Which directive authorizes agencies to approve interim eligibility?

The choice related to the authorization of agencies to approve interim eligibility is SEAD 8. This directive is part of the Security Executive Agent Directives (SEADs) established to streamline personnel security processes across government agencies. Specifically, SEAD 8 sets forth the policies for determining eligibility for access to classified information and enables agencies to grant interim clearances. This is crucial in maintaining operational continuity while background investigations are still in progress.

In this context, other directives such as the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act), Executive Order 13467, and Executive Order 12968 focus on broader frameworks for personnel security, including guidelines for eligibility determination and security clearance processes but do not specifically authorize interim eligibility approvals. Thus, SEAD 8 is the correct reference for interim eligibility.