Puerto Rico - Transportation

Ground Transportation 

Driving

Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. All the same rules as any part of the United States, except that the signs are in Spanish, the distance markers in kilometers and the gas sold in liters. During the first 120 days since arrival, a non-resident may operate motor vehicles in Puerto Rico if that person possesses a valid, unexpired license issued by any state of the U.S.A. or by any foreign country that imposes requirements similar to Puerto Ricos to grant a driver's license. For longer stays, any person may obtain a Puerto Rico driver's license simply by requesting one and paying the corresponding fees. The license issued by the state or foreign country will not be withheld. A person must be at least eighteen years old to qualify for a driver’s license. A person between sixteen and eighteen years old may be issued a license to drive with a legal guardian authorization. 

Public Transportation

The Metropolitan Bus Authority (or AMA, its Spanish acronym) operates in the San Juan Metropolitan area. Stops are marked by magenta, orange and white signs which read Parada. or the new Metrobus system .There are also mini-buses ("carros públicos" or "guaguas"), usually carrying 10 to 14 people. Públicos are a good way of getting around, but be prepare to wait for the car to fill up, which may take from 10 minutes to few hours;

Taxis

The Tourism Taxi Program, recently instituted by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, has simplified the fare structure between the airport and several major tourism zones in the San Juan area. 

Car Rental

Agencies are located around the island. Includes: AAA, Afro, Avis, Budget, Charlie, Discount, Hertz, L & M, Leaseway, National, Popular Leasing, Target, Thrifty, and Vias. Rates might be a little higher than U.S. 

Automobiles

All vehicles available in Puerto Rico are imported, mainly from the U.S. Due to transportation costs and import taxes, prices may be higher than in the U.S. Taxes apply to both new and used vehicles. For rates and further information on automobile transportation contact Puerto Rico's main maritime shipping agency; "Navieras de Puerto Rico", For information on estimated tax liability contact the Puerto Rico Treasury Department ("Departamento de Hacienda, Negociado de Arbitrios Generales"),

Railroads

96 km rural narrow-gauge system for hauling sugar cane; no passenger railroads.