Puerto Rico (or known as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico) is a self-governing Caribbean island that is part of the United States as an unincorporated territory. Situated between the Dominican Republic and both the US and British Virgin Islands, it is known for its tropical climate, along with lush rainforests, mountain interior and extensive coastline with sandy beaches. The territory has a rich cultural heritage shaped by Indigenous Taíno roots, Spanish colonization, African influences and its modern connection to the United States. Its economy is mainly driven by manufacturing, followed by agriculture, services and tourism.
Its capital, San Juan, is located on the northern coast, and is one of the oldest cities in the Americas — founded in 1521. The city is well-known for its historic district, Old San Juan, alongside colourful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved Spanish forts such as El Morro and San Cristóbal. Today, San Juan serves as the political, economic, and cultural centre of Puerto Rico, blending historic charm with modern urban life.
Hurricanes, which bring extreme winds, flooding and landslides, alongside a high risk of earthquakes, potential tsunamis, and recurring droughts.
Rental cars may face a processing fee from the rental company with a fine from a parking ticket violation.
For other offences;
The official languages of Puerto Rico are Spanish and English.
Vehicles in Puerto Rico drive on the right side of the road. The right-of-way rules follow typical US/Caribbean norms; yield appropriately at intersections, traffic circles, and stop signs. Also, turning on red lights is usually allowed after a full stop unless signed otherwise.
The minimum age to drive is 18, but the age to rent is 21, though some rental companies have higher age requirements (often 25) for certain vehicle types, and/or would apply surcharges to drivers under 25. UK drivers don't usually need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as long as they have a valid photocard licence in English. But it is recommended to get a 1968 IDP for officials who don't recognise a UK licence, and for rental companies that require an IDP.
Major highways and urban roads in Puerto Rico are generally paved and well-maintained, but potholes and narrow rural roads are common. Road signs are universal, but in Spanish, and traffic in San Juan and around major towns can be congested, especially 6 – 9am and 4 – 7pm. City street parking often has coloured curbs to indicate restrictions — white is usually allowed, blue is for disabled parking, red is fire zone. Old San Juan has limited parking, so use public garages to avoid fines.
Regular Unleaded (87 octane) is the most commonly used fuel, and is widely available across the country. Premium (91 - 93 octane) and Ultra-low Sulphur diesel are also available at many stations. In cities like San Juan, use apps or signage to find stations that have diesel. Stations are commonly full-service, but if no attendant comes to your window, you may be in a self-service station. Cards are widely accepted in brand-name stations and urban areas, but in more rural or smaller locations, payment is usually made inside the convenience store first rather than the dispenser since cards may not be accepted. Also, carrying a bit of cash ($20 – $40) can be handy, especially early in the morning or late at night at smaller pumps.
Fuel stations are everywhere in cities and along major highways, even outside San Juan and other big towns. And many of them are open 24/7. However, stations are less frequent in rural or mountainous regions, so fill up before you go off the main highways, and refuel whenever the opportunity comes. It's handy to keep your fuel receipts when checking fuel charges with your rental company upon returning.
The BAC limit is 0.08% for drivers 21 or older, 0.02% for 18 - 20 year olds and commercial/heavy vehicle drivers, and 0.00% (zero-tolerance) for under 18s.
Must always be worn for all occupants.
Children under 4 must use an approved car seat, while kids aged 4 - 8 (or under ~145cm tall) need a booster seat, and under 12s should ride in the back seat if available.
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