This page left blank.
Introduction 2 

Reminders 2 

SECTION 1 – Originally Classified Documents 3 

Portion Marking 5 

Overall Classification Marking 6 

Classification Authority Block

“Classified By” line 7 

“Reason” for classification line 8 

“Declassify On” line 9 

SECTION 2 – Derivatively Classified Documents 11

Portion Marking 12 

Overall Classification Marking 13 

Classification Authority Block

“Classified By” line 14 

“Derived From” line 15 

“Declassify On” line 17 

Declassification Instructions

Missing Declassification Instruction 18 

Multiple Sources 19 

OADR 21 

X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and X8 22 

MR 23 

DNI Only/DCI Only 24 

Subject to Treaty or International Agreement 25 

25X1-human Exemption 26 

Use of 25X1 through 25X9 Exemptions 27 

Derivatively Classifying from a Classification Guide 28 

SECTION 3 – Additional or Special Markings 31 

Classification Extensions 31 

Classification by Compilation 32 

Foreign Government Information 34 

Commingling RD and FRD with Information Classified under the Order 35 

Transmittal Document 36 

SECTION 4 – Examples 39 

SECTION 5 – Quick Reference 47 

Summary of Changes 51
Executive Order (E.O.) 13526 and its implementing directive, 32 CFR Part 2001, prescribe a uniform security 

classification system. This system requires that standard markings be applied to classified information. 

Except in extraordinary circumstances, or as approved by the Director of the Information Security Oversight 

Office (ISOO), the marking of classified information shall not deviate from the prescribed formats. Markings 

shall be uniformly and conspicuously applied to leave no doubt about the classified status of the information, 

the level of protection required, and the duration of classification. Since a booklet of this size cannot illustrate 

every conceivable situation, please refer to the implementing directive, other ISOO issuances, and any 

instructions issued by your organization for further clarification. Consult your security manager if you have 

any questions.

This booklet is unclassified, and as it is in the public domain, it may be reproduced without permission. All 

classification markings used are for illustration purposes only. All previous booklets and the guidance 

contained in them are rescinded. 

Reminders 

 Only individuals specifically authorized in writing may classify documents originally.

 Only individuals with the appropriate security clearance, who are required by their work to restate 

 classified source information, may derivatively classify information.

 Markings other than “Top Secret,” “Secret,” and “Confidential” shall not be used to identify 

classified national security information. 

 Information shall not be classified for any reason unrelated to the protection of the national security.

 Classifiers and authorized holders are responsible for ensuring that information is appropriately classified 

 and properly marked.

 Individuals who believe that information in their possession is inappropriately classified, or inappropriately 

 unclassified, are expected to bring their concerns to the attention of responsible officials.

 The following markings are not authorized in the “Declassify On” line: 

• “Originating Agency’s Determination Required” or “OADR” for documents created after 

 October 14, 1995;

• “X1,” “X2,” “X3,” “X4,” “X5,” “X6,” “X7,” or “X8” for documents created after 

 September 22, 2003; 

• “Manual Review” or “MR;”

• “DNI Only” or “DCI Only;” 

• “Subject to treaty or international agreement;” and

• “25X1-human.” 
The following is an example of a document that an original classifier has determined requires 

protection under E.O. 13526. It contains the primary markings required under the Order, including:

 Portion markings; 

 Overall classification markings; and

 Classification authority block consisting of:

• A “Classified By” line to include the identity, by name and position, or by personal 

 identifier of the original classifier, and if not otherwise evident, the agency and office of 

 origin. 

• The “Reason” for classification as provided in section 1.4 of the Order. 

• A “Declassify On” line which shall indicate one of the following durations of classification:

 A date or event for declassification that corresponds to the lapse of the 

 information’s national security sensitivity, which is equal to or less than 10 years 

 from the date of the original decision.

 A date not to exceed 25 years from the date of the original decision. 

 If the classified information should clearly and demonstrably be expected to reveal 

 the identity of a confidential human source or a human intelligence source, no date 

 or event shall be annotated and the marking “50X1-HUM” shall be used.

 If the classified information should clearly and demonstrably be expected to reveal 

 key design concepts of weapons of mass destruction, no date or event shall be 

 annotated and the marking “50X2-WMD” shall be used.

NOTE: Ensure the document you create is dated. Having the correct 

date of origin of the document may be critical when creating other 

documents using your originally classified document as a source. 
 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: Examples

1. Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. Therefore, 

this portion will be marked with the designation “S” in 

parentheses preceding the portion.

3. Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

Document before the 

markings are applied.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20150627

NOTE: The date for declassification 

may be displayed either by spelling 

out the month (June 27, 2015), or 

numerically (20150627). When 

displayed numerically, the following 

format must be used: YYYYMMDD. 

Document after the 

markings are applied.
- 5 - 

Step 1 – Portion marking

 Identify the classification level of each portion.

• A portion is ordinarily defined as a paragraph, but also includes subjects, titles, graphics, 

tables, charts, bullet statements, sub-paragraphs, classified signature blocks, bullets and 

other portions within slide presentations, and the like. 

• Portion markings consist of the letters “(U)” for Unclassified, “(C)” for Confidential, 

“(S)” for Secret, and “(TS)” for Top Secret.

• The two paragraphs of this sample document contain “Secret” and “Unclassified” 

information, respectively.

• The abbreviations, in parentheses, are placed before the portion to which they apply. 

Portion mark as illustrated in this example.

NOTE: Portion marking waivers may be requested by an agency head or 

senior agency official. Such requests shall be submitted to the Director of 

ISOO. See 32 CFR Part 2001.24(k) for more information. 

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

• (S) If all sub-paragraphs are the same classification 

as the primary paragraph, then you do not need to 

portion mark the sub-paragraphs.

