travel agency registration certificate

Travel Agency Registrations By State

Did you know that some states require you to register as a travel agent even if you don’t reside in that particular state? It’s true! States like Florida, California, Washington, Iowa, and Hawaii all require that you register your travel agency. If not, these states can issue a cease and desist letter, impose fines and fees, or worse. Keep reading to learn more about travel agent licensing by state.

Apply for your Travel Agency Registration today!

California defines a seller of travel as any person or entity that sells, provides, furnishes, contracts for, arranges, or advertises that it can or may arrange, wholesale or retail travel.

Does this sound like your business? If so, visit our California Seller of Travel License page to learn more about the state requirements.

Florida defines a travel agency as any resident or nonresident person, firm, corporation, or business entity that offers, directly or indirectly, prearranged travel or tourist-related services for individuals or groups, through vacation certificates in exchange for a fee, commission, or other valuable consideration. Further, the FLDACS indicates that any seller of travel that has a business location in Florida OR that offers to sell travel related services in Florida for individuals or groups is required to register with the state.

Are you selling travel in or to Florida? If so, learn more about the Florida travel agency licensing process .

Hawaii defines a travel agency as any sole proprietorship, organization, trust, group, association, partnership, corporation, society, or combination of such, which for compensation or other consideration, acts or attempts to act as an intermediary between a person seeking to purchase travel services and any person seeking to sell travel services.

Do you want to sell travel in Hawaii? Getting licensed in HI can be very difficult unless you live there. It requires a bank account at a local bank. Sounds easy right? Well, most of the banks on the islands won’t let you open a business account online. You must physically go to the bank, in person, to open the bank account. However, it makes a great excuse to go on a Hawaiian vacation doesn’t it? If you think so too you can apply online today !

Not only is it home to the Hawkeyes and Wartburg College but it’s also home to Iowa Code Chapter 9D. Iowa code requires travel agencies to register with the Iowa Secretary of State if the agency conducts the solicitation of an Iowa resident. Iowa defines a travel agency as a person who represents, directly or indirectly, that the person is offering or undertaking by any means or method, to provide travel services for a fee, commission, or other valuable considerations, direct or indirect.

Want to learn more about becoming a licensed, Iowa travel agent? If so, visit our Iowa Travel Agency Licensing page to learn more.

Washington defines a seller of travel as a person, firm, or corporation that transacts business with Washington consumers for travel arrangements or accommodations.

Have you sold or are you currently selling travel to a Washington State resident? Again, you probably need a license. Check out the exclusions, cost, and other important licensing information on our Washington Seller of Travel Licensing page.

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• Travel Agency Accreditation and the TRUE Code Membership
• Joining CCRA /

Travel Agency Accreditation and the TRUE Code

$399 annually

Benefits for a total of 25 travel agents.

Travel Agency accreditation and identification are the very building blocks for a successful independent travel agency. If you’ve made the decision that you want to operate independently of a host agency, then your next step is to determine the right identification system for you. CCRA’s accreditation is powered by the world renown TRUE Code.

Benefits of Obtaining a Travel Agency Accreditation:

• Your agency is recognized and paid commissions directly – no sharing or splits.
• Your agency is building volume and status with suppliers under your own name.
• Your customers remain your customers – forever.
• You choose the suppliers you want to do business with.
• You choose the tools you want to run your sales and marketing programs.
• Your credibility is established and elevated by having a known travel professional credential.

All the details you need to apply for TRUE Accreditation

Our accredited agencies, leisure focused 95%, use true for cruise bookings 90%, use true for hotel bookings 90%, come to ccra for training 95%, renew every year 99%, requirements for becoming an accredited agency with true:.

• Proof of your Legal Structure (Corporation, LLC, DBA or fictitious name registration)
• Seller of Travel Licenses if you reside in California, Florida, Hawaii, Washington or Iowa

Sign Up Today!

Direct Recognition From Suppliers

Make sure your agency is getting the direct recognition it deserves. From the top cruise lines to boutique hotels and in-country tour operators, connect directly and get rid of shared commissions!

More Membership Benefits

When you obtain our highest membership level, your agency will get access to a Members-only dashboard to help you run your business. Exclusive offers, webinars, private training, and access to a private Facebook group for collaboration. Interested in expanding into a host agency? Your TRUE code offers the ability to add 24 additional sub-agents at no cost.

Stand Out as a Professional

With a CCRA Accreditation powered by TRUE, you can advertise your travel agency as an accredited travel business - meaning your agency has passed rigorous screening and verification standards.

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An Overview On Travel Agent Licensing Requirements In The USA and Canada Go Back Button

You are considering becoming a professional travel agent, so you start doing your research on all the things you need to start selling travel. One of the things you may research or come across is licensing. Do you need licensing to start selling travel? The answer to that question is broken down below to hopefully provide you with the clarity you need to move forward.

Travel Agent Licensing Requirements For Travel Agents In The United States

The licensing requirements in the US for travel agents is not much of a licensing process. There are no testing, training or qualification process needed. All that is required is to complete a simple form, pay a small fee and just like that, you can start selling travel in the USA. There are certain states however that have their individual "Seller Of Travel Requirements." These states are California, Florida, Iowa, Washington and Hawaii. We will look at the individual licensing requirements for those later on in this article for those looking to trade in travel products and services in any of those 5 states. 

