AboutNancy Torres Expertise I can answer questions about places to stay in Puerto Rico. As I live and work here, I can also help people with their questions on what to do, where to go, local transportation, government offices, working/studying/vacationing in the island. I speak and write Spanish and English.
Experience I currently live in Old San Juan and enjoy museums, hotels, social and cultural events, restaurants and sightseing.
Education/Credentials BBA University of Puerto Rico, Minor in English
Awards and Honors Magna Cum Laude, University of Puerto Rico
Expert: Nancy Torres Date: 6/25/2008 Subject: Documents for minors ?
Question Hi Nancy!
My name is Felicia, I'm 17, and in about a week and a half, I'm going with my abuelita and sister to visit fam. in Puerto Rico. When I would go to Puerto Rico in the past,I did not need to provide a photo ID or a birth certificate. Being a minor (17 years old), do I need to have photo ID to enter the island? I do not have a photo ID, and my birth certificate is not valid because it does not have my first name on it. For the past three months I have been in the process of correcting my birth certificate, but it won't be mailed to me for at least another three weeks. I would try and get a state photo ID, but to receive one, you need to provide a valid birth certificate as proof. Being as I am leaving in about a week and a half, I need to know what documents a minor needs to travel to Puerto Rico. In the past I did not give a photo ID, but my abuelita is worried that I need one now. Please help! Thank You! =)
Answer Hola, Felicia.
I am assuming that you, as well as your grandmother and sister, are all US citizens.
You are 17, so you are considered a young adult, as are the passengers that are 15 through 17 years of age.
Because Puerto Rico is a Commonwealth, U.S. citizens coming from mainland destinations do not need any documents to enter Puerto Rico. It is the same as crossing from one state to another. There is no need to carry proof of citizenship or to produce documents. However, because of new airport security measures, it is necessary to produce a government-issued photo ID (federal, state, or local) to board a plane; this is most often a driver's license. It may be required to present proof of age (such as a birth certificate) at the airport for any children under the age of 18 who are traveling with an adult.
In your specific case, I would suggest that you bring your birth certificate with you, no matter if it does not have your first name on it. You could also bring with you your school ID.
Although I don't think you would have any inconvenience, my suggestion to you is that you double check with your travel agent, airline or directly with our State Department, in case they could have any other suggestions for you:
Puerto Rico State Department
Box 9023271,
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902-3271
Tel. (787) 723-6805
Fax (787) 723-7425
Enjoy your time in the Island.
Saludos desde Puerto Rico, :)
Nancy