• (U) However, if the portions are not all the same 

classification, then all main and sub-paragraphs must 

be individually marked.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.
Step 2 – Overall classification marking

 Identify the overall classification of the document. This will be equal to the highest 

 classification level of any one portion found in the document. In this example, the highest 

 classification is “Secret,” found in paragraph 2.

• Conspicuously place the overall classification at the top and bottom of the page. 

• If the document contains more than one page, place the overall marking at the top and 

bottom of the outside of the front cover, on the title page, on the first page, and on the 

outside of the back cover (if any).

• Mark other internal pages either with the overall classification or with a marking 

indicating the highest classification level of information contained on that page.

NOTE: Some agencies require additional dissemination and control 

markings that accompany the overall classification markings.

Contact your security manager for agency-specific guidelines.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 
Step 3 – Classification authority block: “Classified By” line

 Identify the original classification authority (OCA) by name and position or personal identifier.

• If the identity of the originating agency or office is not apparent on the face of the 

document, place it immediately following the name and position or personal identifier 

provided in the “Classified By” line.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classified By: ID # 54632

OCA by name and position

OCA by personal identifier
Step 4 – Classification authority block: “Reason” for classification 

line

 Place the number 1.4 plus the letter(s) that correspond(s) to the classification category in section 

1.4 of E.O. 13526. These categories, as they appear in the Order, include the following:

 (a) military plans, weapons systems, or 

 operations; 

 (b) foreign government information;

 (c) intelligence activities (including covert 

 action), intelligence sources or methods, 

 or cryptology; 

 (d) foreign relations or foreign activities of 

 the United States, including confidential 

 sources;

 (e) scientific, technological, or economic 

 matters relating to the national security;

 (f) United States Government programs for 

 safeguarding nuclear materials or facilities;

 (g) vulnerabilities or capabilities of systems, 

 installations, infrastructures, projects, 

 plans, or protection services relating to 

 the national security; or

 (h) the development, production, or use of 

 weapons of mass destruction. 

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(c)
Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20150701

Step 5 – Classification authority block: “Declassify On” line

 This indicates the duration of classification. An original classifier must choose one of the 

 following declassification instructions, selecting whenever possible, the declassification 

 instruction that will result in the shortest duration of classification.

A date not to exceed 25 years from the date of the 

original classification decision (date of document 

is July 1, 2010).

 A date or event that is less than 10 years from the 

date of original classification (date of document is 

July 1, 2010)

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20200701

A date that is 10 years from the date of the 

original classification decision (date of document 

is July 1, 2010)

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20350701

 If the information should clearly and 

demonstrably be expected to reveal key design 

concepts of weapons of mass destruction, the 

duration shall be up to 75 years and shall be 

designated as 50X2-WMD.

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(c)

Declassify On: 50X1-HUM

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(h)

Declassify On: 50X2-WMD

NOTE: When 50X1-HUM and 50X2-WMD are used, a specific date or event for 

declassification of the information will not be used. Approval by the ISCAP is not 

required prior to agency use of 50X1-HUM or 50X2-WMD; however, it will need to be 

included in a classification guide with sufficient detail to enable effective use.

 Exceptions to this sequence:

 If the information should clearly and 

demonstrably be expected to reveal the identity 

of a confidential human source or a human 

intelligence source, the duration of classification 

shall be up to 75 years and shall be designated 

as 50X1-HUM. 
This page left blank.
- 10 -

SECRET

Derivative classification is the act of incorporating, paraphrasing, restating, or generating in new form 

information that is already classified, and marking the newly developed material consistent with the 

markings of the source information. The source information ordinarily consists of a classified 

document or documents, or a classification guide issued by an original classification authority.

When using a classified source document as the basis for derivative classification, the markings on the 

source document determine the markings to be applied to the derivative document. When using a 

classification guide as the basis for derivative classification, the instructions provided by the guide are 

to be applied to the derivative document.

The following examples are of a properly marked source document and a properly marked derivative 

document, followed by the steps taken to create the derivative document. 

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains unclassified information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

Source Document

 

 Department of Information

 Washington, D.C. 20008

July 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR AGENCY OFFICIALS

From: Joe Carver, Director

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains information from Paragraph 2 

in the source document and is therefore marked (S).

2. (U) Paragraph 2 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Department of Good Works Memorandum 

 dated June 27, 2010, Subj: (U) Examples

Declassify On: 20151231 

Derivative Document

SECRET
Step 1 - Portion marking

Paragraph 1 of the derivative 

document incorporates information 

from paragraph 2 of the source 

document. Therefore, the portion 

marking is carried over to the 

derivative document.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

Source Document

 

 Department of Information

 Washington, D.C. 20008

July 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR AGENCY OFFICIALS

From: Joe Carver, Director

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains information from Paragraph 2 

in the source document and is therefore marked (S).

2. (U) Paragraph 2 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

Derivative Document
Source Document

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

Step 2 - Overall 

classification marking

The highest level of any portion of this 

derivative document is “Secret.” 

Therefore, conspicuously place an overall 

classification of “SECRET” at the top 

and bottom of the derivative document. 

Derivative Document

 

 Department of Information

 Washington, D.C. 20008

July 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR AGENCY OFFICIALS

From: Joe Carver, Director

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains information from Paragraph 2 

in the source document and is therefore marked (S).

2. (U) Paragraph 2 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 
 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

Source Document

 

 Department of Information

 Washington, D.C. 20008

July 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR AGENCY OFFICIALS

From: Joe Carver, Director

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains information from Paragraph 2 

in the source document and is therefore marked (S).