Travel Agent Licensing Requirements For Travel Agents In Canada

Selling travel legally in Canada is not so easy as in the US. This is especially so for those living in the province of Ontario. Anyone selling travel products and services in the Province of Ontario must be a registered member of the Travel Industry Council Of Ontario (TICO) or affiliated with a registered member of TICO. There are two different types of TICO registration requirements. If you are looking to start your own travel agency, you must complete the TICO application, qualification, training and registration process to obtain a TICO registration number. If you are looking to simply sell travel, you must first complete the TICO Exam then join a TICO registered travel agency.

So here are the requirements for Travel Agents and Agencies In Ontario

A) Travel Agency must be TICO registered with a TICO number to employ or host travel agents.

B) All members of that Travel Agency, selling or giving advice for travel services, must complete the TICO Exam.

To write the TICO Exam, you must first download and read the TICO education standard manual. This manual provides you with a list of rules, guidelines and etiquette you must follow when selling travel in the province of Ontario. Once you have completed the manual, which should take no longer than one to two weeks, you then need to register for exam at one of the approved centers. You can find a list of upcoming exams on the ACTA (Association Of Canadian Travel Agents) website. The course registration fee is only $35, and there are a few courses you can take. You can either take the Travel Counselors course of if you have and can show experience in the industry you can take the travel manager/supervisor course. The combined courses will cost you $50.

To run your own TICO registered travel agency is not as easy and cost friendly as completing the exam to sell travel through an agency that is already certified. If you are thinking of starting your own TICO registered travel agency, here are the list of requirements:

-   You will need to come up with an application fee of $3000 CDN

-   You must provide your tax returns to show proof of financial stability

-   You will need to show evidence of a minimum $5000 in working capital

-   You will need to provide a $10,000 bond that TICO will hold for two years

-   You will need to open a trust account where all funds you collect for travel must be held.

-   You will need to register your travel business with Service Ontario

TICO registration numbers are non-transferable, so there are no options to buy out an already existing TICO certified travel agency. Starting a travel agency in the province of Ontario is among the hardest if not the hardest in the industry, so if you are new to the business and you are living in Ontario, the easiest thing to do is work through a host agency that is already TICO certified.

British Colombia Travel Agency Licensing Requirements

To start a travel agency in British Columbia, Canada, you are required by the Insurance Council of British Colombian to take a travel insurance exam for a fee of $225 per year. That licensing will be tied to the Agency, and each agent will be required to take the exam once, and then maintain by taking a 2-hour course each year. A 2-year lapse or non-activity will require the agency to start the process all over again.

There are some additional fees and certification requirements for sellers of travel residing in British Columbia.

-   You must register with the BC Corporate Registry

-   You must register with Consumer Protection BC

If you are a hosted agent working under an Agency located in BC, you will need to apply for a branch location of your host agency in British Columbia.

Saskatchewan Colombia Travel Agency Licensing Requirements

Similarly to British Colombia, getting licensed to sell travel in Saskatchewan Canada is insurance based. The tow exams that’s required to be written and passed are the General Insurance Council of Saskatchewan (GICS)—the Qualifying Exam (online: $109 CAD + taxes) and the Travel Bylaw Exam (online: $55 CAD + taxes). The bylaw exam is an open book exam, so you do not need to worry too much about passing it.

US Travel Agency Licensing Requirements Per State

Even though getting your travel business up and running on the national level in the United States is pretty much hassle free, some states have implemented their own registration procedures that may make things a little bit more complicated. 5 States have their own Seller of Travel laws in place. Those states are California, Florida, Washington, Iowa, and Hawaii. These laws are what is called extraterritorial laws that do not just apply to those residing in the above-mentioned states, but those outside of the states selling travel to the residents of those states.

In the State of Delaware, if you plan on opening your travel agency there, you will need an occupational license that can be obtained for the nominal fee of $25. The same procedure is said to be in Lousiana but does not seem to be enforced. When it comes to Seller Of Travel licensing requirements, Louisiana and Delaware are hardly mentioned. It is the 5 primary states mentioned above that is worth paying close attention to.

Hawaii Seller Of Travel Requirements

Hawaii Seller of travel laws states that anyone acting as an intermediary between a person looking to buy travel products and services, and anyone that wishes sell travel products and services, must first register with the Hawaii Travel Agent Licensing Program. All travel agencies, chartered tour operators residing in Hawaii is required to register at the end of each odd-numbered year. The bi-annual registration fee is $140. For those living outside of the State of Hawaii but wish to do business in Hawaii, must apply for a Certificate of Authority to sell trade in travel products and services in the state of Hawaii. The registration cost is $25 per year. For full details of these and other requirements, contact the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

California Seller Of Travel Requirements

Anyone that sells, offers consultation, or offers travel products and travel-related services in the state of California or from n office located in California, is required to be registered as a California Seller Of Travel. This is also including anyone selling or distributing travel certificates, a coupon, vouchers, passes, are all required to comply with the California State Seller Of Travel Laws. Failing to register may result in penalties, a cease and desist order and the possibility of criminal charges.

