travel agents id

Elevate your travel career with the IATA/IATAN ID Card.

Validate your professional status and get access to industry-exclusive travel, shopping, and training deals.

What is IATA/IATAN ID Card?

The IATA/IATAN ID Card is the only globally recognized identification issued by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for travel professionals that work for an IATA/IATAN accredited or TIDS/TSI agency. With the IATA/IATAN ID Card your professional status can be validated by industry suppliers.

Once your ID Card application is approved, you will get access to supplier concessionary rates on hotels, car rentals, theme parks, and other travel benefits. In addition, you will get access to savings on IATA Training courses and merchandise, gift cards & retail deals .*

*Certain offers and supplier benefits are only available in certain regions.

So many benefits to a single card:

Recognition

Exclusivity for recognized travel professionals.

The IATA/IATAN ID Card is not just any identification – it's a symbol of recognition in the travel industry. It sets you apart as a trusted professional with insider privileges. By joining our exclusive community, you'll gain access to unparalleled benefits, networking opportunities, and resources tailored to your unique needs.

Unbeatable discounts on hotels, car rentals, theme parks, and more.

As an ID Card holder, you'll gain access to a vast range of exclusive discounts. Imagine saving on luxurious accommodations, enjoying hassle-free car rentals, and exploring world-renowned theme parks at supplier rates. These incredible savings make your ID Card application fee a smart investment that quickly pays for itself. Download the AgentExperience app and get access to your benefits. 

Professional growth

Preferred rates on IATA Training courses.

Knowledge is power, especially in the travel industry. With the IATA/IATAN ID Card, you'll enjoy preferred rates on a wide selection of IATA Training courses. Elevate your expertise, stay ahead of the competition, and expand your professional horizons – all at a price that leaves you smiling.

"With the ID Card I gain access to industry rates and discounts for being a member of the travel/tourism industry"

- Aaron Baynton , Colette Tours (Toronto, Canada)

Your expertise should be rewarded

Unlock exclusive opportunities with ID Card

Accessing exclusive offers and elevating your travel experiences is effortless with our digital ID card. Simply download the IATA AgentExperience App to enjoy a seamless process. With just a tap, verify your professional status with suppliers and gain immediate access to exclusive travel deals. Explore a complete map of travel offers worldwide.

• Save up to 30% at over 100.000 hotels
• Up to 50% off top brands and merchandise
• +25 courses and diplomas at a preferred rate

Travel insurance

Travel Insurance Travel with confidence as a US or Canadian ID card holder. You automatically receive Travel Accident Protection, offering coverage of up to $35,000 for accidental death and dismemberment. Additionally, choose our optional ID Card Travel Protection Program for customizable coverage at desirable rates. Extend protection to your family members as well. Visit UATP for program details.

Nurture client relationships and promote destinations

Deepen your client relationships by sharing expert insight and advice on the amazing destinations you've personally experienced. As a trusted travel professional, your recommendations and firsthand knowledge establish credibility and trust. Promote your favorite destinations while elevating your status in the industry. Strengthen connections and showcase your passion for travel.

Interested in learning about all benefits and features?

Download the benefit guide.

Featured offers:

Join our community of travel professionals and unlock a world of possibilities. 

Use code ITAN25 for 25% off on your application fee*

*Terms and conditions

- Promo code is valid until 8 August 2023.

- Eligible for all countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the iata/iatan id card.

• The IATA/IATAN ID Card is the preferred means of recognition of travel professionals by the Industry. In order to assist industry suppliers in the management, distribution, and control of their industry concessions; the ID Card is often used to safely and efficiently verify a bona fide IATA travel agent via  CheckACode.com .  

How much does an ID Card cost?

• The price of an ID Card may range from USD30.00 to USD70.00 depending on the class of agency you work for (additional courier fees may apply).

Who is eligible?

• Travel agency's  Sole Owner ,  Partners ,  Stockholders ,  Shareholders  (must own at least 20% of the company shares and be listed in IATA Agency records)
• Directors ,  Managers ,  Employees,  or any person holding a remunerated position involving the administration, marketing, finance, operations, and/or sale of travel
• Independent Consultants  - a person working for a travel agency pursuant to a written contract or agreement in compliance with applicable laws and regulations

What is the eligibility criteria?