2. (U) Paragraph 2 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director 

Derivative Document

Step 3 – Classification authority 

block: “Classified By” line

Derivative classifiers shall be identified by name 

and position, or by personal identifier, in a 

manner that is immediately apparent on each 

derivatively classified document.

NOTE: If not otherwise evident, 

the agency and office of origin 

shall be identified and placed 

immediately following the name 

and position or personal identifier 

provided in the “Classified By” 

line.
SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

Step 4 – Classification 

authority block: “Derived 

From” line

Precisely identify the source document or the 

classification guide on the ‘‘Derived From’’ 

line, including the agency and, where available, 

the office of origin, and the date of the source 

or guide.

Source Document

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

Derivative Document

 

 Department of Information

 Washington, D.C. 20008

July 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR AGENCY OFFICIALS

From: Joe Carver, Director

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains information from Paragraph 2 

in the source document and is therefore marked (S).

2. (U) Paragraph 2 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Department of Good Works 

 Memorandum dated June 27, 2010, Subj: (U) Examples
Step 4 - “Derived From” line, cont’d

When using multiple source documents, the “Derived From” line shall appear as:

Derived From: Multiple Sources

The derivative classifier shall include a listing of the 

source materials on, or attached to, each derivatively 

classified document. There is no required placement of 

the source list within the document, only that it be 

included in, or attached to, the document.

Sources:

1. Dept of Good Works Memorandum 

 dated June 27, 2010, Subj: Examples

2. Dept of Good Works Memorandum 

 dated May 30, 2009, Subj: Examples

3. Radar SCG dated February 2, 2006, Section 

 12, item 7.

A document derivatively classified on the basis of a source document that is itself marked “Multiple 

Sources” shall cite the source document on its “Derived From” line rather than the term “Multiple 

Sources.” An example might appear as:

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Derived From: Multiple Sources

Declassify On: 20200627

Source Document

Derivative Document

 

 Department of Information

 Washington, D.C. 20008

July 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR AGENCY OFFICIALS

From: Joe Carver, Director

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains information from Paragraph 2 

in the source document and is therefore marked (S).

2. (U) Paragraph 2 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Department of Good Works Memorandum 

 dated June 27, 2010, Subj: Examples

Declassify On: 20200627 

SECRET

Example

Example
Derivative Document

Step 5 – Classification 

authority block: “Declassify 

On” line

The derivative classifier shall carry forward 

the instructions on the ‘‘Declassify On’’ line 

from the source document to the derivative 

document, or the duration instruction from 

the classification or declassification guide. 

(See the following pages for additional 

guidance when the source document 

contains missing, unauthorized, or multiple 

declassification instructions.)

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20150627 

Source Document

 

 Department of Information

 Washington, D.C. 20008

July 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR AGENCY OFFICIALS

From: Joe Carver, Director

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains information from Paragraph 2 

in the source document and is therefore marked (S).

2. (U) Paragraph 2 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Department of Good Works Memorandum 

 dated June 27, 2010, Subj: (U) Examples

Declassify On: 20150627 
Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

If the source document is missing the declassification instruction, then a calculated date of 25 years from 

the date of the source document (if available) or the current date (if the source document date is not 

available) shall be carried forward by the derivative classifier.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Source Document

 

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Department of Good Works 

 Memorandum dated June 27, 2010, Subj: (U) Examples

Declassify on: 20350627 

Derivative Document
SECRET 

Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

When a document is classified derivatively on the basis of more than one source document or more than 

one element of a classification guide, the ‘‘Declassify On’’ line shall reflect the longest duration of 

classification of any of its sources. 

 

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Multiple Sources

Declassify On: 20290530

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” in

Therefore, this portion will be marked with th

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the 

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” informat

Therefore, this portion will be marked with th

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the 

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

formation. 

e 

portion.

ion. 

e 

portion.

5

Source Document 1

Of the two declassification dates, 20151231 and 

20290530, the date from source document 2 has 

the longest duration of classification and will be 

carried forward to the derivative document.

Source Document 2

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

May 30, 2009

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20290530

SECRET 

Derivative Document
When determining the most restrictive declassification instruction among multiple source 

documents for placement in the “Declassify On” line, adhere to the following hierarchy:

1. “50X1-HUM” or “50X2-WMD” exemptions, or 

 an approved exemption (“50X1” through “50X9”) 

 reflecting the ISCAP approval for classification 

 beyond 50 years in accordance with section 

 3.3(h)(2) of the Order.

2. “25X1” through “25X9” exemptions, with a date 

 or event.

3. A specific declassification date or event within 

 25 years.

4. Absent guidance from an original classification 

 authority with jurisdiction over the information, a 

 calculated 25-year date from the date of the 

 source document.

Reference: 32 CFR Part 2001.22(e)(4)

If the source documents contain multiple 25X markings, only one of the markings is required 

to be placed on the derivative document, as long as it is the one with the longest duration of 

classification. For example:

 Document 1 – 25X3, 20350215

 Document 2 – 25X5, 20320510

 Document 3 – 25X4, 20301220

The marking from document 1 (25X3, 20350215) would be carried over to the derivative 

document and placed in the “Declassify On” line.
NOTE: Executive Order 12958, 

issued in 1995, eliminated the use 

of “OADR” on documents created 

on or after October 14, 1995.

Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

When a document is classified derivatively either from a source document(s) or a classification guide 

that contains one of the following obsolete declassification instructions, ‘‘Originating Agency’s 

Determination Required,’’ ‘‘OADR,’’ or “Manual Review,” “MR,” or any of the exemption markings 

“X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and X8,” the derivative classifier shall calculate a date that is 25 years 

from the date of the source document when determining a derivative document’s date or event to be 

placed in the “Declassify On” line.