There are two registration programs for travel businesses located in California. Once is the Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation which manages the handling of customer funds and the other is the California Seller Of Travel Program (CST) that is administered and upheld by the California Attorney General. Out of state agencies are only required to register for the CST. The California seller of travel law is strictly enforced and travel agencies conducting business are required to display their CST number on any marketing material promoting of offering travel services in the State of California.

Florida Seller Of Travel Requirements

In the sate of Florida, anyone seeking to sell travel products or travel related services must register with the Department of Agriculture of Consumer Services. The Seller Of Travel registration requirements applies to all persons offering pre-arranged travel packages, tourist related services, guided tours for Land, Air and Sea.

The state requires a bond of $50,000 and extensive disclosures in order to obtain a Seller Of Travel license. Independent travel agents are not required to post the bond but must meet the other mandatory requirements.

Iowa Seller of Travel Requirements

It is a requirement in the state of Iowa that all sellers of travel register with the department of Economic Development. This applies to anyone selling or offer consultation for travel products and travel-related services.

Washington Seller Of Travel Requirements

The State of Washington has a seller of travel registration requirement done through the Department of Licensing. There are also certain financial requirements and securities that needs to be in place. A travel business can become exempt from these fees is certain business standards are met and funds and consumer funds collected for travel are being held properly.

When looking to get licensing to sell travel, the best thing to do is thoroughly research the laws in your local area. This is another place where the value of a Host Agency comes in. By contacting a host agency, they will not only be able to save you time and money of the licensing and registration process; they will be able to provide you with a lot of the information you are looking for.

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Travel Agent Certification---What are your Options? [+Comparison Chart]

You’re wondering what type of travel agent certification is out there. That’s funny. I’ve written an article on just that topic! How handy.

Let’s make sure we’re clear about what this article is and what it is not about:

It IS about travel agent certification.

It IS NOT about travel agency numbers/travel agency accreditations ( more on travel agency accreditations ).

It IS NOT about travel agent training ( more on travel agent training and education ).

What’s the difference between travel agency training and certification? Well, it’s a blurry line so we decided to make our own lines in the sandbox. When we say "certification," this is what we mean:

• Something comes from organizations whose education programs specialize in travel industry exclusively
• A comprehensive training program, not just a specific destination or vendor
• Education that is not provided by a vendor, destination, or travel agency

When it comes to certification, we’re also going to be selective. The travel agent certifications we mention aren’t the only certification or training program for travel agents—you can find plenty more. What we want are organizations that are active in the travel agent community at large.

What constitutes an organization that is “active in the agent community?” For our purposes, it means they attend travel agent events, they provide resources and tools beneficial to agents, I know them or have met someone that vouches for them. As a caveat, I'll mention this article isn't an endorsement of any of the programs—think of it more as a vetted list!

I believe that an active organization = having a pulse on things. An out of touch organization is the last thing I want associated with a travel agent certification program! Therefore, organizations that I haven’t seen active in the community got the axe. Sorry. Let's mosey on.

Travel Agent Certification Comparison Chart

If you'd like the info in this article in a bite-sized bundle of certification goodness, download our full certification comparison chart below. Here's a sneak preview of what's to come!

Read on because we have LOADs more info on certification programs that will follow the infographic).

The Basics of Travel Agent Certification

First things first; understand that there is no universal travel agent certification. If you found a site that suggests you need to take their course in order to become a travel agent, run the other direction!  There are no travel agent certifications required by law in the US and most of Canada.

Here’s how it works: In the travel industry (especially for the US), there is no formalized process to become a travel agent. This means there is no national board exam you need to pass, no state certification requirements (although, make sure you’re familiar with the  US and Canadian licensing and seller of travel laws ).

That can be great—anyone can break into the industry regardless of education, finances, or location. On the other hand, anytime ‘anyone’ is involved, by default you get… how shall we say this? A wide range of capabilities. Translation: you’ll have some really unqualified people calling themselves travel agents. Boo. (But hey, let's be honest! This applies to any industry, including those with rigorous requirements to get through the gates.)

But you take the good with the bad—that’s the upside and the downside of an industry with a low barrier to entry.

Next up? A breakdown of travel agent certification programs—also known as "acronym fun." The travel agent certification programs we’re going to mention—and we've got a few of them—involve acronyms, fun! Stephanie Lee, MCC, CTC, CTIE … awesome! Mmm, I love me some acronyms.

ASTA's VTA Travel Agent Certification Program

Launched in 2017, ASTA's (American Society of Travel Advisors) VTA program is the new kid on the block in terms of certifications. However, established back in the days of steamships, ASTA is the largest and longest-standing travel association in the industry. It's a household name among travel industry professionals, and advisors who are VTA certified will get their seal of approval. ASTA's VTA focuses on cultivating a level of professionalism among its certified agents. It focuses on topics such as industry ethics, legal regulation competency, in addition to tried and true topics like marketing and sales.

