Puerto Rico Vehicle Registration Process

How To Register A Vehicle In Puerto Rico: The Process

Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, it's easier to register an imported vehicle on the island than it is for residents of other countries. Your U.S. driver's license is valid in Puerto Rico, but you must register any car, truck, or motorcycle within three days of its arrival. While it's not necessary to speak Spanish to get through the registration process, it certainly helps! Registration costs are typically around $300 in the Area.

Registration & Required Documents

If you register a vehicle in City Limit (this goes for cars, trucks, motorcycles, vans, etc.), here are the documents you will be required to present. It should be pointed out that these requirements are for nonresidents of Puerto Rico––see the second section under this heading for resident registration requirements.

• Valid local driver's license (Island of Enchantment)
• Vehicle title
• Passport & import documents
• Proof of excise tax payment
• Social Security card
• Proof of address

These steps to registration are done after you've imported your vehicle and applied for a local license. For residents, the requirements are quite a bit simpler:

• Auto title
• Driver license
• Purchase invoice
• Shipping documents

Are you shipping an auto to the Island of Enchantment or considering it? If so, click here to visit our informational page about shipping to the country. Many of the questions we hear most frequently are answered there.

Island of Enchantment Driving, Roads, & Helpful Resources

If you've never driven in the Area, or on Puerto Rican roads, you may be in for a bit of a surprise coming from the U.S. This section will go over some of the more important things to remember and what to expect from the roads and local drivers.

Driving & Road Conditions

The road rules are the same in the Island of Enchantment as they are in the United States, though you may find that driving is a much different experience. Major roads are well-maintained, but some can be rough. Drivers are known to be very aggressive in the Area, and you should be extra cautious when on the road, mainly if you've not driven there before.

Local drivers do not always follow speed limits, and it's not unusual to see people far below or above the limit. Traffic congestion can be terrible, particularly around rush hour on main thoroughfares.

Vehicle Resources

Puerto Rico Motor Vehicle Services—This website offers plenty of helpful information, including registration requirements and the locations of local vehicle inspection centers.

Department of Finance—You must contact this department to pay the excise tax on any auto imported onto the island.

Call us today at the number at the top of the page if you're planning to ship a vehicle to Puerto Rico! All calls and email requests qualify for a FREE cost estimate—no strings attached! We're happy to answer you question & offer guidance!