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Frequently Asked Questions

The FAQs on this page are related to the information in the About USAccess section of this Website including specific information about the USAccess Service, PKI, and how to participate in the USAccess Program. FAQs relating to USAccess Implementation or the PIV Credential reside in those sections.

About USAccess

Q: What is Homeland Security Presidential Directive – 12 (HSPD-12)? A: Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) is the directive that was issued for “Policy for a Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors." HSPD-12 calls for all federal employees and contractors to use a standard smart credential to verify their identity for secure access to federal buildings and information systems.

HSPD-12 called upon the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop the actual technical standard, and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to manage implementation of the credentials. The uses of the credentials are left to the agencies themselves to decide. Last Updated: 9/25/2009 8:22:42 PM

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