Who authenticates an EAL?

• A. Security Officer
• B. Human Resources
• C. SF supervisor (E-5/GS-7 or above)
• D. EAL holder

Answer: (C)

The person who authenticates an EAL is the supervisor with appropriate authority in the chain of command. This mid-level supervisor—typically at the rank of E-5/GS-7 or higher—has the responsibility and visibility to verify the individual’s identity, current assignment, and need-to-know before approving the EAL. This creates accountable ownership of access decisions and ensures that only eligible personnel receive the credential.

Security Officers manage and oversee the overall program, but day-to-day authentication of individuals is delegated to someone in the supervisory line who can attest to the person’s status. HR handles personnel actions and records, not the actual authorization of access. The EAL holder cannot authenticate themselves, since this would bypass accountability and separation of duties.