Driving in Puerto Rico can be a great way to experience the island at your own pace. However, if you are unfamiliar with driving in Puerto Rico, or if you are simply looking for a more convenient way to get your car to the island, you may want to consider shipping your car to Puerto Rico. If you are ready to ship your car to Puerto Rico, get a free quote from a leading car shipping company in the industry. We offer a wide range of car shipping services to Puerto Rico, including door-to-door shipping, expedited shipping, and covered car shipping. We are committed to providing our customers with the best possible car shipping experience, and we are here to help you every step of the way.
This article covers the basics of driving in Puerto Rico, including the dos and don’ts.
Key Highlights
- Tourists can drive in Puerto Rico using their valid US driver’s license.
- Be aware of aggressive driving, unfamiliar road rules (left lane for slow traffic), and potential challenges finding parking, especially in metro areas.
- Gas prices in Puerto Rico are typically higher than most US states.
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Things You Need to Know About Driving in Puerto Rico
Most of the time, driving in Puerto Rico can be confusing and challenging. Taking precautions and driving defensively can help you avoid any accidents.
Here are a few things you need to know about driving in Puerto Rico:
- Licensing requirements: Since Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, Americans can use their driver’s license there. A valid license and an International Driving Permit are required for international visitors.
- Left lanes are actually for slower traffic: In Puerto Rico, the left lane is the fast lane. Heavy vehicles or drivers not exceeding the speed limit are supposed to use the right lane. When merging onto a highway, keep this in mind because it can be challenging.
- Potholes in abundance: Although Puerto Rico’s roads are generally wide and paved, they have their fair share of potholes, just like New York. However, these potholes never seem to get repaired because of heavy, seasonal rains.
- Highly aggressive driving: Most of the time, Puerto Rican drivers drive aggressively. This shouldn’t be a problem if you remain calm and drive safely.
- Drive without using your phone: While driving in Puerto Rico, it is illegal to talk or text on a cell phone.
- Speed limit: Car speeds are measured in miles per hour, not kilometers. Generally, the speed limit in Puerto Rico is 25 mph in urban areas, 15 mph in school zones, 45 mph in rural areas, and 65 mph on highways.
- Lights will always be on in police cars: Police cars always have their lights on, but it doesn’t mean they’re stopping you.
- Turning across multiple traffic lanes: This sounds awful, but people driving in the right-most lane of three lanes often turn left without signaling or even getting over one lane at a time. To avoid accidents with these drivers, maintain a safe driving distance from the driver in front of you.
- Signaling will seem like it’s optional: You may encounter unexpected turns while driving in Puerto Rico because drivers rarely use their turn signals.
- Beware of animals: Puerto Rico has an abundance of animals that may cross the road, such as dogs, cows, donkeys, and horses. It is easier to avoid hitting one of these animals if you drive slowly and cautiously.
- Driving in the rain: Puerto Rico often experiences rainy weather. Drive slowly if it’s raining and use intermittent lights when visibility is poor. Streets and neighborhoods can flood if it rains too much in a short time. Always avoid crossing flooded areas.
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Toll Roads
Puerto Rico has several toll roads, especially around San Juan. These roads are well-maintained and can save you time on your journey. You can pay tolls electronically using a prepaid toll pass or with cash. Make sure you have enough small bills on hand if you plan to use cash.
Parking
Finding parking, especially street parking, can be difficult in metro areas like San Juan. Consider using parking garages or lots, which are more plentiful but may have fees. If you’re staying in a tourist area, your hotel may offer valet parking or have a designated parking lot for guests. You can also explore alternative transportation options like taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation depending on your itinerary.
Rental Cars
Renting a car is a popular option for tourists in Puerto Rico. Most major car rental companies have offices at the airport and in major tourist areas. Be sure to have all the necessary documentation, such as your driver’s license and credit card. When choosing a car rental, consider the size and type of vehicle you’ll need. A smaller car may be easier to maneuver on narrow roads, while an SUV might be a better choice if you plan on doing any off-roading.
