Owner-Operator Lease Agreement Requirements: FMCSA Rules for Carriers and Drivers (2026)

Quick Answer

Owner-operator lease agreements are governed primarily by 49 CFR Part 376 — Lease and Interchange of Vehicles. Part 376 applies to for-hire motor carriers that lease equipment from owner-operators to conduct regulated transportation. The key operative section is 49 CFR 376.12, which lists 15 mandatory provisions every lease must contain.

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