How to Call Puerto Rico
Complete guide to dialing Puerto Rico (country code +1-787 / +1-939)
Calling Puerto Rico is simpler than you might think, but knowing the proper dialing procedures can save you time and frustration. Whether you're contacting family, friends, or business associates, understanding how to call Puerto Rico correctly ensures your connection goes through smoothly. Many people make common mistakes when dialing, especially regarding area codes and international prefixes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Puerto Rico from various locations. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, highlight frequent errors to avoid, share essential phone etiquette tips for communicating with locals, and provide a list of useful numbers for emergencies and services. By the end, you'll be confident in making calls to this beautiful Caribbean destination without any hassle.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
Complete Guide to Dialing Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico uses two area codes: +1-787 and +1-939. As a U.S. territory, it follows the North American Numbering Plan, making calls straightforward from most locations.
International Dialing Format Structure
The standard format for Puerto Rican numbers is:
+1 + Area Code (787 or 939) + Seven-Digit Local Number
Example: +1-787-XXX-XXXX or +1-939-XXX-XXXX
Dialing from the United States
Since Puerto Rico shares the +1 country code with the U.S., calling is simple:
Step 1: Dial 1 (the country code)
Step 2: Dial the area code (787 or 939)
Step 3: Dial the seven-digit local number
Example 1 - Landline: To call +1-787-123-4567, dial: 1-787-123-4567
Example 2 - Mobile: To call +1-939-555-6789, dial: 1-939-555-6789
Dialing from the United Kingdom
Step 1: Dial 00 (UK's international exit code)
Step 2: Dial 1 (Puerto Rico's country code)
Step 3: Dial the area code and local number
Example 3 - Landline: To call +1-787-123-4567 from UK, dial: 00-1-787-123-4567
Dialing from Other Countries
Step 1: Dial your country's international exit code (commonly 00 or 011)
Step 2: Dial 1-787 or 1-939
Step 3: Dial the seven-digit local number
Example from Australia: Using exit code 0011, dial: 0011-1-787-123-4567
Important Notes About Leading Zeros
Puerto Rican numbers do not use leading zeros in their local format. All numbers begin directly with the area code (787 or 939) after the country code +1. There is no zero to drop when dialing internationally.
Mobile vs. Landline: Both mobile and landline numbers in Puerto Rico follow identical dialing procedures—there's no distinction in format between them.
When saving contacts, always use the international format +1-787-XXX-XXXX or +1-939-XXX-XXXX for seamless dialing
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Common Mistakes
When calling Puerto Rico, avoid these common dialing errors:
1. Treating it as an international call
Many people assume they need to dial "011" (the U.S. exit code) before calling Puerto Rico. This is wrong because Puerto Rico uses the North American Numbering Plan. From the U.S. or Canada, simply dial 1 + area code (787 or 939) + seven-digit number, just like calling any domestic number.
2. Confusing the area codes with country codes
787 and 939 are area codes, not country codes. Puerto Rico's country code is +1 (shared with the U.S. and Canada). Always dial "1" first, then the area code.
3. Adding extra digits
Some callers mistakenly include additional numbers or prefix codes. Puerto Rican phone numbers follow the standard 10-digit format: area code + seven digits. Nothing more is needed.
4. Forgetting the "1" prefix from mobile phones
When calling from U.S. mobile phones, you must include the "1" before the area code, even though it's technically a domestic call.
5. Using international dialing from within Puerto Rico
When calling Puerto Rico from within the island, just dial the 10-digit number without any prefix.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Puerto Rico, understanding local customs helps create positive connections. Puerto Ricans value warm, personal interactions, which extends to telephone communication.
Greetings and Tone
Always begin calls with a friendly "Buenos dĂas" (morning), "Buenas tardes" (afternoon), or "Buenas noches" (evening). Even in business contexts, Puerto Ricans appreciate a conversational, friendly tone rather than strictly formal approaches. However, use "usted" (formal "you") with elders and in initial business contacts until invited to be more casual.
Business vs. Personal Calls
Business calls typically happen between 9 AM and 5 PM on weekdays. Personal calls are welcome later in the evening, though avoid calling after 9 PM unless expected. Sunday mornings are generally reserved for family time.