If the source document does not contain a date, then the declassification date on the derivative 

document will be 25 years from the date of the derivative document’s creation. 

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Department of Good Works 

 Memorandum dated Feb 2, 1994 

 Subj: (U) Examples

Declassify On: 20190202 

Derivative Document

Do not carry forward “OADR.” 

Change “OADR” to 25 years from 

the date of the source document

Source Document

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

February 2, 1994

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: OADR 

SECRET
Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

When a document is classified derivatively either from a source document(s) or a classification guide that 

contains one of the following obsolete declassification instructions, ‘‘Originating Agency’s Determination 

Required,’’ ‘‘OADR,’’ or “Manual Review,” “MR,” or any of the exemption markings “X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, 

X6, X7, and X8,” the derivative classifier shall calculate a date that is 25 years from the date of the source 

document when determining a derivative document’s date or event to be placed in the “Declassify On” line.

If the source document does not contain a date, then the declassification date on the derivative document 

will be 25 years from the date of the derivative document’s creation. 

NOTE: Executive Order 12958, 

as amended, issued in 2003, 

eliminated the use of X1, X2, 

X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and X8 on 

documents created on or after 

September 22, 2003.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

August 20, 2002

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify on: X3

Source Document

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Derived From: Department of Good Works Memorandum dated 

 Aug 20, 2002, Subj: (U) Examples

Declassify On: 20270820

Derivative Document

Do not carry forward “X3.” 

Change “X3” to 25 years from the 

date of the source document
If the source document does not contain a date, then the declassification date on the derivative 

document will be 25 years from the date of the derivative document’s creation. 

Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

When a document is classified derivatively either from a source document(s) or a classification guide that 

contains one of the following obsolete declassification instructions, ‘‘Originating Agency’s Determination 

Required,’’ ‘‘OADR,’’ or “Manual Review,” “MR,” or any of the exemption markings X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, 

X6, X7, and X8, the derivative classifier shall calculate a date that is 25 years from the date of the source 

document when determining a derivative document’s date or event to be placed in the “Declassify On” line.

NOTE: “MR” (Manual Review) was neither 

intended nor authorized as a marking for the 

“Declassify on” line on documents classified 

under any executive order. If “MR” appears 

in the “Declassify on” line of a source 

document, mark the derivative document 

with a declassification date no more than 25 

years from the date of the source document.

 

SECRET 

Classified By: Joan Smith, Program Analyst

Derived From: Department of Good Works Memorandum 

 dated Feb 15, 2004, Subj: (U) Examples

Declassify On: 20290215 

Derivative Document

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

February 15, 2004

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

3. (C) Paragraph 3 contains “Confidential” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “C” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: MR

Source Document

Do not carry forward “MR.” 

Change “MR” to 25 years from the 

date of the source document
Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

NOTE: E.O. 12951, Release of 

Imagery Acquired by Space-Based 

National Intelligence Reconnaissance 

Systems, gives the Director of National 

Intelligence (DNI) the authority to 

declassify intelligence imagery. 

“DNI Only” and “DCI Only” are no longer 

valid declassification instructions and, if 

annotated on the source document, will not 

be carried over to the derivative document.

If no imagery is carried 

forward to the derivative 

document, a declassification 

date will be calculated 25 years 

from the date of the source 

document.

SECRET

Department of Good Works

Washington, D.C. 20006

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Classified By: OCA name and position

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: DCI Only

SECRET

SECRET

Department of Good Works

Washington, D.C. 20006

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx.

Classified By: Derivative classifier’s name

Derived From: Dept of Good Works Memo, 

 dtd July 15, 2010

Declassify On: 25X1, E.O. 12951

SECRET

Derivative Document

Source Document

July 15, 2010

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxxx.

Classified By: OCA

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: DNI Only

January 21, 2011

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxxxxxxxx.

Classified By: derivative 

 classifier’s name

Derived From: Dept of Good 

 Works Memo, dtd July 15, 2010

Declassify On: 20350715

Source Document Derivative Document 

If the document contains imagery, as described in E.O. 12951, 

the derivative classifier will mark the derivative document in 

the following manner: Declassify on: 25X1, E.O. 12951.
Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

When creating a new, originally classified U.S. document containing 

FGI, the statement “Subject to Treaty or International Agreement” is 

not to be used in the “Declassify On” line. 

If this marking still appears on a document being used as a source, the marking annotated on the 

derivative document will be changed to a date that is 25 years from the date of the source document. If the 

source document does not contain a date, then the declassification date will be 25 years from the date of the 

derivative document’s creation. 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Derived From: Multiple Sources

Declassify On: Subject to Treaty or International 

 Agreement

SECRET

THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS (COUNTRY 

OF ORIGIN) INFORMATION

Source Document

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Derived From: Multiple Sources

Declassify On: Subject to Treaty or International Agreement

SECRET

THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS (COUNTRY 

OF ORIGIN) INFORMATION

Classified By: Joan Smith, Program Analyst

Derived From: [Agency] Memorandum dated May 15, 2000

Declassify On: May 15, 2025

SECRET

THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS (COUNTRY 

OF ORIGIN) INFORMATION

Derivative Document

June 21, 2003

May 15, 2000

Change “Subject to Treaty or 

International Agreement” to 25 

years from the date of the source 

document

NOTE: Additional guidance on marking 

documents containing FGI can be found 

on page 32.
Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

“25X1-human” is no longer authorized as 

a declassification instruction when 

creating new originally or derivatively 

classified documents. If your source 

document contains the “25X1-human” 

declassification instruction, change it to 

50X1-HUM on the newly created 

derivatively classified document. 

