What qualifications are required to be a legitimate Travel Agent?

1. 70

   Skylar Springposted 13 years ago

   What qualifications are required to be a legitimate Travel Agent?
   
   Is there a degree or certification required? If so, where can one find schools for the certifications/degree? Where can one look for travel agent jobs? Any information is much appreciated. I'd like to break into the Travel and Tourism field, and researching just keeps bringing me to the same two host agencies.

   replyreport
2. 80

   TToombs08posted 13 years ago

   According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, to be a qualified travel agent in the US, you must have received 'training specific to becoming a travel agent. Many vocational schools offer full-time travel agent programs. Travel agent courses also are offered in public adult education programs, online, and in community colleges. These programs teach students about geography, sales, marketing, and travel industry forms and procedures for ticketing and reservations."
   
   For more information on becoming a trained and certified travel agent, see: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos124.htm
   
   AAA offers an online training program at: http://www.travelagenttrainingcenter.co … stions.htm
   
   I found a whole, long list of travel agent training, both online and live campuses when I searched for "Travel Agent training center."
   
   Good luck!

   replyreport
3. 55

   EricGoodeposted 13 years ago

   You definitely do not have to have a license or meet specific criterion to become a travel agent. States do govern travel agents by forcing travel agents to register through what is called a “Travel Seller’s” registration program, and a majority of states require travel agents to provide cash contributions, bonds, and letters of credit to operate a travel agency within the state. Organizations that offer professional designations for travel agents are The Travel Institute, ASTA, ARC and CLIA.

   replyreport