MCO 5210.11F — Marine Corps Records Management Program

MCO 5210.11F governs the Marine Corps Records Management Program, including policy for managing records throughout their lifecycle.

Search MCO 5210.11F

  • Publication number: MCO 5210.11F
  • Title: MARINE CORPS RECORDS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
  • Date: 7 Apr 2015
  • Proponent: 05000 General Admin & Management
  • Status: Current

View MCO 5210.11F on armypubs.army.mil


It covers records scheduling, electronic and physical records, file plans, records transfers, vital records, and records management training. It requires records to follow NARA-approved dispositions and lifecycle management practices.

Applies to: This Order provides records management policy for commanders, Command Designated Records Managers (CDRM), administrative officers and clerks/specialists, Information Management Officers (IMO), and all active and reserve Marines, civilian Marines (union and non-union), and contractors working for the Marine Corps.

Topics covered

  • Records scheduling
  • Electronic records
  • Physical records
  • File plans and outlines
  • Records transfer processes
  • Vital records
  • Records management training

Questions and answers

What does MCO 5210.11F require for the records lifecycle?

Ensure all Marine Corps records and information follow proper lifecycle management, meaning they are created, preserved, made accessible, remain retrievable, and follow their proper dispositions according to NARA-approved retention schedules. (paragraph 4)

How must Marine Corps records be maintained throughout their lifecycle?

Regardless of form or medium, all Marine Corps records will be maintained using lifecycle management and, when possible, managed and remain in an electronic format throughout their lifecycle. (paragraph 4)

What schedules must Marine Corps records follow?

The Marine Corps schedules records according to NARA-approved records schedules. (paragraph 7)

When can non-records be destroyed?

Non-records as defined in Chapter 1 of this Order are destroyed when they are no longer needed for business use. (paragraph 1)

What must happen before records are destroyed?

Do not destroy anything until its disposition has been approved by NARA. (paragraph 1)

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