The other perk of being VTA certified? You pull to the top in the travel advisor search on ASTA's website. Chalking up 700,000 consumer visits annually in 2019, your VTA credentials give you a ton more exposure!

If you're not quite ready for full ASTA certification, check out their Roadmap to Becoming a Travel Advisor course that I created in partnership with ASTA. :) It's $199 and includes a year of ASTA's future travel professional membership, which is honestly quite the deal!

Pre-requisites:

You don't need to be an ASTA member to enroll in their VTA program. However, the only prerequisite for the VTA program is to qualify for their membership. To fulfill this requirement, independent contractors (their base-level membership) is to be based in U.S. and earn less than 1 million in sales annually (if you earn more, you will qualify for a different level of membership). ( Read more details on their member qualifications here .)

Here's the cost breakdown for ASTA's VTA program:

• $399 for ASTA members
• $598 for non-member independent contractors (this includes 1 year ASTA IC membership)
• $729 for non-member Travel Advisor (includes 1 year ASTA agency membership); $179 for recertification.

Time to Complete:

The program can be done at your own pace, but must be completed within 12 months of enrollment.

Maintenance:

VTA advisors must re-certify every two years. This involves a $179 recertification fee for two additional courses or one course and participation in ASTA Operational Excellence through Benchmarking program (to be completed within 12 months).

The Travel Institute Travel Agent Certifications

With nearly 50 years under their belt, The Travel Institute holds the prize for the longest-running travel agent certification program. They’ve got a few programs, each focusing on agents at different stages in their career. These certifications are used by travel agents across the industry—cruise, corporate, luxury, leisure. Here's a few of their certifications below:

Certified Travel Associate (CTA)

• Description:  Agent must have 12 months experience in the industry and are required to take 8 core classes, 4 electives. (This is a prerequisite for the CTC certification, listed below). At program's end, you must pass the CTA exam with a 70% score, at minimum.
• Time to Complete:  Most agents can finish within 3-6 months but have up to 12 months
• Cost: $450 for complete online course (with an added $25 fee if you want to pay in monthly installments). The print course is $550 plus shipping. $250 for test only (must have 12 months experience).
• Maintenance: To maintain certification, agents must earn 10 continuing education credits (CEUs) a year.

Certified Travel Counsellor (CTC)

• Description:  Agents must have 5 years experience in the industry and a CTA designation (testing out is available). The CTC is a management skills program designed for travel agents looking to build or grow their business. Curriculum consists of 10 courses on key topics and the completion of a "white paper," 2000-3000 words in length.
• Time to Complete:  Most agents can finish within 6-9 months but have up to 12 months
• Cost: $550 complete course, or $600 for CTC Fast Track (for agents with 5 years of experience, but who don't have a CTA certification)

Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE)

• Description:  This designation is for non-consumer sales roles with 5+ years of experience. It is equivalent to the CTC. Curriculum consists of (100) videos 10-15 minutes in length and the completion of a white paper 2000-3000 words in length.
• Time to Complete:  18 months
• Cost: $550 to complete course
• Maintenance:  To maintain certification, agents must earn 10 continuing education credits (CEUs) a year.

You may be thinking, hey, Travel Institute has a TAP test everyone talks about . . . and you would be correct! Here's the deal on that on the TAP Test : 

This one is a bit confusing, but I want to mention the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test offered by The Travel Institute (Cost: $95). This is not a travel agent certification—think of it like a final exam for a Travel Agent 101 course. No degree comes with it, but you’re learning. Also important to note, the TAP test is also offered by institutions outside The Travel Institute.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Travel Agent Certifications

CLIA’s travel agent certification program dishes a whopping 5 power-packed acronyms-induced certifications that depend on the agent’s familiarization with ships and agency role. To gain certification, an agent must first be a  member of CLIA . As the CLIA affiliation would suggest, this is a travel agent certification program geared towards agents specializing in cruises (with exception of one travel-management certification). This certification emphasizes hands-on experiences. Their certification attainment is progressive, and are listed in the order you must attain them (again, with exception of the travel agency executive program). For all programs, you must provide a signed letter of verification from your CLIA agency that you’re in good standing. 

Certified Cruise Counselor (CCC)

• Description/ Course requirements:  This certification is for individuals who'd like to explore the cruise industry or are a new travel agent looking to expand their cruise business. Participants must complete/ pass 8 mandatory courses and complete 30 elective credits.
• Product Knowledge Requirements:  Participants must complete/ pass 8 mandatory courses and complete 30 elective credits. Additionally, they must complete one live or virtual ship inspection; book 5 (CLIA) staterooms; and attend (at least) one personal cruise for 2+ nights.
• Time to Complete:  18 months from date of enrollment
• Cost: $59 Cost does not include applicable enrollment/re-enrollment fees, course of conference fees, ship inspections or cost of cruises.
• Maintenance: In order to maintain certification, agent must be an active IAM member. If there is a membership lapse, agent may need to pay a reinstatement fee.

