Distribution-based degradation models (or graphical approach in some literature) occur in a wide range of applications. However, few of existing methods have taken the validation of the built model into consideration. A validation methodology for distribution-based models is proposed in this paper. Since the model can be expressed as consisting of assumptions of model structures and embedded model parameters, the proposed methodology carries out the validation from these two aspects. By using appropriate statistical techniques, the rationality of degradation distributions, suitability of fitted models and validity of degradation models are validated respectively. A new statistical technique based on control limits is also proposed, which can be implemented in the validation of degradation models’ validity. The case study on degradation modeling of an actual accelerometer shows that the proposed methodology is an effective solution to the validation problem of distribution-based degradation models. Distribution-based degradation models (or graphical approach in some literature) occur in a wide range of applications. However, few of existing methods have taken the validation of the built model into consideration. A validation methodology for distribution-based models is proposed in this paper. Since the model can be expressed as consisting of assumptions of model structures and embedded model parameters, the proposed methodology carries out the validation from these two aspects. By using appropriate statistical techniques, the rationality of degradation distributions, suitability of fitted models and validity of degradation models are validated respectively. A new statistical technique based on control limits is also proposed, which can be implemented in the validation of degradation models’ validity. The case study on degradation modeling of an actual accelerometer shows that the proposed methodology is an effective solution to the validation problem of distribution-based degrada tion models.