What is FAR 52.217-3?

FAR 52.217-3 (Evaluation Exclusive of Options.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the options category.

When is FAR 52.217-3 required?

FAR 52.217-3 is typically required when the contracting officer determines it's applicable to the specific procurement. Check the solicitation's Section I for included clauses.

Does FAR 52.217-3 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.217-3 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

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52.217-3 — Evaluation Exclusive of Options.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.217-3 — Evaluation Exclusive of Options.. This clause is part of the Federal Acquisition Regulation and may be included in government contracts as a solicitation provision or contract clause.

Official Regulation Text

52.217-3 Evaluation Exclusive of Options. As prescribed in 17.208(a), insert a provision substantially the same as the following in solicitations when the solicitation includes an option clause and does not include one of the provisions prescribed in 17.208 (b) or (c): Evaluation Exclusive of Options (APR 1984) The Government will evaluate offers for award purposes by including only the price for the basic requirement; i.e., options will not be included in the evaluation for award purposes. (End of provision) [48 FR 42478, Sept. 19, 1983, as amended at 87 FR 49503, Aug. 10, 2022]
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.217-3 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.217-3)

Compliance Checklist

Flow-Down to Subcontractors

No flow-down required

This clause applies only to the prime contract and does not need to be flowed down to subcontractors.

Frequently Asked Questions

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This summary is for informational purposes only and reflects the BidStride Research Team's plain-English interpretation of the regulation. It is not legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Always consult the official Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.