Building Rapport
Don't rush immediately into your purpose. Brief small talk about family or well-being is customary and appreciated. This relationship-building isn't wasted time—it's an important cultural practice that establishes trust.
Voice Messages
Leaving clear, polite voice messages is standard practice. State your name, number, and reason for calling. Many Puerto Ricans prefer speaking directly rather than texting, so don't hesitate to call instead of sending multiple messages.
Cultural Considerations
Expect conversations to be warmer and potentially longer than mainland U.S. calls. Interrupting isn't necessarily rude—it often shows engagement. Patience and warmth will always serve you well in Puerto Rican phone communication.
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Emergency Numbers
911 - Universal emergency number for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Available 24/7 with English and Spanish-speaking operators.
787-343-2020 - Puerto Rico Police Department non-emergency line
787-721-2160 - Puerto Rico Fire Department (San Juan headquarters)
787-754-2550 - Emergency Management Agency for disaster-related situations
1-800-981-0023 - Domestic violence hotline (24/7, bilingual)
988 - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7, bilingual support)
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from mobile phones, landlines, and payphones throughout Puerto Rico. The 911 system functions identically to the U.S. mainland, with trained dispatchers coordinating appropriate emergency response. Cell phone coverage is generally reliable in urban areas, though service may be limited in mountainous regions. Keep your phone charged and save these numbers for quick access during emergencies.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 411: Local directory assistance for phone numbers and addresses
- 1-809-724-7777: Puerto Rico Tourism Company hotline for travel information and assistance
International Services
- 00: International operator for overseas calls and collect calls
- 1-800-874-4000: AT&T international operator
Embassy & Consular Services
- 1-787-521-2000: U.S. Consulate in San Juan (citizen services)
- 1-787-766-5400: British Honorary Consulate
- 1-787-754-6090: Canadian Consulate
Utility & Public Services
- 311: Non-emergency municipal services and city information
- 1-787-521-3590: LUMA Energy (electric utility)
- 1-787-620-2482: Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority
Transportation
- 1-787-253-0717: Luis Muñoz MarĂn International Airport information
- 1-787-729-8714: Tren Urbano (metro system)
Tips for Calling Puerto Rico
When calling Puerto Rico, remember it operates on Atlantic Standard Time (UTC-4) year-round with no daylight saving changes. If you're on the U.S. East Coast, Puerto Rico is one hour ahead during EDT and the same time during EST.
For business calls, schedule between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM AST, Monday through Friday. Always arrange important business calls in advance, as island professionals appreciate proper scheduling. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:00-1:00 PM) when many offices close briefly.
Peak calling rates typically apply during weekday business hours, while evenings and weekends offer lower rates if cost is a concern. Plan around major U.S. and Puerto Rican holidays, including Three Kings Day (January 6), Constitution Day (July 25), and Discovery Day (November 19).
For clearer communication, speak slowly and confirm important details via email afterward. Cell service can be spotty in mountainous regions, so don't be surprised if calls drop. When possible, use WhatsApp or similar apps for more reliable connections. Test your connection quality before important business discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Puerto Rico uses the country code +1, followed by area codes 787 or 939. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico is part of the North American Numbering Plan, so calls from the U.S. mainland are treated as domestic calls using the same +1 prefix.
To call Puerto Rico from your cell phone, dial +1 (or 1 from the U.S.), then the area code (787 or 939), followed by the 7-digit local number. The complete format is: +1-787-XXX-XXXX or +1-939-XXX-XXXX.
No, there is no leading zero to drop when calling Puerto Rico. Puerto Rican phone numbers follow the U.S. format with a 3-digit area code (787 or 939) and a 7-digit local number, with no leading zeros in the dialing sequence.
The cheapest way to call Puerto Rico is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Puerto Rico.
In Puerto Rico, dial 911 for all emergencies including police, fire, and medical assistance. This is the same emergency number used throughout the United States. The service is available 24/7 and operators can assist in both English and Spanish.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Puerto Rico directly from your web browser without downloading any software. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, enter the Puerto Rican number, and start calling instantly with clear, reliable connections.
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