Record retention

If you submit a declaration of compliance for Category 2 or 3 drone operations, you must keep all supporting documentation that proves your aircraft meets the safety requirements. The FAA can request to see these records at any time.

How long you must keep records depends on your role:

• Manufacturers must retain records for two years after they stop producing that drone model
• Designers or modifiers must retain records for two years after submitting the declaration

If you submit an alternative means of compliance (a different way to meet the safety standards), you must keep the detailed description and justification for as long as the FAA accepts that alternative method.

This ensures the FAA can verify compliance even after initial approval, which is important for accident investigations or safety audits. Keep these records organized and accessible—you're required to provide them upon request.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*