• The applicant must have  a remunerated position  at the travel agency
• The applicant must be  at least 18 years of age  at the time of application
• The applicant must work  at least 20 hours a week  for the travel agency
• Canadian applicants  must earn at least CAD5,000 (salary and/or commission) in the past 24 months of the ID Card Application

Note: Cargo, MSO, GSA, TRUE and Travelsellers.com locations are not eligible for IATA/IATAN ID Card

Proof of employment is required for every applicant except  Sole Owner ,  Partners ,  Stockholders ,  Shareholders . Please ensure the proof of employment must be in PDF format and dated no longer than 3-month from the date of application.

How do I get an ID Card?

• For US Travel Professionals, please visit the   IATAN site .
• For All Other Travel Professionals, please visit the  ID Card Application Platform .

Do you need help with your application?

• Consult the instructions here .

Get the recognition and savings you deserve!

IMPORTANT PRIVACY INFORMATION: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) does not sell or rent your email address to any third party.

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How to get an independent contractor travel agent id card.

The lure of discounted travel and the opportunity to work from home have led many to consider entering the travel industry as an independent contractor and obtaining a travel agent ID card. Some companies who were more in the business of selling "travel agent kits" than selling cruises and tours promised heavily discounted travel to anyone who purchased their package and flashed the provided ID card proclaiming "I'm a travel agent." In reaction, the travel industry instituted many restrictions to eliminate these "card mills" and now only recognizes select ID cards. However, for anyone who is serious about a career in travel, you can get an independent contractor ID.

Commit to a host agency . A host agency has business relationships with the cruise lines and tour companies and typically obtains preferred pricing and higher commission levels than you could get on your own. While they may charge an upfront and monthly fee, or retain a percentage of your commissions, they also offer training, support and the opportunity to participate in discounted educational travel called FAMs. The Professional Association of Travel Hosts (PATH) is a good place to begin your search. There are many other excellent host agencies not affiliated with PATH.

Educate yourself. The most common ID card is obtained not from your host agency, but from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). However, CLIA requires that your host be a member agency and that you are enrolled in a cruise counselor certification program and take at least one educational class per year. Your host may have additional educational requirements.

Sell that cruise! The independent contractor ID card provided by CLIA, or any other organization, is intended for individuals actively engaged in the selling of travel. Most host agencies require you to sell a minimum amount of travel within a designated time, and they reserve the right to terminate your agreement should you fail to do so.

Apply for your card. You can apply online if you have a scanned or digital passport photo (square) in JPG format (see References). You can also download the application from the CLIA website and forward it to their processing center along with a passport-style photo and the fee ($29, as of May 2011). Your host agency manager must approve the card. You must renew the card yearly.

Look for a host agency that offers training for those new to the travel industry.

Attend a travel agent trade show to meet representatives from various host agencies.

Beware of "card mill" host agencies offering unrealistic benefits.

Related Articles

How to become a travel agent for royal caribbean cruises →, how to get travel agent discounts →, how to become a travel agent in new jersey →, how to become an airline distributor →.

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent →

How to obtain your travel agent certification →.

• Cruise Lines International Association
• Professional Association of Travel Hosts
• Beware of "card mill" host agencies offering unrealistic benefits.

Randy Pierce is a freelance writer living on the Gulf Coast in Alabama. Specializing in the travel industry, he has been designated a master cruise counselor by the Cruise Line International Association. Pierce also holds degrees in economics and English.

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THE JOURNAL

Travel Advisor Resources

What Is an IATA Number & Why Do Travel Agents Need One?

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora travel.

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/iata-number

For decades, travel agencies have used an IATA number to prove their legitimacy and facilitate various types of bookings around the world. But what exactly is the relationship between an IATA number and travel advisors? Below, we break down everything you need to know, including how to obtain access to an IATA number if you’re learning how to become a travel agent .

First, what does IATA stand for?

As a prospective travel agent (a.k.a. travel advisor), you might assume IATA translates to something along the lines of the “International Association of Travel Agencies.” But the acronym actually stands for International Air Transport Association. 

What’s an IATA number then? What’s it used for?

There are variations, but most IATA numbers are made up of a unique, seven-digit combination. Originally, these numbers were exclusively used to verify air ticket distributors. This allowed early travel agencies to sell tickets on behalf of airlines. 

Over time, IATA numbers’ use grew. As hotel chains and other suppliers began expanding and adopting global distribution systems (GDS) to streamline bookings, it made more sense to use an existing identifier that was already strongly associated with the travel industry than to create an entirely new ID. Thus, the IATA number was adopted as the global standard for recognizing who booked what. 

In other words, the use of IATA numbers has facilitated standardization within the travel industry, enabling smoother transactions and better tracking of bookings across different platforms and systems. It’s used widely within the travel industry for various purposes, including booking and ticketing, to identify travel agencies in transactions, and to enable agencies to work with airlines and other travel service providers. It's an important part of the infrastructure that supports global air travel and the wider travel industry.

