass the general term used for the eligibility to access classified information across various contexts. A Q clearance specifically pertains to Department of Energy access, while an FBI clearance is not a standardized term used in the same way as security clearance. Field operative clearance may imply an operational designation but lacks the broader recognition associated with security clearances. Hence, the most comprehensive and widely understood answer is security clearance.