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Gas Prices in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico usually has high gasoline prices. From 1998 until 2023, gasoline prices in Puerto Rico averaged 1.03 US dollars per liter. They reached an all-time high of 1.21 US dollars per liter in June of 2022 and a record low of 0.34 US dollars per liter in December of 1998.
Gas prices in Puerto Rico have averaged $2.77 per gallon since 1998.
The rate is fairly high compared to most US states. Since gas has to be transported to Puerto Rico, the supply is more expensive. There is also a lack of public transportation in Puerto Rico. Therefore, more people per capita need to fill up their cars. Due to the higher demand, the price is higher.
How you can use less fuel in Puerto Rico?
- Make use of the A/C sparingly: The weather can be hot and humid in Puerto Rico, so park your car in the shade or use a sun reflector to keep it cool. Using less air conditioning will save you money.
- Use the Proper Grade of Motor Oil: Your Owner Guides will tell you what grade of motor oil is recommended. Your recommended grade will vary depending on your driving conditions.
- Ensure your tires are in good condition: The underinflated tires are less safe, wear out more quickly, and waste fuel, causing drivers to lose 2 million gallons of fuel every day. Your tires can actually improve your gas mileage by around 3% if they are inflated properly. Your engine will have to work harder if they are not inflated correctly.
- Keeping your Engine Tuned: The average gas mileage can be improved by 4% by fixing a car that has a noticeable out-of-tune engine or failed an emissions test.
- Make your Car Lighter: Don’t keep things in your trunk or a back seat that don’t belong there. Keep them in a storage place.
- Other Regular Maintenance: You can optimize your fuel economy by aligning your wheels, inspecting your shocks and struts, and replacing worn fuel filters or spark plugs. All these vehicle maintenance operations can improve your mileage by up to 25%.
- On highways, keep your windows closed: When you drive faster, having your windows open will decrease aerodynamics, which will make your car’s engine work harder. Therefore, driving on highways with your windows closed will save you gas.
- Reduce your Trips: Combining your trips is a smart idea. Make one trip rather than taking your car out three times if you need to go to three different stores.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, while driving in Puerto Rico can be a great way to explore the island at your own pace, it’s important to be aware of the challenges and potential costs involved. From unfamiliar road rules and aggressive driving to navigating tolls and parking, a little preparation can go a long way. Knowing how to save gas can also be helpful, considering the typically higher gas prices on the island. By following the tips in this guide and approaching your driving experience with caution and awareness, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable exploration of Puerto Rico.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is driving in Puerto Rico difficult?
Like most familiar places, Puerto Rico is an easy place to drive. The U.S. territory has good street conditions and the sign system is similar to most countries. Even though some Puerto Rican drivers drive recklessly, tourists should be safe if they take normal precautions and keep their eyes on the road.
Is it possible to drive in Puerto Rico with a U.S. license?
Puerto Rico does not require additional permits for visitors from the United States to drive a car.
Why is gas so cheap in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico sells gas by the liter, not the gallon, so there are roughly 3.79 liters in a gallon. Thus, Puerto Rico’s average gas price per gallon since 1998 has been $2.77. This is higher than most states in the US.
Is it safe to drive in Puerto Rico?
Overall, driving in Puerto Rico can be safe if you are aware of the potential hazards and take precautions. Here are some safety tips:
- Drive defensively: Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
- Follow the speed limits: Speeding is a major risk factor for accidents.
- Don’t drink and drive: This is illegal and extremely dangerous everywhere.
- Use caution at night: Visibility can be reduced at night, so drive slowly and be extra alert.
- Watch out for animals: Animals like dogs, cows, and horses can sometimes wander onto the road.
- Be aware of the weather: Heavy rain can cause flash floods and slippery roads.
By following these tips and being prepared for the different driving conditions in Puerto Rico, you can minimize risks and have a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
I have recently bought my own car and have never experienced driving on my own. This guide helped me a lot to understand the driving experience in Puerto Rico. Nice work done!