 

SECRET

Classified By: Joe Carver, Director

Reason: 1.4(c)

Declassify On: 25X1-human

Source Document

 

SECRET

Classified By: Joan Smith, Program Analyst

Derived From: Department of Good Works Memorandum 

 dated June 27, 2010, Subj: (U) Examples

Declassify On: 50X1-HUM

Derivative Document
Declassification Instructions on Derivatively Classified Documents:

The 25X exemptions may only be used on 

the “Declassify On” line if an agency has 

identified permanently valuable 

information that needs to be exempted 

from automatic declassification at 25 

years and has received approval from the 

Interagency Security Classification 

Appeals Panel (ISCAP) to exempt the 

information and to incorporate the 

exemption into a classification guide. 

(See 32 CFR Part 2001.26.)

When using an approved exemption, a 

date or event that has been approved by 

the ISCAP must be included with the 

marking and shall not exceed 

50 years from the date of the document.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

February 15, 2004

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the 

designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Derived From: SCG title and date

Declassify On: 25X3, 20540215

Use of 25X1 through 25X9 Exemptions
Derivatively Classifying from a Classification Guide

A classification guide is a document issued by an OCA that provides derivative classification 

instructions. It describes the elements of information that must be protected, the reason for 

classification, and the level and duration of classification. The examples on the next page show 

how to apply instructions from the classification guide to a document.

DEPARTMENT OF GOOD WORKS

Security Classification 

Guide No. 129

August 20, 2009

This is a page from a sample guide.

Classification Guide No. 129

Subject Classification Instructions

 Level Reason Duration 

1. Program Planning U 

2. Program Progress U

3. Technical Scope C 1.4(e) 25 years see NOTE

 of A.B.C. 

4. Vulnerabilities S 1.4(g) June 23, 2019

5. Limitations U 

NOTE: “25 years” denotes 25 

years from the date of document 

creation, not the date of the 

security classification guide.
September 10, 2009

September 10, 2009

September 10, 2009

1. Based on guidance from the classification 

guide, apply appropriate portion markings.

(U) Title

1. (C) This paragraph includes 

information about the technical scope of 

A.B.C.

2. (U) This paragraph includes 

information on program planning.

3. (U) This paragraph includes 

information on program progress.

2. Apply overall classification markings.

CONFIDENTIAL

(U) Title

1. (C) This paragraph includes 

information about the technical scope of 

A.B.C.

2. (U) This paragraph includes 

information on program planning.

3. (U) This paragraph includes 

information on program progress.

CONFIDENTIAL

3. Apply classification authority block.

CONFIDENTIAL

(U) Title

1. (C) This paragraph includes 

information about the technical scope of 

A.B.C.

2. (U) This paragraph includes 

information on program planning.

3. (U) This paragraph includes 

information on program progress.

Classified By: John Doe, Program Analyst

Derived From: Department of Good Works 

 Classification Guide No. 129, dated 

 August 20, 2009, Item 3

Declassify On: 20340910

CONFIDENTIAL

Item 3 in the SCG specifies declassification 

at 25 years. This is 25 years from the date 

of document creation. 
This page left blank.
Only an OCA with jurisdiction over the 

information may extend the duration of 

classification for up to 25 years from 

the date of the origin of the document. 

Any extension beyond 25 years from 

the date of the origin of the document 

requires ISCAP approval. 

In cases where an extension is made, 

the “Declassify On” line shall be 

revised to include the new 

declassification instructions and shall 

include the identity of the person 

authorizing the extension and the date 

of the action.

Reasonable attempts should be made to 

notify all holders of a classification 

extension. As appropriate, 

classification guides shall be updated to 

reflect such extensions.

Classification Extensions

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2008

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1.

2. (S) Paragraph 2.

SECRET 

SECRET 

Classification extended on August 5, 2010 

until June 27, 2033 by Steven Brown, 

Director, Department of Good Works 

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 
Classification by Compilation

Section 1.7(e) of E.O. 13526 states that compilations of items of information that are individually 

unclassified may be classified if the compiled information reveals an additional association or 

relationship that: (1) meets the standards for classification under this order; and 

(2) is not otherwise revealed in the individual items of information. The Order also defines 

compilation as an aggregation of pre-existing unclassified items of information.

For the purpose of marking a document, this means that it may be possible to have a classified 

document in which all the individual portions are unclassified but because the compilation of the 

unclassified information reveals an association or relationship not otherwise evident when the 

portions are used individually, classification of the document and the application of required 

classification markings are warranted. In these cases, as required by 32 CFR Part 2001.24(g), 

clear instructions must be provided as to the circumstances under which the individual portions 

constitute a classified compilation and when they do not.

Two additional crucial points to consider are: (1) as with all other markings, information must be 

marked in a uniform and conspicuous manner so as to leave no doubt as to the classified status of 

the information, the level of protection required, the reason for classification, and the duration of 

classification; and (2) access to or the sharing of unclassified information must not be impeded by 

unnecessarily or inappropriately applying classification where it’s not warranted. 

Examples of markings that may be applied to documents that are classified by compilation are on 

the next page.
In the first example, guidance is embedded in 

the individual paragraphs explaining that when 

the first two paragraphs are associated with one 

another, the information they reveal is 

classified. However, note that individually the 

paragraphs are marked (U), which indicates that 

when this information stands alone and is not 

associated with the other paragraph, it is 

unclassified and may be treated as such. The 

explanation in bold at the bottom of the 

document is an example of how to indicate 

classification by compilation and provide 

additional guidance to intended recipients.

In the second example, compilation 

guidance is explained on the bottom of the 

page, as shown here, or alternatively, is 

cited in an opening paragraph. Note, as in 

the first example, that individually the 

paragraphs are marked (U), which indicates 

that when this information is standing alone 

and not associated with the other paragraph, 

it is unclassified and may be treated as 

such.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2008

1. (U) This paragraph, when associated with paragraph 2, is 

classified SECRET.

