Driver’s License for Non-Citizens in Puerto Rico

1. What are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Puerto Rico?


In order to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Puerto Rico, you must be at least 16 years old and must pass a written exam. You must also have a valid ID and submit a health certificate. Additionally, you may be required to provide a school certificate or proof of completion of a driver’s education course. Finally, you must pay the applicable fee.

2. Can non-U.S. citizens obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) requires that applicants for a driver’s license must have a valid passport, visa, and immigration documents as proof of legal residence in Puerto Rico.

3. What documents are needed to apply for a provisional driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


In order to apply for a provisional driver’s license in Puerto Rico, applicants must present the following documents: a valid birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, proof of legal presence in Puerto Rico, the applicable fee, a signed parental consent form (if under 18), and a written test and vision exam certificate. Applicants must also complete a driver’s education course if they are under 18.

4. Is a Social Security Number required to obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


No, a Social Security Number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico. Drivers can obtain licenses with an alternative form of identification, such as a passport or birth certificate.

5. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


The minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Puerto Rico is 16 years old.

6. Are there any restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in Puerto Rico?


Yes, non-citizens must obtain a commercial driver’s license from the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works. Non-citizens are required to present valid immigration documents from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and a valid Social Security number.

7. What are the restrictions for non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


Non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in Puerto Rico must be at least 16 years of age and can only drive in the country for up to 90 days. After the 90-day period, they must apply for a Puerto Rico driver’s license. Furthermore, in order to drive in Puerto Rico, a valid foreign driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) must be presented.

8. What type of proof of identity is needed to get a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


In order to get a driver’s license in Puerto Rico, applicants must present two forms of valid identification, such as a certified copy of a birth certificate, Social Security card, passport, or military ID. The applicant must also provide proof of Puerto Rican residency, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.

9. How long do non-citizens need to be residents of Puerto Rico before being able to apply for a driver’s license?


Non-citizens must be residents of Puerto Rico for at least 30 days before being able to apply for a driver’s license.

10. Are there any additional requirements for non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


Yes. In order to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Puerto Rico, non-citizens must provide proof of legal presence in the United States, such as a valid I-94 card or green card. They must also provide proof of identity, such as a valid passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued photo identification. Additionally, non-citizens must present a valid certificate of Puerto Rican residency.

11. Which type of tests are required to be taken by non-citizens to obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


Non-citizens must take the same written and driving tests as citizens in order to obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico.

12. Do non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of residency in order to obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico. This can include documents such as a passport, visa, or other documents that prove the individual has a legal presence in Puerto Rico.

13. Is there an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


Yes, non-citizen applicants for a driver’s license in Puerto Rico must pay an additional fee of $30.

14. Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in Puerto Rico?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP) oversees the process. To convert a foreign driver’s license, individuals must provide valid proof of identity, residency, and current foreign driver’s license. They must also pass all applicable written and road tests (unless exempt), and pay a fee.

15. What do non-citizens need to bring with them to the DMV when applying for a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


In order to apply for a driver’s license in Puerto Rico, non-citizens must present a valid passport, a valid visa, and a valid employment authorization card. Additionally, they must provide proof of residency in Puerto Rico, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, as well as proof of identity, such as an original birth certificate.

16. How much does it cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


As of 2021, it costs $6.00 to obtain an original or renewal driver’s license in Puerto Rico for non-citizens.

17. Are there any special laws that apply to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in Puerto Rico?


Yes, drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in Puerto Rico must adhere to the same laws as drivers with Puerto Rico-issued licenses. This includes obeying traffic signals and laws, yielding to pedestrians, and using designated designated parking areas. Additionally, drivers must carry proof of liability insurance coverage while operating a vehicle. Failure to comply with these laws can result in stiff fines and even jail time.

18. Can non-citizens obtain an international driving permit while residing in Puerto Rico?


No, only citizens of the United States are eligible for an international driving permit while residing in Puerto Rico.

19. Does Puerto Rico recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes?


Yes. Puerto Rico recognizes foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes.

20. Are there any special requirements for renewing a non-citizen’s driver’s license in Puerto Rico?


Yes, non-citizens in Puerto Rico must provide proof of legal presence when renewing their driver’s license. Acceptable documents for proof of legal presence include a valid permanent resident card, valid passport, valid visa, or valid employment authorization card.