diff --git a/code/game/machinery/computer/research.dm b/code/game/machinery/computer/research.dm
index b51da245844e..dd95d9afb2fc 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/computer/research.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/computer/research.dm
@@ -160,6 +160,9 @@
 		if("broker_clearance")
 			if(!photocopier)
 				return
+			if(!SSobjectives.first_drop_complete)
+				visible_message(SPAN_NOTICE("Clearance access increase denied, first deployment necessary for purchase."))
+				return
 			if(GLOB.chemical_data.clearance_level < 5)
 				var/cost = max(RESEARCH_LEVEL_INCREASE_MULTIPLIER*(GLOB.chemical_data.clearance_level + 1), 1)
 				if(cost <= GLOB.chemical_data.rsc_credits)