2. (U) This paragraph, when associated with paragraph 1, is 

classified SECRET.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

Classified by compilation: The individual portions of 

this document are unclassified (and may be used, stored, 

transmitted, and shared as unclassified) except where 

otherwise noted within the body of the document.

Example 1

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2008

1. (U) This paragraph contains the weight of widget A.

2. (U) This paragraph contains the height of widget A.

3. (U) This paragraph contains the length of widget A.

4. (U) This paragraph contains the cost of widget A.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Reason: 1.4(a)

Declassify On: 20151231 

Classified by compilation: The weight of widget A 

when combined with or used in association with the 

height of widget A, is classified Secret. In all other 

instances the individual portions or combinations of 

portions of this document are unclassified.

Example 2
Foreign Government Information

Some agencies may require that documents 

containing classified foreign government 

information be marked with:

“This document contains (country of origin) 

information.”

Mark the portions that contain the foreign 

government information to indicate the country 

of origin and the classification level. Substitute 

the words “Foreign Government Information” 

or “FGI” in instances in which the identity of 

the specific government must be concealed.

If the fact that information is foreign 

government information must be concealed, the 

markings described here shall not be used and 

the document shall be marked as if it were 

wholly of U.S. origin.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

February 15, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (C) Paragraph 1 contains classified information from a 

U.S. source document. Therefore, this portion will be 

marked with the designation “C” in parentheses.

2. (Country of Origin S) Paragraph 2 contains classified 

information marked “Secret” by the country of origin. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked to indicate the 

country of origin and the level of classification.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Derived From: Multiple Sources

Declassify On: 20350215

THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS (COUNTRY 

OF ORIGIN) INFORMATION

Note on the “Declassify On” line: Foreign government information must be marked with 

a declassification date of up to 25 years, unless the originating agency has applied for and 

received approval from the ISCAP to exempt the FGI from declassification at 25 years. 

Upon receipt of ISCAP approval, the 25X6 or 25X9 exemption markings, as appropriate, 

may be used in the “Declassify On” line followed by a date that has been approved by the 

ISCAP.

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Derived From: Multiple Sources

Declassify On: 25X6, 20500215

SECRET

THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS (COUNTRY 

OF ORIGIN) INFORMATION
Commingling of Restricted Data (RD) and Formerly Restricted 

Data (FRD) with Information Classified under the Order

To the extent practicable, the commingling in the same document of RD or FRD with information 

classified under the Order should be avoided. When it is not practicable to avoid such 

commingling, the marking requirements in the Order and the Directive, as well as the marking 

requirements in 10 CFR Part 1045, Nuclear Classification and Declassification, must be 

followed.

For commingled documents, the “Declassify On” line shall not include a declassification date or 

event and shall instead be annotated with “Not Applicable (or N/A) to RD/FRD portions” and “See 

source list for NSI portions.” The source list, as described in 32 CFR Part 2001.22(c)(1)(ii), shall 

include the declassification instruction for each of the source documents classified under the Order 

and shall not appear on the front page of the document.

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

February 15, 2004

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (S) Paragraph 1 contains “Secret” national security 

information. Therefore, this portion will be marked with 

the designation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

2. (S//RD) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret Restricted Data” 

information. Therefore, this portion will be marked with 

the designation “S//RD” in parentheses preceding the 

portion.

SECRET//RESTRICTED DATA

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Derived From: SCG title and date

Declassify On: Not applicable to RD/FRD portions. See 

 source list for NSI portions.

SECRET//RESTRICTED DATA
(C) This cover letter will accompany a classified package 

and will be appropriately marked as a transmittal 

document.

SECRET

Classified By: ID #78596

Derived From: Memo dated May 27, 2010

Declassify On: 20200507 

Downgrade to CONFIDENTIAL when 

separated from SECRET enclosures.

Classified Transmittal 

Document that 

Contains 

Downgrading 

Instructions

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: Transmittal Document

This cover letter will accompany a classified package

and will be appropriately marked as a transmittal 

document.

This page UNCLASSIFIED when 

classified enclosure removed

SECRET

SECRET

Unclassified Transmittal Document

 

 Department of Good Works

 Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Transmittal Document

(S) This cover letter will accompany a classified package 

and will be appropriately marked as a transmittal 

document.

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: ID #78596

Derived From: Memo dated May 27, 2010

Declassify On: 20200507 

Classified Transmittal Document

Transmittal Document

A transmittal document can consist of anything that accompanies a classified package such as a 

memorandum or a staff summary sheet.

An unclassified transmittal document shall indicate on its face:

• The highest classification level of any classified information attached or enclosed;

• Instructions such as “Unclassified when classified enclosure removed” or “Upon removal of 

attachments, this document is [classification level].”

A classified transmittal document shall contain the same markings as required on all classified documents 

(i.e., overall classification, portion markings, classification authority block).

NOTE: Some agencies 

may require portion 

markings on unclassified 

transmittal documents. 

Contact your security 

manager for agencyspecific guidance. 
Transmittal document statement

Transmittal Document - E-mails can also serve as transmittal documents. 
This page left blank.
Slide Presentations

SECRET

(U) Examples of 

PowerPoint Slide 

Markings

May 27, 2010

Classified By: ID #85967

Derived From: SCG Title, Date

Declassify On: 20150527

SECRET 

Title slide:

•Portion markings

•Overall markings

•Classification authority 

 block (may be placed on either 

 first or last slide of presentation)

SECRET

(U) Example of Slide Markings

S) This bullet contains “Secret” information. 

refore, this portion will be marked with the 

ignation “S” in parentheses preceding the portion.

