AF Form 144: Top Secret Access Record & Cover Sheet (2026)

AF Form 144: Top Secret Access Record & Cover Sheet (2026) – The AF Form 144, officially titled TOP SECRET Access Record and Cover Sheet, serves as a critical document in the U.S. Air Force’s information security program. It tracks access to Top Secret (TS) classified material while functioning as a protective cover sheet. This form helps maintain strict accountability and prevents unauthorized disclosure of highly sensitive national security information.

Air Force members, especially Top Secret Control Officers (TSCOs), unit security managers, and personnel handling TS documents, rely on this form daily. Proper use ensures compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) and Air Force directives, reducing risks of security incidents or compromises.

What Is AF Form 144 and Its Purpose?

AF Form 144 documents every individual who accesses a specific copy of Top Secret material. It also serves as the cover sheet attached directly to the document.

Key purposes include:

  • Recording the names and dates of personnel granted access to particular TS information.
  • Providing a visible warning and protective layer for the classified document.
  • Maintaining a permanent disclosure record that stays with the material until it is destroyed, downgraded, or declassified.

The form establishes a clear audit trail for TS access. Each person’s name appears only once, regardless of how many times they view the material. This prevents redundant entries and simplifies tracking.

Unlike the standard SF 703 Top Secret Cover Sheet, the AF Form 144 combines access logging with cover functionality. TSCOs use it specifically for Air Force TS control accounts instead of (or in addition to) the generic SF 703 in certain scenarios.

When and Why to Use AF Form 144?

Use AF Form 144 for every copy of a Top Secret document created or received within an Air Force Top Secret Control Account (TSCA). The TSCO prepares a separate form for each physical or accountable copy.

It is required when:

  • Removing TS material from secure storage for use.
  • Allowing cleared personnel to review or work with the document.
  • Handling non-SCI Top Secret documents (Sensitive Compartmented Information often follows separate procedures).
  • Managing NATO or other special-category TS materials (with appropriate modifications, such as crossing out “Top Secret” and noting the correct category).

The form remains physically attached to the TS document at all times. Remove it only upon final disposition (destruction, downgrade, or declassification). This continuous attachment ensures the access record travels with the material.

In some units, such as those under Air Mobility Command or Air Force Global Strike Command, local instructions reinforce attaching the AF Form 144 to each TS copy and verifying its presence during inspections.

How to Complete AF Form 144 – Step-by-Step Guidance?

Although the official PDF provides the exact layout, standard fields typically include:

  1. Document Identification — Enter the document title, date, control number, copy number, and any other unique identifiers.
  2. Classification Markings — Prominently display “TOP SECRET” (or the appropriate NATO/special marking).
  3. Access Log Section — Columns or blocks for:
    • Printed Name
    • Signature
    • Date of Access
    • Organization or Duty Title (in some versions)
  4. TSCO or Preparer Information — Details on who prepared the form and the associated TS register entry (often linked to AF Form 143, the Top Secret Register Page).
  5. Warnings and Handling Instructions — Standard classified document caveats about unauthorized disclosure, reproduction, and storage.

Best Practices for Completion:

  • The TSCO prepares the form and attaches it to the front of the document.
  • Individuals accessing the material print their name and sign once only.
  • When the access log fills up, prepare a continuation sheet (second page) and attach it on top.
  • Keep entries legible and accurate — this record may be reviewed during security inspections or incident investigations.
  • Do not allow the form to separate from the document during handling or transport within approved areas.

For NATO or special documents, adjust markings as directed (e.g., add “COSMIC,” “ATOMAL,” or other indicators and modify the classification block if needed).

Key Procedures and Responsibilities

  • TSCO Role: Prepare the form for each TS copy, maintain it with the document, and ensure all access is properly logged. TSCOs often manage the overall Top Secret Control Account alongside AF Form 143 registers.
  • Document Holders/Users: Verify the AF Form 144 is attached and sign it before accessing the content. Report any issues immediately.
  • During Work Hours: When TS material is out of storage, the AF Form 144 (or AF Form 54 for computer decks in older guidance) serves in place of a standard cover sheet in many cases.
  • Disposition: Retain the form with the document until final disposition. In some commands, inactive AF Forms 144 are filed and retained for two years after the associated material’s accountability ends.
  • Inspections: Security managers and inspectors routinely check that an AF Form 144 is properly attached and completed for every TS document.

Always follow the latest DoDM 5200.01 (Volumes 1–3) and AFMAN 16-1404 series guidance, along with your local unit security instructions (e.g., wing or MAJCOM supplements).

Download the Official AF Form 144

The current official version is available directly from the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing site:

→ Download AF Form 144 PDF: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_oc/form/af144/af144.pdf

Use only this authenticated source for official work. Do not rely on unofficial templates or third-party sites for classified handling.

  • AF Form 143 — Top Secret Register Page (used for overall accountability of TS documents).
  • SF 703 — Standard Top Secret Cover Sheet (sometimes used in conjunction or as an alternative).
  • AF Form 310 — Document Receipt and Destruction Certificate (for tracking receipt and final destruction).
  • Governing Publications: DoDM 5200.01 Volumes 1–3, AFMAN 16-1404 series, and local Top Secret Control Program instructions.

For full policy details, consult the Air Force e-Publishing website (e-publishing.af.mil) or your unit Information Protection Office.

Why Proper Use of AF Form 144 Matters?

Strict adherence to AF Form 144 procedures protects national security, supports audit readiness, and helps prevent espionage or insider threat incidents. A missing or improperly completed form can trigger findings during self-inspections or higher-level reviews.

If you are a TSCO, security manager, or cleared Air Force member working with Top Secret information, ensure you are trained on current requirements. Contact your local security office for hands-on guidance or clarification specific to your unit.

Stay compliant. Protect the mission.

This article is for informational purposes and reflects publicly available guidance from official Air Force and DoD sources as of 2026. Always verify the latest instructions through official channels, as policies can be updated.