The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of the controlled deterioration test for the evaluation of melon seed vigor. Four seed lots of the Golden Mine hybrid with two moisture content levels (20 and 24%) were submitted to controlled deterioration, at 45°C, for 24 and 48 hours. The results were related to germination, first count, cool germination, seedling emergence and seedling length tests. It was concluded that the controlled deterioration test was efficient to determine different vigor levels of melon seeds. The controlled deterioration test, performed at 45°C for 48 hours, with seeds at 24% moisture content, was the most efficient to indicate seed vigor levels.