) This bullet contains “Unclassified” information. 

refore this portion will be marked with the 

ignation “U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

 

SECRET 

• (

The

des

• (U

The

des

 

Slide 2:

•Portion markings

•Overall markings

Slide 3:

•Portion markings

•Overall markings

 SECRET

 

 SECRET

(U) Declassification

1st Qtr

2nd Qtr

3rd Qtr

4th Qtr

(U) This slide 

demonstrates how 

to properly mark a 

slide that contains a 

chart, graph, picture, 

etc.

SECRET

In this example, the portion marking 

applied to the graphic is spelled out 

(SECRET) instead of being abbreviated. 

This is a recommended way to apply 

markings that provide distinction 

between the classified status of a 

graphic, the title of a graphic, and the 

overall classification of a slide.
1. Portion marking

2. Overall classification of document

3. “Classified by:” line

4. “Derived from:” line

5. “Declassify on:” line

6. List of multiple sources

May be annotated on 

either first or last slide

1. Portion marking

2. Overall classification of page

Note: the overall classification on 

internal slide may be the 

classification of the document, or 

the classification of the individual 

slide.

3. Classified By: ID #85967

4. Derived From: Multiple Sources

5. Declassify On: 20150817

6. Mutiple Sources: Basic SCG, January 5, 2009

 [Agency] Memo, March 10, 2010, Subj: (U) Markings
• (S) Main paragraph 1

• Sub-paragraph 1

• Sub-paragraph 2

• Sub-paragraph 3

• (U) Main paragraph 2

• (S) Sub-paragraph 1

• (U) Sub-paragraph 2

• (U) Sub-paragraph 3

• (C) Sub-paragraph 4

• (S) Sub-paragraph 5

SECRET

SECRET

Classified By: ID # 87596

Derived From: SCG title, dtd 17 April 2009

Declassify On: 20140417

The same rules 

apply for 

paragraphs and 

sub-paragraphs

Note: per 32 CFR 2001.21(c)(3), if 

the sub-portions are the same 

classification as the main portion, 

the sub-portions do not require 

marking.

However, if the portions are not all 

the same classification, then all 

main and sub-bullets must be 

individually marked.

Classified By: ID # 87596

Derived From: SCG title, dtd 17 April 2009

Declassify On: 20140417
Options for Marking Complex Slides

Option 1: When all 

portions are 

classified at the same 

level, mark the 

overall classification 

of the slide only; this 

annotates that 

everything on this 

diagram is classified 

at that level. 

SECRET

SECRET

All portions are classified SECRET unless otherwise marked.

Unclassified

Option 2: When a 

majority of the 

portions are 

classified, mark 

the overall 

classification of 

the slide, indicate 

the classification 

of the majority of 

the portions, and 

portion mark the 

exceptions.

SECRET

SECRET

NOTE: These options are to be used only on complex slides 

where portion marking everything would be difficult and 

would detract from the information on the slide itself. 
Option 3: When a majority of the portions are unclassified, mark the overall 

classification of the slide, indicate that the majority of the portions are 

unclassified, and portion mark the classified portions.

SECRET

SECRET

SECRET

All portions are UNCLASSIFIED unless otherwise marked.

NOTE: These options are to be used only on complex slides 

where portion marking everything would be difficult and 

would detract from the information on the slide itself. 
E-Mail

Classification marking of title of attachment

Note: This is the classification of the title of the attachment, and not 

the classification of the file itself. Most titles should be unclassified, 

but this example shows an attachment with a classified title.

Portion markings

Overall classification

Classification 

authority block

Classified By: John Smith, Program Analyst

Derived From: Memo dated June 21, 2010, Subj: Classification Markings

Declassify On: 20150621
Declassified Documents

32 CFR 2001.25 Declassification Markings

(b) The following markings shall be applied to records, or copies of records, regardless of the media:

(1) The word, “Declassified”

(2) The identity of the declassification authority, by name and position, or by personal identifier, or the title and 

date of the declassification guide

(3) The date of declassification

(4) The overall classification markings that appear on the cover page or first page shall be lined with an “X” or 

straight line. 

NOTE: for clarification, the classification markings on all pages should be lined through .

This only applies to 

documents that are 

still in possession of 

the agency . This is 

usually seen with 

documents that are 

requested under FOIA, 

MDR, or declassified 

under the discretionary 

authority of an agency. 

Records that are being 

reviewed for 

automatic 

declassification under 

section 3.3 of the 

Order and records 

accessioned to the 

National Archives 

should not be 

remarked.

SECRET

Department of Good Works

Washington, D.C. 20006

June 27, 2010

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR

From: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5

Subject: (U) Examples

1. (U) Paragraph 1 contains “Unclassified” information. 

Therefore, this portion will be marked with the designation 

“U” in parentheses preceding the portion.

• (S) If all sub-paragraphs are the same classification as 

the primary paragraph, then you do not need to portion 

mark the sub-paragraphs.

• (U) However, if the portions are not all the same 

classification, then all main and sub-paragraphs must be 

individually marked.

2. (S) Paragraph 2 contains “Secret” information. Therefore, 

this portion will be marked with the designation “S” in 

parentheses preceding the portion.

Classified By: John E. Doe, Chief Division 5 or

 ID # 54632

Reason: 1.4(c)

Declassify On: 20300627

SECRET

Cross out the classified 

portion markings and 

remark

(U)

(U)

Cross out the overall 

classification markings 

and remark

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

Add the authority for 

the declassification 

action and the date of 

declassification
Marking of Electronic Storage Media and Equipment

SECRET

SECRET

Label with the highest classification level of 

information authorized to be processed on the device

Label all removable media with the highest classification 

level of any system into which the media has been inserted.