Accredited Cruise Counsellor (ACC)

• Description/ Course requirements:  120 credits total—40 from mandatory training and 80 from electives. (Having a CTA designation counts toward 10 elective credits). In addition to credits, agents must also meet product knowledge requirements (see below).
• Product Knowledge Requirements:  5 ship inspections; 2 personal cruises (at least 2 nights in length); book/deposit at least 20 staterooms (you can count bookings up to 3 months prior to enrollment). All product knowledge requirements must take place on a CLIA cruise line and must be booked through a CLIA-member agency.
• Time to Complete:  2 years
• Cost: $89 Cost does not include applicable enrollment/re-enrollment fees, course of conference fees, ship inspections or cost of cruises.

Master Cruise Counsellor (MCC)

• Description/ Course requirements:  Must have ACC certification. Course completion requires 140 credits total—90 from required trainings and 40. Additionally, participants must meet product knowledge requirements. Which brings us to . . .
• Product Knowledge Requirements:  Take two 7+ day cruises (On lines not utilized for your ACC, must be two different destination itineraries, but can be cruises from year prior to enrollment); complete 3 shipboard inspections not utilized for your ACC; 32 staterooms booked/deposited within 2 years. (must all be on CLIA member lines)

Master Cruise Counsellor Experiential Learning Program (ELP)

• Description/ Course requirements:  100 credits of live or online courses/seminars. Complete 1 CLIA certificate program, attend 1 CLIA live/virtual training events; attend 1 CLIA Cruise360 conference; attain 3 CLIA training programs; and write one comprehensive 3-5 page paper.
• Product Knowledge Requirements:  Take four, 7+ night cruises on separate product/ destination and book/deposit 100 staterooms.
• Cost: $219 Cost does not include applicable enrollment/re-enrollment fees, course of conference fees, ship inspections or cost of cruises.

Elite Cruise Counsellor (ECC)

• Description/ Course Requirements:  Course requirements are 6-fold. 1. Must have MCC certification. 2. Complete any 3 of 5 online courses, live seminars or certificate programs. 3. Complete a CLIA certificate program (not applied toward other requirements). 4. Complete 50 elective training credits, which can be attained by a combo of additional certificate program, attendance at CLIA360, 5 additional courses/seminars, completion of approved industry partner training . 5. Participate in an industry impact activity during completion term (e.g. environment advocacy and/or natural disaster relief). 6. Meet product knowledge requirements (below)
• Product Knowledge Requirements:  Take one 10+ night cruise on lines not utilized for your ACC or MCC; complete 2 live or CLIA-provided virtual ship inspections on different ships from your ACC or MCC (maybe same member line, but different ships); 60 staterooms booked/deposited within two-year enrollment period. (must all be on CLIA member lines)

travel agency executive (TAE)

• Description/ Course Requirements: Unlike the above certifications, this program is for management-level travel agency professionals with a current CLIA-affiliate agency. Participants must serve as a travel professional in the role of executive, director, accounting manager, marketing manager, e-commerce manager, or someone who works in a leadership capacity . Participants must complete 6 mandatory courses and elective training. Elective training is fulfilled through completing 3 additional courses or designation of CTA or CTIE from the Travel Institute (see above). Elective training is waived for those who can document they have an undergraduate or graduate degree in business or a related field.
• Personal Cruise Experience:  Take 2 CLIA-cruise line cruises (duration of cruise unspecified).

Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Certifications

 The GBTA is the front runner in the industry when it comes to corporate (ahem, business) travel. Being corporate-minded, it's also no surprise they also have an independent board whose purpose is to "administer a valid, reliable, defensible, and psychometrically sound examination."

I had to look up the definition of psychometrically. I wanted to make sure I wasn't sending people to a program where they are psychologically tortured. We're good, don't worry! :)

Here is the GBTA accreditation option:

Global Travel Professional (GTP)

• Description: This is the travel agent certification for those focused on business travel management. It gauges a travel agent’s competency in four different “domains:” Strategic business planning; buyer/supplier relations; travel program administration; and Data/Analytics/Finance. Since it’s a global program, the GTP accreditation is not limited to travel agents in the US/ Canada.
• Pre-requisites: The official stance is the program is only for agents with "a minimum of three years of business travel related experience." Don't let that dissuade you if you've never had the title "travel manager". If you've been booking travel for your company as an admin assistant for three years, you've got the experience!
• Cost: $350 GBTA members, $450 for nonmembers. I hate to bombard you with yet more acronyms, but current CCTE (Certified Corporate Travel Executives), SMMC (Strategic Management Meetings Certification), CGTE (Certified Government Travel Executive), and GLP (Global Leadership Professional) holders can take the exam for free.
• Time to Complete: Must apply for a exam date/location . Test centers allot 3 hours to take the exam.
• Maintenance: GTP holders must re-certify every three years by earning 50 re-certification credits. This is done by showing involvement in professional development activities or by passing another GTP exam.

To Certify or Not to Certify? That Is the Question. 

I’m often asked if an agent should go through a travel agent certification course before they start their agency. That’s the million dollar question—to certify or not to certify. First, keep in mind this site specializes in working with agents—many of whom are new to the industry—that are aligned with host agencies.

