What is required for DoD contractors to handle SAP classified information?

For Department of Defense (DoD) contractors to handle Special Access Program (SAP) classified information, one essential requirement is having a facility security clearance that is validated by the Program Security Officer (PSO). The PSO is responsible for ensuring that the facilities involved in handling classified information meet the necessary security protocols and that the clearance is adequate for the specific level of access required for SAP projects.

Facility security clearances are crucial as they provide a formal acknowledgement that a contractor's location has been vetted and can adequately protect classified information in compliance with government regulations. This validation process includes reviewing security measures, personnel security practices, and overall facility operations to ensure they align with the sensitive nature of SAP information.

The other options, while relating to security in different contexts, do not specifically address the mandatory requirement for a facility security clearance validated by the PSO. Operational approval from the CIA, training certifications for personnel, and membership in the National Security program do not directly fulfill the requirement for handling SAP classified information as stipulated by DoD guidelines.