(Ref: CNSSP-26, para. 5.h)

Within a classified environment, the following labels are authorized for use: 

(Ref: 32 CFR 2001.80) 

SF 706 SF 707 SF 708 SF 709 SF 710

Note: for CDs/DVDs, it may not be advisable to 

attach a Standard Form label as it may damage the 

disk drive. However, if you do not use the SF 

labels, then you must either use a CD label with 

the appropriate markings on it, or write the 

classification information on the CD itself. 

SECRET

SECRET

SECRET
Summary of Classification Authority Block

Originally Classified Document Derivatively Classified Document

Classified By:

Reason:

Declassify On:

Classified By:

Derived From:

Declassify On:

Classified By: the name and position or personal identifier of the creator of the document.

Reason: reason [from E.O. 13526, Section 1.4] information is classified. Annotated only on originally 

classified documents.

Derived From: information identifying the source document. Annotated only on derivatively classified 

documents.

Declassify On: the date the document is to be declassified.
(a) military plans, weapons systems, or operations

(b) foreign government information

(c) intelligence activities (including covert action), intelligence sources or methods, or cryptology

(d) foreign relations or foreign activities of the United States, including confidential sources

(e) scientific, technological, or economic matters relating to the national security

(f) United States Government programs for safeguarding nuclear materials or facilities

(g) vulnerabilities or capabilities of systems, installations, infrastructures, projects, plans, or 

protection services relating to the national security

(h) the development, production, or use of weapons of mass destruction 

Reasons for Classification E.O. 13526, Section 1.4
25X Exemptions from Automatic Declassification E.O. 13526, Section 3.3(b)

Specific information, the release of which should clearly and demonstrably be expected to:

(1) reveal the identify of a confidential human source, a human intelligence source, a relationship 

with an intelligence or security service of a foreign government or international organization, or a 

non-human intelligence source; or impair the effectiveness of an intelligence method currently in 

use, available for use, or under development

(2) reveal information that would assist in the development, production, or use of weapons of mass 

destruction

(3) reveal information that would impair U.S. cryptologic systems or activities

(4) reveal information that would impair the application of state-of-the-art technology within a 

U.S. weapon system

(5) reveal formally named or numbered U.S. military war plans that remain in effect, or reveal 

operational or tactical elements of prior plans that are contained in such active plans

(6) reveal information, including foreign government information, that would cause serious harm to 

relations between the United States and a foreign government, or to ongoing diplomatic activities 

of the United States

(7) reveal information that would impair the current ability of United States Government officials 

to protect the President, Vice President, and other protectees for whom protection services, in 

the interest of the national security, are authorized

(8) reveal information that would seriously impair current national security emergency 

preparedness plans or reveal current vulnerabilities of systems, installations, or infrastructures 

relating to the national security

(9) violate a statute, treaty, or international agreement that does not permit the automatic or 

unilateral declassification of information at 25 years.

50X Exemptions from Automatic Declassification E.O. 13526, Section 3.3(h)

(1) the identity of a confidential human source or a human intelligence source (50X1-HUM)

(2) key design concepts of weapons of mass destruction (50X2-WMD)

(3) in extraordinary cases, additional specific information formally approved by the ISCAP (50X__)

75X Exemptions from Automatic Declassification E.O. 13526, Section 3.3(h)(3)

Specific information that has been formally approved by the ISCAP.
This page left blank.
Changed Items

Updated references to E.O. 13526, dated December 29, 2009, and 32 CFR Part 2001, dated June 25, 2010.

Page 2: updated listing of unauthorized markings.

Page 5: portion markings will be placed preceding the portion.

Page 7: the original classification authority identified in the “Classified By” line may be by name and position or 

 by personal identifier.

Page 15: updated and expanded information for use of “Multiple Sources” on “Derived From” line.

Page 34: expanded information on use of transmittal documents.

New Items

Page 3: information on use of “50X1-HUM” and “50X2-WMD.”

Page 9: information on use of “50X1-HUM” and “50X2-WMD.”

Page 13: guidance on the required identification of derivative classifiers.

Guidance for declassification instructions on derivatively classified documents:

oPage 17: missing declassification instruction on source document.

oPage 18: “Multiple Sources” on source document.

oPage 20: “OADR” on source document.

oPage 21: “X1-X8” exemptions on source document.

oPage 22: “MR” or “manual review” on source document.

oPage 23: “DNI Only” or “DCI Only” on source document.

oPage 24: “Subject to Treaty or International Agreement” on source document.

oPage 25: “25X1-human” on source document.

Page 26: use of “50X” and “75X” exemptions.

Page 33: section on “Commingling of Restricted Data (RD) and Formerly Restricted Data (FRD) with 

 Information Classified under the Order.” 

Page 35: examples for slide presentations.

Page 40: instructions for marking classified e-mail.

Page 41: instructions for marking electronic media.

Revision 1 Changes (January 2012)

 Page 2: removed last statement regarding “25X1-human” marking. 

Page 23: clarified marking requirements for documents marked “DNI Only” or “DCI Only.”

 Page 25: updated marking requirement for derivative documents when source documents contain “25X1-human.”

 Page 41: clarified marking policy for removable media.

Revision 2 Changes (January 2014)

 Page 2: Reminders, 3rd bullet wording changed to match 32 CFR 2001.24(a). (change marked in purple)

 Page 37: new example of e-mail as a transmittal document.

 Page 45: added example of declassified document

 Page 47: added Section 5: Quick Reference
The Information Security Oversight Office

The National Archives Building

700 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20408

Phone: 202-357-5250 

Fax: 202-357-5907 

E-mail: isoo@nara.gov

Web page: www.archives.gov/isoo