IATA numbers ensure legitimacy

There’s a lengthy verification process to obtain an IATA number. This process ensures that a hotel can trust that a travel agent booking is legitimate.

IATA numbers are not the same as IATA codes

If this is your first foray into the travel industry, you may be more familiar with IATA’s work than you realize. IATA codes — those three-letter tags attached to nearly every airport in the world, like LAX for Los Angeles International Airport or LGA for LaGuardia Airport in NYC — have long been the global standard for airport identification. 

Nevertheless, while IATA codes and IATA numbers are issued by the same organization, they have different uses.

Who uses an IATA number? Do you need one for your travel business?

Many jobs in the travel industry are associated with IATA numbers, as are tour operators, consolidators (including online travel agencies ), airlines, freight companies, hotels, rental car agencies and other travel industry suppliers. 

If you are a travel advisor, it’s best practice to have an IATA number to make bookings for clients. Again, the ID is part of the legal framework for proper legitimacy, tracking and payments. If you opt to work with a host agency like Fora, an IATA number will be provided to you.

Ultimately, having an IATA number is critical to be successful in the industry. Nearly all hotel groups, cruise lines, rental car companies and many other industry suppliers require an IATA number to disperse commission. 

When did travel agents start using IATA numbers?

The widespread adoption of IATA numbers as a standard, global system by travel agencies began in the late 1950s, just as the travel industry was experiencing rapid growth. 

However, the relationship between IATA and travel agencies goes back a little further. When the airline industry was taking off in the 1920s, it used travel agencies as intermediaries between travelers and the airlines, mostly to distribute tickets. This system worked, but it lacked standardization and required an airline to vet a travel agency repeatedly to ensure smooth financial transactions. 

When IATA launched in 1945, the organization quickly filled a needed role to act as a middleman between the airlines and travel agencies. Critically, airlines no longer needed to constantly reevaluate a given agency if it was IATA accredited. Since then, IATA accreditation has remained the golden standard for airlines — and now other travel companies — to determine if a travel agency is a reliable partner.

Can an independent travel agent / advisor use a host agency’s IATA number?

Absolutely. In fact, this is generally one of the most attractive prospects for working with a travel agent host agency. Obtaining an IATA number as an individual agent is fairly difficult and time-consuming. But working with an accredited host agency is generally the preferred path because your host agency covers the legal framework behind getting an IATA number. This means that as a travel advisor, you can focus more on the core projects related to your role (planning and booking travel).

When you sign up to become a Fora Advisor , you’ll get access to our IATA number so that you can make travel bookings. 

4 benefits of having an IATA number

Here’s a recap of the benefits of having an IATA number.

1. Proves an agency’s qualifications & credibility

First and perhaps most importantly, an IATA number guarantees that a travel agency has been evaluated as a reliable partner for industry suppliers. Without this ID, suppliers — including hotels, cruises and so on — have zero reason to recognize a travel agency’s bookings and are not bound to offer a commission for the agency’s services.

2. Allows an agency to access global booking systems

Beyond establishing an agency’s credibility, an IATA number also grants access to global distribution systems (hotel reservation platforms). If your agency lacks an IATA number, you won’t be able to access these systems to make bookings for clients. 

At Fora, you’ll be able to see all of these rates directly in our booking platform . 

3. Ensures easy dispersal of commissions

Like any form of ID, an IATA number makes the process of paying commissions much smoother. It tells a supplier exactly whom should be paid for making a reservation. 

(P.S. If you’re curious about how travel agent commissions work, check out our guide.)

4. Proves industry regulator compliance

There’s a lot of legal work that goes into obtaining and keeping an IATA number. IATA numbers can be stripped from agencies that work outside of the confines of internationally recognized policies (this ensures the ability to protect a client’s data or secure financial transactions). Working with a host agency that has one means that you’re aligned with an organization that abides by industry protocol.

Of course, each host agency has its own policies, pros and cons, so there is more to consider beyond IATA accreditation.

Become a Fora Advisor and access our IATA number

Ready to start selling travel with an IATA number-wielding host travel agency? Apply to become a Fora Advisor today. 

More IATA number FAQs

Have more questions about IATA numbers and travel agencies? Here are a few FAQ answers.

Recap: do you absolutely need an IATA number to be a travel agent?

To truly maximize your travel business, it is indeed important to have access to an IATA number — whether as an individual agent or through a partnership with a host agency. Otherwise, your travel business will largely be limited to planning itineraries (without bookings). That’s a huge disadvantage, as potential clients will likely seek out travel agents who can plan and book their trips. 

