Are passports required to travel for US citizens traveling from the US mainland to Puerto Rico?

by Mari
(Savannah Ga USA)

Question: We are a party of 23 adults and children traveling to San Juan on 1/15/10 for a family vacation. Some of us have passports but not all. We were told by our travel agent that because Puerto Rico is a US territory passports were not needed.

Answer: You travel agent is correct. The passport requirement does NOT apply to U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from a U.S. territory. Your group can travel to Puerto Rico and return to the U.S. without going through immigration or customs.

While a passport is not required, all United States citizens should carry with them some form of official identification to enter Puerto Rico such as a current driver's license or a photo-ID card issued to non-drivers by a state's motor vehicles department.

Click here to post comments.

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Passport FAQ - Questions and Answers About Passports.

Latest Passport & Travel Updates

Passport Requirements
List and description of documents required for citizens of the United States to obtain passports.

Passport Book vs. Passport Card
Learn the similarities and differences between the traditional passport book and the newer passport card.

Rush Passport Expediting
Requirements, fees and processing times for getting rush passport expediting.

Multiple Entry Visa Information
What is a multiple entry visa and how do you apply for one. Get the general requirements for obtainings visas with multiple entries.

A Day in the Life of a Tourist in San Juan
You wake up at your resort and look at the stunning view of Condado Beach. Even though it's early, children are already playing in the sand. The waves ...

Playa del Carmen, Mexico - The Perfect Tropical Paradise for Your Vacation
Discover why Playa del Carmen is such a popular vacation spot for any season of the year. Find out what to do and see as well as where to stay in this lush tropical paradise of MexicoÂ´s Mayan Riviera.

Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea Israel
Ein Bokek - A fabulous oasis in the desert and a magnet for health seekers and tourists alike. Ein Bokek is located on the southwestern shore of the ...