The functions of this position were served by the Deputy Director of Central Intelligence (DDCI) until that position was abolished under the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. The position of DD/CIA was created administratively by then-D/CIA Porter Goss and is awaiting statutory approval from the U.S. Congress.
Under current law, the Deputy Director is appointed by the D/CIA and is not required to be confirmed by the United States Senate. The current Deputy Director is Michael Morell.