How do you get your own IATA number?

When you work with a host agency, you will have access to their IATA number. This is the path that most independent travel advisors take. At Fora, we provide you with access to our IATA number. 

If you want your own IATA number, you’ll have to apply and prove financial stability, professional competence and the ability to adhere to industry standards. It’s worth noting that it is a very time-intensive process and most independent travel advisors do not take this route.

Are there alternatives to IATA numbers / accreditation?

Technically, yes. But in practice, not really. While other systems exist, they tend to be regional or less widely recognized. Whether you’re looking to book global or domestic travel only, having an IATA number is ideal.

Are there any potential challenges to obtaining an IATA number?

As an independent travel advisor, not particularly. It basically comes down to whether you’re able to find a viable host agency to work with, such as Fora.

As a host agency, it is a time-intensive and paperwork-heavy process. Host agencies apply, and have to prove legitimacy. Potential challenges include financial instability, a lack of operational infrastructure, an inability to comply with industry standards or a failed background check at the agency management level.

Additional resources about becoming a travel advisor

Hear a few of the reasons to become a Fora Advisor from our travel advisors. Or, check out the guides below for more travel advisor resources:

5 Types of Bookings You Can Make as a Fora Advisor (That Aren’t Hotels!)  

Debunking 3 Myths about Becoming a Travel Advisor  

Why Group Bookings Are Great: Tips from an Expert  

How to Become a Cruise Travel Agent (It's Easier Than You Think)  

How Do Travel Agents Get Clients? Fora's Top 5 Tips  

Is Being a Travel Agent Worth It? Fora Discusses the Pros & Cons  

What Does It Take to Become a Travel Agent?  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

We empower anyone with a passion for travel to transform it into meaningful revenue. Sign up to become a travel advisor today.

How To Apply For Your Travel Agency ID Card

If you’re starting a travel agency , you’ll need to get an ID card for your business. This article will show you how to apply for your travel agency ID card.

Determine What Type of Travel Agency ID Card You Need

There are two types of travel agency ID cards: the International Air Transport Association (IATA) card and the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) card. The IATA card is issued by member airlines of the International Air Transport Association and allows travel agents to make reservations and purchase tickets on behalf of their clients. The ARC card is issued by the Airlines Reporting Corporation and allows travel agents to issue tickets on behalf of their clients.

If you need an IATA card, contact an International Air Transport Association member airline and request an application form. Complete the form and submit it along with the required fee. Once your application is approved, you will receive your IATA card.

Contact the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) and request an application form if you need an ARC card. Complete the form and submit it along with the required fee. Once your application is approved, you will receive your ARC card.

Use Your Travel Agency ID Card When Making Reservations for Air Travel

IATA and ARC cards entitle you to certain discounts and privileges. When making reservations, always have your travel agency ID card with you.

Keep Your Travel Agency ID Card Up to Date

You’ll need to renew your IATA card every three years and your ARC card every year. To renew your IATA card, contact an International Air Transport Association member airline and request a renewal application. Contact the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) and request a renewal application to renew your ARC card.

A travel agency ID card is an essential piece of documentation for any business in the travel industry. It allows you to take advantage of various discounts and privileges when making reservations for air travel.

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Designers of dream holidays, high touch service, personalized experiences.

We represent the very best luxury experiences in warm weather destinations around the globe while providing personalized service. Our expertise and relationships fulfill the most ambitious requests. We are committed to educating our team through travel and giving back by providing educational opportunities where we do business.

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Joe Casciola Destinations Travel Advisors “You could not ask for anyone to be more responsive to our request than Yaya. She is quite knowledgeable about the destinations and properties which is beneficial to me. I know we are going to be well taken care of when I put something in Yaya’s inbox! Thank you for the courteous service, prompt attention and laughs!”

Vickie Love Greenlee For Travelers Only “As long as I have been in the travel business, I have never found a partner as valuable as Joel.I could not do my job as effectively with out him. He is knowledgeable about the product, extraordinarily efficient, resourceful and replies promptly. Thank you Joel and Island Destinations for your partnership!”

Marcia Kirsh Travel Experts “It is a pleasure to work with Wendy - she is prompt efficient and anything you ask of her is done quickly and ALWAYS right the first time. She is really a joy to work with and she is always sweet and amicable to any requests I have!”

