Sarah Bennett
If you are planning a trip to Puerto Rico, you may be wondering what the vaccination and travel requirements are. As of 2025, there is no requirement for proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter Puerto Rico. However, it is always recommended to consult the latest travel advisories and health guidelines before your trip, as rules may change. Additionally, infants aged 6 to 11 months old are advised to receive the Hepatitis A vaccination before travelling to Puerto Rico, according to CDC guidelines. As for travel documents, US citizens and permanent residents do not need a passport and can use a valid driver's license or state ID, while international travellers will need a passport and may need a visa, depending on their country of origin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vaccination Requirements | Infants aged 6 to 11 months old should have the Hepatitis A vaccination as recommended by the CDC guidelines. |
| Identification Requirements | U.S. citizens need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or state ID. A temporary driver's license is not considered a valid form of identification. |
| Passport Requirements | U.S. citizens and permanent residents do not need a passport to enter Puerto Rico. International travelers, including Canadians and Mexicans, need a valid passport. |
| Visa Requirements | Visas may be required for non-U.S. citizens, depending on the country of origin. |
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What You'll Learn
Infants should have the Hepatitis A vaccination
As of 2025, there are no vaccination requirements to fly to Puerto Rico. U.S. citizens can use a valid driver's license, state ID, or passport to board flights to Puerto Rico. International travelers must have a valid passport to enter.
However, the CDC recommends that infants aged 6 to 11 months old receive the Hepatitis A vaccination before travelling to Puerto Rico. Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. The vaccination is a crucial step in preventing the disease, along with practicing good hygiene.
For infants weighing 2,000 grams or more at birth, the CDC advises administering the Hepatitis B vaccine within 12 to 24 hours of birth. If the mother's HBsAg status is unknown, it is recommended to determine it as soon as possible. If the mother is HBsAg-positive, HBIG should be administered within the first week of life. Infants weighing less than 2,000 grams at birth should receive their first dose at one month of age or hospital discharge, whichever comes first.
It is always advised to consult with a pediatrician about this vaccine and any other health-related travel requirements. Additionally, it is important to be aware of other health risks in Puerto Rico, such as rabies, Zika, and food and water safety.
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Identification requirements for US citizens
As of May 7, 2025, US travelers must be REAL ID-compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. This means that state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. Other acceptable forms of ID include a U.S. passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and a U.S. Department of Defense ID. It is important to note that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States, although unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
When it comes to international travel, the requirements may vary depending on the destination country. While most countries do not require visitors to be fully vaccinated, they may require proof of a negative COVID test or a period of quarantine upon arrival. However, showing proof of vaccination can make it easier to get around and may be required for certain indoor events or to waive quarantine requirements. It is always recommended to check the specific requirements for your destination, as these can change frequently.
For US citizens flying internationally, a passport is typically required as a form of identification. However, when flying within the US or between Schengen Zone countries in Europe, an authorized form of photo ID, such as a driving license, can be used instead. It is worth noting that some countries may have additional requirements, such as specific visas or pet vaccination records, so it is important to be aware of the specific regulations for your destination.
In summary, while there is no universal requirement for US citizens to be vaccinated to fly, both domestic and international travel necessitates valid identification. For domestic flights within the US, a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will soon be mandatory. For international flights, a passport is typically required, although alternative forms of ID may be accepted for certain destinations. Staying up-to-date with the latest requirements and being prepared with the necessary identification will help ensure a smooth travel experience.
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Identification requirements for non-US citizens
As Puerto Rico is a US territory, non-US citizens will need a passport to enter, as for entering the US mainland. A visa may also be required, depending on the country of origin. All adult passengers flying to Puerto Rico must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, which will be checked at airport security. This includes a driver's license or identification card with a star in the top right corner. If a non-compliant ID is presented, additional screening may be required, and the traveller may be asked to provide additional information to verify their identity. From May 7, 2025, non-REAL ID-compliant IDs will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports.
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No proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test needed
Currently, airlines and states do not require visitors and returning residents to be fully vaccinated to waive any entry requirements. However, it is highly encouraged that travelers are fully vaccinated before traveling by any transportation method. While you don't need proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to board a plane to Puerto Rico, it is important to note that some destinations and businesses may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to waive mandatory quarantine or to gain entry. Therefore, it is recommended to check the specific requirements for your destination and any places you plan to visit.
The requirements for travel are constantly evolving, and local communities and states are responding to the increasing availability of vaccines and the rapid transmission of new variants, such as the Delta variant. As of June 2021, the prevailing trend is indoor mask mandates, regardless of vaccination status. Pre-travel diagnostic tests are the most common requirement for waiving mandatory quarantine for domestic and international travel. However, showing proof of vaccination can make it easier to get around and may be required by certain businesses or venues at your destination.
It is worth noting that some countries or territories, such as Hawaii and U.S. territories, may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to avoid a non-compliance fine. These requirements can vary depending on the specific location, so it is essential to stay informed about the latest guidelines for your intended destination. Additionally, some countries may have specific vaccine requirements, such as the yellow fever vaccine for certain destinations.
To summarize, while there is no universal requirement for proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to fly, it is highly recommended to get vaccinated before traveling. The specific requirements may vary depending on your destination, so it is important to stay informed and follow the guidelines provided by official sources, such as government websites or health organizations. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safer travel experience for yourself and others.
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Travel during hurricane season
Puerto Rico experiences hurricane season from June 1 to November 30, with June onwards being the time period most likely to see a hurricane. While hurricanes can be predicted days in advance, allowing you to plan your travels accordingly, the obvious con of travelling during this season is that you put yourself at risk if a hurricane does hit. The west and east sides of Puerto Rico are known to be the most likely to encounter hurricanes, so you may wish to plan to stay away from these areas.
If you do choose to travel during hurricane season, you can benefit from cheaper rates for flights and accommodation, and you won't have to deal with the long lines at various attractions during the busy season. However, there is a higher risk of travel disruptions such as cancelled flights and tours, and you may find yourself stuck inside on rainy days.
If you plan to travel to Puerto Rico during hurricane season, it is recommended that you pack strategically. You will likely experience a heavy supply of rainfall, but this usually occurs in bursts rather than lengthy durations. Rain generally falls in the afternoon, so if you want to avoid the showers, start your day early. Be sure to monitor weather conditions in other regions and locations of the island, as different parts of Puerto Rico may have sunnier skies.
Finally, it is important to note that, as of May 7, 2025, travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant ID at airport security checkpoints when flying to Puerto Rico. This includes a driver's license or identification card that has a star in the top right corner.
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Frequently asked questions
No, currently, no proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required for entry to Puerto Rico. However, rules may change based on health guidelines. Infants aged 6 to 11 months old are recommended to receive the Hepatitis A vaccination before travelling to Puerto Rico.
If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport to enter Puerto Rico. You will need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or state ID. From May 7, 2025, travellers must present a REAL ID-compliant ID, which will have a star in the top right corner. Children under 18 do not usually need identification when travelling with an adult, but it is worth checking with your airline.
Major airlines offer flights to Puerto Rico, with the main airport being Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan. Delta and American Airlines are both popular choices, with American Airlines serving all three Puerto Rican airports.
It is recommended to book your flight in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You should also arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow for check-in and security processes.
Puerto Rico experiences a hurricane season from June 1 to November 30, so it is worth bearing this in mind when booking your trip.
