The Caribbean - SJU: Passport?

I'm going to PR for the first time and it's my understanding that U.S. citizens do not need a passport for this trip. However, I am hearing mixed things that it is sometimes needed for the return flight. Is this true? Any FTers out there have recent experience with ID/documentation and mainland USA - Puerto Rico travel? I don't want to have to carry an extra vital document if not needed, but I also want to be on the safe side.

Thanks in advance!

I'm going to PR for the first time and it's my understanding that U.S. citizens do not need a passport for this trip. However, I am hearing mixed things that it is sometimes needed for the return flight. Is this true? Any FTers out there have recent experience with ID/documentation and mainland USA - Puerto Rico travel? I don't want to have to carry an extra vital document if not needed, but I also want to be on the safe side.

Thanks in advance!

You shouldn't need it b/c PR is a US Territory. The general assumption you should work with is that if you need a passport to get there, you'll need one to get back.

I am going to more this thread to a more appropriate forum to help get a more definative answer.

Passport is NOT required.

At times customs will do a citizenship check on the jetway when you depart, but a verbal declaration should be enough for them.

Thanks for the advice.

Here's what concerns me...on JetBlue's website:

check-in requirements for travel to/from Puerto Rico

U.S. citizens are not required to have passports to enter Puerto Rico; however, proof of residency or citizenship is recommended for your return.

Proof of citizenship is:

A valid or expired U.S. passport (canceled passports are not acceptable)
Original U.S. birth certificate, and a government issued photo ID
U.S. citizenship papers
U.S. naturalization papers

I am a regular on the B6 hops to MCO/FLL... you won't need it.

I just did EWR-SJU on CO in March. No passport required for US citizens. All you need is a valid driver's license issued in the US>

Most of the time SJU shows up as an international itinerary for the carriers, so on their website and usually ticket classes reflect that and you get the passport requirements. You only need your passport if you are going to be leaving SJU for another island or other interantional destination that is not US.

So, no worries, have a great trip and enjoy PR. Where are you staying?

Thank you. I returned the other night - stayed at the El San Juan (got a sweet deal from AA Vacations at about $152/night A/I plus $100 debit card to use there. Beautiful island and great people!

Thanks for the advice.

Here's what concerns me...on JetBlue's website:

check-in requirements for travel to/from Puerto Rico

U.S. citizens are not required to have passports to enter Puerto Rico; however, proof of residency or citizenship is recommended for your return.

Proof of citizenship is:

A valid or expired U.S. passport (canceled passports are not acceptable)
Original U.S. birth certificate, and a government issued photo ID
U.S. citizenship papers
U.S. naturalization papers
This may be due to the fact that CBP officers frequently man positions within the airport from which they are able to observe all entering passengers preparing to board flights. If something leads them to suspect that you are in the U.S. illegally, they may pull you aside for questioning. Having proof of residency would expedite this process.

CBP does the same thing at the El Paso, Texas airport.