In travel, training is plentiful but also (very) fragmented. You can get training through your host agency, franchise and/or consortia. Suppliers, destinations, and associations have boatloads of trainings for you; travel schools—both on and offline—have trainings to help you learn the ropes. It’s like the toothpaste aisle at Target, the options can be overwhelming.

Here’s my thought on getting a travel agent certification:  To avoid wasting money and time, get your toes wet first and see if you even like the industry.  Join a host agency, make a few bookings, try your hand at being an entrepreneur and travel agent—it’s not for everyone. If you do like it, I say certification is a great way to network, expand your knowledge base, and get a cute (yet professional) lil’ acronym to put after your name!

Broadcast those Certifications!

Whether it is a certification we mentioned above, a destination or vendor specific training certification or maybe Host Agency Reviews' own 7 Day Setup Accelerator Certificate , make sure you let the world know! It shows you've been busy and are dedicated in furthering your education and network in the travel industry. When you earn a new certification, push out to your various social media channels and definitely add it to the certification section of your LinkedIn profile !

Also don't miss our ultimate travel agent training and education article below!

About the Author

Steph grew up in the travel industry, helping on and off with her mom's homebased travel agency. She has worked with thousands of agents in her role as a former host agency director before leaving in 2012 to start HAR. She's insatiably curious, loves her pups Fennec and Orion, and -- in case you haven't noticed -- is pretty quirky and free-spirited.

If you’re looking for Steph, she leaves a trace where ever she goes! You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn (her fav) and Pinterest as 'iamstephly'. 🙂 You can also catch her on her Substack, Bumblin' Around, where she writes on things outside the world of HAR.

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Raise your hand if you love to travel. Whether you’re often on the road or take a vacation just once a year, you’ve probably heard of travel agents. These folks help plan and book itineraries for you, eliminating a lot of the pain points when it comes to traveling.

These days many people skip out on a travel agent in lieu of booking their trip online, but if you’re a frequent traveler, you may want to become a travel agent yourself. Why? Because it can save you a lot of money — and may even earn you some in the process.

Let’s take a look at how to become a travel agent, why it’s something you may want to consider and the ways it can work for you.

Why become a travel agent?

Have you ever obsessively researched the best hotels in a city you’re planning to visit? How about checking seat maps on an airplane? If getting into the nitty-gritty of travel logistics is something you do in your spare time, you might also enjoy becoming a travel agent.

Not only do you get to plan trips for others, but you’ll also be able to take advantage of special discounts on many facets of travel.

This is true for your clients, but also for yourself. Travel agents have access to a variety of discounted rates on both airlines and hotels, even when booking travel for themselves.

» Learn more: How to get a refund from a travel agency

How to become a travel agent

Find a program.

Becoming a travel agent isn’t as simple as declaring yourself one. Typically, the first step is to sign up for a program that’ll teach you the basics of running your own travel business.

There are a variety of programs to choose from, depending on your interests and career goals. Most programs will teach you about the business side of being a travel agent as well as how to plan trips, so your courses in itinerary planning and travel insurance will be coupled with business ethics and customer service.

If you’re wondering how to become a travel agent from home, don’t worry. Many of these courses don’t have to be done in person; there are online programs that will teach you everything you need to know from the comfort of your living room.

Apply for certification

Once you’ve completed your coursework, you’ll want to apply for certification. Although there is no single standard that designates you a travel agent, there are a number of different identifiers that you can acquire. Some of the more common ones are:

International Air Transport Association, or IATA, which allows you to book travel on domestic and international airlines.

Travel Industry Designator Service, or TIDS, which allows agents to book trips with a variety of travel suppliers and receive commissions.

Cruise Lines International Association, or CLIA, which provides agents the ability to book trips on cruises around the world.

In order to access Marriott’s travel advisor rates, for example, you can use any three of these designations, along with a variety of others.

Each of these associations and identifiers have different implications for your business, so you’ll want to be sure you’ve fully researched them before applying for membership.

» Learn more: Do travel agents really save you money?

Save money as a travel agent

Once you’ve qualified as a travel agent, what comes next? If you travel frequently, becoming a travel agent can be a huge benefit to you, as it offers discounted rates and access to luxury travel options.

Discounted rates

Travel agents have access to negotiated rates that aren’t available to the general public. The exact amount will vary depending on the business. Hilton, for example, will give personal travel discounts of 50% off at newly-opened hotels and up to 25% off at the remainder of hotels within Hilton’s portfolio.

Hyatt, meanwhile, will give you a discount on personal travel of up to 50%, but only during select dates of the year. And although not all airlines give discounts to travel agents, many do.

Regardless, these are some pretty spectacular savings, and if you’re looking to save money on your vacations, being a travel agent can help.

Luxury programs

Becoming a travel agent isn’t only about saving money, however. It also grants you access to many hotel chains’ luxury travel programs.

If you’re big into elite status benefits, this is definitely something you’ll want to consider — especially since you don’t need any status at all to receive these perks, as long as you book through the hotel’s agent portal.

Most major hotel chains have these programs, including Hyatt Privé, Hilton Impresario, Marriott STARS & Luminous, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Belmond Bellini Club, Rosewood Elite, Mandarin Oriental Fan Club and Shangri-La Luxury Circle.

