520045m

ENCLOSURE 4
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DoDM 5200.45, April 2, 2013
RECOMMENDED FORMAT FOR A SECURITY CLASSIFICATION GUIDE
1. INTRODUCTION
a. This enclosure discusses and illustrates a general format for a security classification guide.
Within the illustrated format, guidance included in brackets (“[ ]”) should be replaced with
information appropriate for the classification guide under development. Information in
parentheses (“( )”) provides amplifying information or guidance. Identified sections should be
included as appropriate for the needs of the system, plan, program, project, or mission covered
by the guide and additional paragraphs or sections may be added if needed to address topics or
requirements not covered by the example (e.g., release of information to contractors).
b. Where classification guidance is issued in a form other than a security classification guide
(e.g., in a memorandum, plan, order or letter), the document must have enough detail to address
all elements of information required by derivative classifiers. The guidance must be approved, in
writing, by the OCA.
c. The first interior page of the classification guide may be used as a foreword or
introduction, to provide a short synopsis of the technology, system, plan, program, project, or
mission covered in the guide. Such information can help potential users quickly understand the
content or subjects covered in the security classification guide in more detail than is apparent
from the title.
2. COVER PAGE. The recommended cover page format for a security classification guide
includes all of the information shown in Figure 3. If necessary, use an acronym, short title or
project number in order to keep title unclassified; place the most significant words of the guide’s
title first. Mark it “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY” or, if classified, with the appropriate
classification markings (including classification authority block, portion marks, and any special
handling caveats and distribution controls).
ENCLOSURE 4