Which documents are considered authorized sources of classified guidance?

Authorized sources of classified guidance are specifically designed to outline the classification of information and provide clear instructions on how to handle classified material. Security Classification Guides detail the criteria for classifying information and include information about which documents should be considered classified. Classified source documents are original documents that are already classified and provide a basis for further classification or guidance. The DD Form 254 is utilized as a contractual document that outlines requirements for handling classified information, particularly in contracts with private entities.

Because these sources are officially recognized and structured to provide guidance on classified information, they are integral to ensuring compliance with classification requirements and standards set forth by relevant authorities. In contrast, the other options consist of documents that typically do not provide authoritative classification guidance or could contain unclassified general information, making them unsuitable for the context of classified information management.