What must occur before individuals can hand-carry classified information?

Before individuals can hand-carry classified information, it is imperative that they acknowledge their security responsibilities. This acknowledgment serves as a crucial step in ensuring that individuals understand the importance of safeguarding classified materials and the legal implications involved in handling such information. By formally recognizing their responsibilities, individuals commit to adhering to the regulations and protocols designed to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

While completing a security clearance exam, reading classified material, and attending a training session are all important components of handling classified information, they are not prerequisites specifically for the act of hand-carrying such materials. Acknowledgment of security responsibilities directly ties into the overarching goal of fostering a culture of security and vigilance among personnel who may be privy to sensitive information, ensuring that they are fully aware of and accountable for their actions when managing classified materials.