While benefits vary by brand, many of these offers include things like room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, early check-in or late checkout and credits for expenses like dining or spa services. General consumers aren’t eligible for these programs, but once you’ve become a registered travel agent, they become accessible to you; however, some programs — such as Hyatt Privé — are invitation only.

For the most part, booking rooms through these programs shouldn’t cost more than the standard rate you’d be paying anyway, so you have the potential to get big benefits without shelling out any additional money.

However, note that these numbers don’t take into account any other discounted rates for which you may be eligible, such as those offered to American Automobile Association members and veterans .

» Learn more: Uncommon tips for saving money on travel

Earn money as a travel agent

Of course, becoming a travel agent isn’t all about scoring discounts for yourself. If you’re looking to earn some money, being a travel agent can be a good way to do so.

Note that travel agents operate in a customer-facing role, so you’ll also need to be able to build client relationships and be comfortable with sales. Courses such as those mentioned above can help train you to do this and run a successful business.

If booking travel and organizing trips for others is something that appeals to you, there’s definitely money to be earned. Marriott, for example, gives agents a commission of between 8% and 10% for all eligible stays booked.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of booking through online travel agencies

If you’d like to become a travel agent

There are a few good reasons to become a travel agent, especially if you travel a lot. Although it takes time and effort to complete training and apply for accreditation, the benefits you’ll receive as a travel advisor can be significant. This is true whether you’re booking personal travel or have built yourself a client base. Either way, there’s money to be had — and saved.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Update May 10, 2024

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Are you traveling or living outside the U.S.? STEP is a free service that sends you emails with updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, it helps us contact you with instructions on what to do.

Why join STEP?

• Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
• Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

What kind of messages does STEP send? Currently, STEP sends emails only. STEP can send you several types of information:

• Routine Messages : News and updates about the country you picked.
• Alerts : Messages about short-term security, terrorism, health, weather, or disaster situations that could impact your travels.
• Travel Advisories : We re-evaluate the situation in each country every 6-12 months. Advisories include a simple 1-4 rating system, details about specific risks in the country, and clear steps U.S. citizens should take to stay safe.

Join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

After you set up your account, you can pick what types of messages you want to get.

Stay in touch during an emergency.  Signing up for STEP helps the U.S. embassy get in touch with you if there’s an emergency. And, if your family or friends in the U.S. can’t reach you with urgent news while you’re traveling, we can use the information in STEP to try and contact you.

Become a Smart Traveler Now!   STEP is an easy first step to being a smart traveler. You should also always research your destination , and consider additional ways to get safety and security information from the U.S. Department of State, like on social media.

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Learn about your destination

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

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Become an ARC-Accredited Agent

ARC enables U.S. travel agencies to easily ticket flights worldwide on more than 200 airlines.

Participation Requirements

Your agency must be located in and authorized to do business within the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and/or American Samoa.

There is a $2,300 application fee for new agencies. Your agency must also provide a bond, letter of credit or cash deposit in the minimum amount of $20,000.

Your agency must have a designated agency manager and an ARC Specialist, at least one being authorized to work in the U.S. One person may serve as both roles. See the Agent Reporting Agreement (ARA) for more information.

Your agency must provide entity papers, an Employer ID Number and any licenses for local jurisdictions. For more information, see the Industry Agents' Handbook (IAH) .

• Review the eligibility requirements.
• Review the Agency Reporting Agreement (ARA) .
• Download and complete the application .

• Submit your application with payment.
• Ensure you have provided all supporting documents.
• Keep a copy of the application for your records.

• Application will be reviewed and documentation verified.
• An in-person interview will be conducted at your agency.

ARC Verified Travel Consultant

If your agency isn’t ready to start ticketing through ARC, but wants the other benefits of participation, apply to become an ARC Verified Travel Consultant (VTC) . You’ll be able to brand yourself as a travel agent, receive an agency ID and be included on ARC’s Agency List, recognized by industry suppliers. The application fee is $195.

I don’t think travel agencies completely understand the resources ARC provides and the vast knowledge their staff has in the travel industry. Since we are so new to the industry, having a trusted partner to guide us is very powerful. – Andrew Appleton, Travel Director, Sandboxx

Get Started

Start your application today.

Check out ARC’s most frequently asked questions about becoming an ARC agent.

ARC authorizes corporate travel departments to ticket flights on more than 200 airlines worldwide and provides products to help manage these services.

Designed for agencies that ticket outside of a GDS, ARC’s VTC program offers agencies global recognition and access to revenue-generating products.

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License required for Tour and Travel agencies for running their business

Travel and tourism industry, also known as Tour and Travel agencies is one of the major industries in India and plays a very significant role as employment generators. States like Goa and North-Eastern generate their primary revenue depending on tourism.

The licenses required to start a tour and travel agencies business in India are;

Business Entity Choices for Travel Agency

Any individual who is willing to open a Tour and Travel agency could open it under various selections of business entities, and these choices are left with the person who wants to start the business. Entrepreneurs generally select Private Limited companies as the preferred one amongst the rest, because Private Limited companies get a lot of benefits and subsidies from the government.

