ELDs For Rental Trucks: The 8 Day Rule Explained
Rules, prices and device details on this page were checked October 2026 against the official sources listed at the bottom. Where a provider doesn't publish a number, we say so instead of guessing.
Renting a truck while yours is in the shop, or picking one up for a short job, raises an obvious question: do you need an ELD in a truck you'll only have for a few days? Often, the answer is no. FMCSA has a specific exemption for short term rentals. But it comes with paperwork rules, and if you get them wrong you can still end up with a violation at roadside.
The 8 Day Rule
FMCSA granted an exemption, requested by the Truck Renting and Leasing Association (TRALA), that covers property carrying commercial motor vehicles rented for 8 days or less. Drivers of those trucks don't have to use an ELD. They can keep paper records of duty status instead, if they're required to keep logs at all.
Key points about the exemption:
- It applies to property carrying trucks, not passenger carrying vehicles.
- The rental term must be 8 days or less. That's the term in the rental agreement, not just how long you happen to drive it.
- It applies to any driver of a qualifying rental, regardless of who the motor carrier is.
- FMCSA renewed it in 2022, and it runs from October 12, 2022 to October 12, 2027.
Since the exemption has an end date, check FMCSA's specialty operations page before late 2027 to see if it's been renewed again. Checked October 2026, it's in effect.
What to Carry
This is where drivers get caught. To use the exemption, the driver must have these in the truck:
- A copy of the exemption notice. FMCSA says drivers should carry a copy of the Federal Register notice granting the exemption.
- The rental agreement. It must show the parties to the rental, the vehicle and the dates of the rental.
- Records of duty status. If you're required to keep logs, you need records for the current day and the prior 7 days.
That last point catches people out. If you were driving your own truck with an ELD earlier in the week, you still need those prior days with you. Print them or have them ready to show from your ELD app, and continue on paper for the rental.
If the rental goes past 8 days, the exemption no longer applies. You'd need an ELD from that point unless another exemption fits.
Paper Logs
When you use the exemption, you fill out paper logs that meet the standard RODS rules under 49 CFR 395.8. A paper log needs:
- A grid showing each duty status through the day.
- The date, total miles driven, truck and trailer numbers and carrier name.
- Your main office address and the 24 hour period starting time.
- Your signature certifying the entries.
- Remarks with the city and state for each change of duty status.
Keep a stack of blank log pages in your bag. It's cheap insurance for unplanned rentals. Your hours of service limits don't change just because you're on paper. The 11 hour driving limit, 14 hour window and 60 or 70 hour limits all still apply.
Portable ELDs
Some carriers prefer to keep drivers on an ELD even in rentals. It means no switching between paper and electronic, and the back office keeps one record system. A portable ELD makes this simple. You plug the device into the rental truck's diagnostic port, connect the driver app and log as usual. When the rental ends, unplug it and move it back.
A portable setup is also the answer for rentals longer than 8 days, when the exemption doesn't apply. Things to check:
- Bring the right cable. Rental trucks may use a different connector than your own fleet. See our bring your own device ELD guide for app based options.
- Make sure the rental truck is added as a vehicle in your ELD account.
- Remove the device when you return the truck.
Some rental companies also offer ELDs in their trucks. Ask when you book.
Whatever you choose, tell your safety team before the driver leaves the rental lot so the paperwork is ready.
Other Exemptions
The rental exemption isn't the only one. Short haul drivers, drivers who use paper logs no more than 8 days in any 30 day period, drivers of trucks with pre 2000 engines and driveaway towaway operations can also be exempt. Our ELD exemptions guide covers each one, and our short haul exemption page explains the 150 air mile rule.
Rules checked October 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do rental trucks need an ELD?
Not if the property carrying truck is rented for 8 days or less. Drivers can use paper logs under the FMCSA rental exemption.
What documents do I need in a rental truck without an ELD?
Carry a copy of the exemption notice, the rental agreement showing the parties, vehicle and dates, and records of duty status for the current day and the prior 7 days if logs are required.
How long is the rental exemption valid?
FMCSA renewed it from October 12, 2022 to October 12, 2027.
What if I rent the truck for more than 8 days?
The exemption does not apply. Use an ELD, such as a portable device moved from your own truck.
Sources
All prices, terms and registration details were checked October 2026 on the pages below. Providers change pricing often, so confirm before you buy.