Roberta Saltzberg Tzell New England “I love booking hotels for clients, but matching the trip with flights on my own, not so much…it’s time consuming, fraught with constant changes and complications. Luckily for me, there is Maria in the ID air department whose proficiency is legendary! Maria is incredibly efficient and accurate, a rare combination for anyone. Most importantly, she always goes that extra mile, finding the lowest fares, the best connections, doing great follow up and tracking, and she does it with aplomb and grace! In a word, Maria del Milagro Lopez is a gem, the Queen of the Air desk!”

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Live Chat with us Monday-Friday 9:00am-7:00pm EST

Welcome to ID! Who do we have the pleasure of chatting with? If you are contacting us about an existing booking, please include the booking number.

Our apologies, our team of Specialists are currently busy assisting other travel advisors. For immediate assistance, please call us at 1-914-833-3300. Alternatively, you can email us at [email protected] , or try your chat again shortly.

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travelbeat 17+

Wojciech leszczynski, designed for iphone, iphone screenshots, description.

The "travelbeat" application is a modern tool designed for travel agencies, which allows clients convenient and intuitive access to their trip program. The app provides a complete travel plan, descriptions of the places visited, a list of essential items to pack, answers to frequently asked questions, and contact with the tour guide, all personalized by the travel agency. Key features and functionalities of the application: 1. Access to the Travel Plan: By entering a unique access code received from the tour organizer, app users can view a detailed travel plan that contains all information about the scheduled itinerary. The application allows access to Google map points with marked places to be visited, making orientation in the field easier. 2. List of Essential Items: To facilitate trip preparations, the app offers a list of necessary items to take on the trip, personalized by the travel agency, with the ability to mark items already packed. 3. FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions: The FAQ section provides answers to typical questions and travel tips, increasing the safety and comfort of users. 4. Messages from the Tour Guide: Users can receive notifications about important events or changes in the plan, ensuring they are always up to date. 5. Contact with the Tour Guide: Any doubts or unforeseen situations can be quickly clarified thanks to direct contact with the guide available directly from the app. 6. Customization to Preferences: The application offers the possibility of personalizing settings to adjust features to the individual needs and preferences of travel agencies. Travel with this application becomes more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.

Version 1.0.15

Added the ability to enlarge photos on the trip main screen

App Privacy

The developer, Wojciech Leszczynski , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Collected

The developer does not collect any data from this app.

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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Total solar eclipse could cause air travel delays: FAA

Air traffic and airports along the eclipse's path may be impacted, the FAA said.

A total solar eclipse set to deliver a stunning display in the sky on April 8 could be trouble for some air travelers and pilots due to possible flight delays, the Federal Aviation Administration warned.

The eclipse -- which will pass over Mexico, the United States and Canada -- is expected to impact air traffic and airports along the eclipse's path from April 7 until April 10, the FAA said in a notice about special air traffic procedures . This could mean delays for air travelers, too -- especially as the eclipse overlaps with spring break travel, the agency said Wednesday.

The FAA estimated that any air travel impacts from the eclipse would be felt from April 7 at 6 a.m. until April 10 at midnight.

"While most travelers are heading to their favorite vacation destinations, a significant number of travelers are heading to various states to witness 'The Great North American Eclipse' on Monday, April 8," the FAA said in a news release.

MORE: Explosive 'devil comet' returns for 1st time in 71 years during April 8 eclipse, NASA says

"Travelers flying along the eclipse path may encounter limited parking and potential delays at airports due to the high volume of aircraft and drones attempting to witness the total solar eclipse," the FAA said.

A total solar eclipse -- which happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun -- is a draw for many people since it can be rare. The last total solar eclipse that was visible in the U.S. took place in 2017, according to NASA.

Many travelers are planning to fly to the states where the eclipse is expected to be most visible: from Texas to New England, the FAA said. Airports in these states will be most affected, the agency said.

"Some are even planning their flights to be airborne during the actual eclipse," FAA Aviation Safety Expert Kevin Morris said.

Air travel to see the eclipse intersects with spring break travel, which the FAA predicted will make next week "the busiest of the season."

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The busiest travel days are expected to be March 28, April 4 and April 5, with more than 50,000 flights expected on several of those days, the FAA said.

The FAA is working to make sure pilots are prepared for the eclipse, too, and are offering guidance to commercial and private pilots that includes anticipating larger-than-normal numbers of aircraft and drones in the area, potential delays and limited parking at some airports.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

"And remember, never look directly at the sun," Morris added.

It's not safe to look directly at the sun during an eclipse without specialized eye protection for solar viewing, NASA says.

Delays and cancellations are low but can happen, the FAA said, reminding travelers to check the status of their flights and get important travel tips on the FAA website before heading to the airport.

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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