Also, business enterprises like Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) or One Person Company (OPC) could also be preferable for businesspersons who want to gradually build the business or carry it out on a part-time basis. As Limited Liability Partnerships have no obligation for audit unless the turnover goes beyond Rs.40 lakhs in a year, it shall be ideal for businesspersons who are getting their first-hand experience in their Tour and Travel agency venture. Then again, OPCs can also be ideal for businesspersons who are establishing their commerce as a single individual and want to avoid having broad compliance-related requirements to follow. However, a business enterprise offering limited liability status as well as separate legal entity status shall be perfect for a travel agent.

GST Registration for the Travel Business

It is important for business owners to adopt GST Registration so that they could collect GST from the customers on the service incurred through the business.

GST payable by Air Travel Agent is;

•    Commission income from the airlines for booking domestic air tickets, GST at the rate of 18% on 5% of Basic fare

•    Commission income from the airlines for booking international air tickets at the rate of 18% GST on 10% of basic fare

•    Processing/service fee for booking of tickets for the customer, GST at the rate of 18% on invoice from Air traveller

Trademark Required for the Travel Business

If the businessperson wishes to have a unique name and symbol, he could do so by means of registering as a trademark provided under the Intellectual Property Rights laws in India.

Becoming a Government of India approved Travel Agent

By registration as a Government of India approved Travel Agent is not compulsory; it is useful and provides recognition for the travel agent. The goal and objective of the scheme for recognition of Travel Agent or Agency (TA) is to boost the quality standard and service in the tourism industry. In order to become a Government of India recognized travel agent, the travel agent is required to satisfy few requirements on capital invested, number of employees employed, maintenance of minimum office space as well as other stipulations. Furthermore, application should be made towards the Ministry of tourism in the prescribed format in order to become a Government of India approved Travel Agent.

The Travel agency is required to be approved by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This travel Association offers several training methods and professional development services towards the travel agencies. IATA accreditation is very much preferred seal of approval recognized worldwide. It is important for a travel agency or for a travel agent availing international travel packages towards being a member of IATA, as it gives a lot of benefits in the air services across the globe.  

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Americans will need Real ID to travel in 2025: Here are the requirements

The U.S. is a year away from requiring Real ID.

The United States is less than a year out from the Department of Homeland Security's federal requirement for Real ID for domestic flights and entering federal facilities, and to help you get ahead -- and avoid a dreaded hourslong wait at the DMV -- "Good Morning America" has gathered all the essential details you need to ensure your identification is up to date.

What is a Real ID?

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security previously delayed the implementation of Real ID several times over the past few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But as of this week, U.S. residents have under a year to obtain their soon-to-be federally required form of identification.

Here's what you need to know:

The federal Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses," the DHS states on its website .

The new rules set out which forms of identification may be used to board flights within the United States and to enter secure federal facilities such as military bases, federal courthouses and other federal facilities.

Applying for a Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency and a trip to your local DMV. See below for more on the full requirements and application process details.

All U.S. states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories are issuing Real IDs.

Click here for additional answers from DHS to some frequently asked questions about Real ID.

Real ID application requirements

Requirements are largely similar across the states, but as of 2021, according to DHS , states are no longer required to collect a social security document from a Real ID applicant. They still must collect and retain the number as part of the application process to verify that information with the Social Security Administration as currently required by the Real ID regulations.

"Not all states have applied this, so please check with your state driver's licensing agency to find the most up to date information," the DHS website states.

In California for example, residents can apply for a Real ID by filling out an application online and upload documents before visiting a DMV office with their uploaded documents to complete the application, which should only take about 15 minutes in person, depending on wait times.

MORE: Millions of Americans could be grounded from flying because of REAL ID deadline

Here's everything California residents would need to provide for the application:

Proof of identity: One original or certified document. For example, a valid passport or birth certificate. Legal name change document is required if name on proof of identity is different from the name on the other documents such as a marriage certificate or adoption papers.

Proofs of California residency: Two documents, paper copies. For example, a utility bill or bank statement.

Social Security number: Some exceptions may apply. Click here for additional details from the DMV REAL ID page.

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What is the latest deadline for real id.

Earlier this week marked one year before DHS begins enforcing the Real ID requirement on May 7, 2025.

Starting on that date, a Real ID or other federally approved identification will be required to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

Federal agencies including Transportation Security Administration may only accept state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards as identification for the purposes of accessing federal facilities -- including TSA airport security checkpoints -- if the license or card was issued by a Real ID compliant state in accordance with the Real ID security standards.

Enhanced Driver's Licenses issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, according to DHS , and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.

What does Real ID look like?

The Real ID looks almost the same as a current state ID card or driver's license, but has a compliant star marking.

Some differences may vary by state, such as in California, where a small golden bear appears on the top right corner with the white star on the animal's left side.

If an ID says "federal limits apply," that person will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter federal facilities, such as military bases, federal courthouses, and other locations after the May 7, 2025, deadline.

Does Real ID replace a passport?

The Real ID does not replace a passport for international travel, however it ensures that travelers can fly domestic within the U.S. and access secure federal locations without additional documentation, according to the DMV.

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