Frequently Asked Question(s)
Q:What degree do you need to become a travel agent?
A:To become a travel agent, earning a post-secondary degree is not mandatory. You can prepare for this career with a professional diploma. Travel agents are required to have an in-depth understanding of the industry and services being offered. A diploma or short training course in travel planning will equip you with career-oriented knowledge about the field along with professional skills. Although the curriculum of travel planning program may vary from institute to institute, important topics such as booking reservation systems, tourism, and holiday planning are covered. You can also check with your state’s licensing authority to see if professional licensing or certification is mandatory.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:Why become a travel agent?
A:A travel agent career could be a suitable choice if you prefer self-employment and professional freedom. You can choose to work with a travel agency or even work independently. As a self-employed travel agent, you can create your own schedule, design personalized holiday packages for clients, and receive technical assistance from host agencies. The career may also come with benefits such as holiday discounts and commission.
Sources: National Association of Career Travel Agents and O*Net Online
Q:How long does it take to become a travel agent?
A:It can take you 6 to 18 months to become a travel agent. After completing your high school diploma, you can enroll in a travel agent training program. The duration of the training program will depend upon the institute you enroll in. Some training programs can take as little as 6 months to complete while others may take a year or more.
(Source: O*Net Online)
Q:What do travel agents do?
A:Travel agents help clients with planning trips, tours, vacations and arranging transportation. These professionals offer a variety of services which include: arranging flights and accommodation, advising on travel plans and arrangements, using booking systems, developing holiday packages, and helping clients with visa and passport processes.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:After becoming a travel agent, how much will I earn?
A:According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, travel agents made a median annual income of $34,600 in 2012. The exact income level will depend upon various factors such as location, experience, and employer organization. It has been reported that the top 10 percent made a median wage of more than $57,400 while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $19,930.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:To become a travel agent, do I need training?
A:Yes, you must enroll in a travel agent course or training program to become a travel agent. A travel agent course will help you build a strong understanding of the industry and develop career skills. The coursework will cover general areas such as hospitality, air reservations, vacation and tours, and automated airfare and tickets. Some courses will also offer practical training that will help you learn how to use online ticket reservation systems. It is important to remember that the exact curriculum of the program will depend upon the school you enroll in.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:What skills do I need to become travel agent?
A:Travel agents are professionals who provide travel services to individuals. Through formal training, travel agents gain a thorough understanding of the how the industry operates, and develop skills such as the following: communication skills, organizational skills, sales skills, and customer-services skills.
(Source: O*Net Online)
Q:How to become an independent travel agent?
A:To become an independent travel agent, you must have at least a high school degree and some level of formal training. Since the job will require you to perform tasks such as ticket reservation, vacation planning, and hotel reservation, it is important that you take classes in professional travel planning. Once the training is complete, you can join a host agency and launch a career as an independent travel agent and offer travel services to clients. Make sure you choose a host agency that has been accredited by the Airline Reporting Commission (ARC) or the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN).
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Association of Career Travel Agents NACTA)
Q:After becoming travel agent, what duties will I perform on the job?
A:Travel agents are qualified professionals who provide services in travel, holiday planning, hotel reservation, and tour planning. The typical job duties of a travel agent include: planning and arranging tour packages, arranging reservations for hotels, helping clients with the visa process, providing information about travel costs, and booking tickets.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:How to be a travel agent?
A:To work as a travel agent, you must complete the basic educational and training requirements. Although there is no specific requirement to earn a post-secondary degree, it is recommended that you complete a professional travel agent course or training program after high school. A number of vocational schools are offering short courses in this area. Travel agent training programs will equip you with knowledge about reservation systems, tour managing, visa and passport processes, and travel planning. You may also opt for a professional certification to improve your career prospects.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:How do i become a travel agent from home?
A:There are a number of online schools offering short travel agent courses online. Online classes can be easily covered without you having to go anywhere. You must have a high school diploma to qualify for any post-secondary online program. A travel agent course will provide you with knowledge about travelling, tour planning, and ticket reservation systems. After completing training, you can choose to work independently from your home through a host agency or work with a travel agency.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:How can i become a travel agent after high school?
A:There are a number of online schools offering short travel agent courses online. Online classes can be easily covered without you having to go anywhere. You must have a high school diploma to qualify for any post-secondary online program. A travel agent course will provide you with knowledge about travelling, tour planning, and ticket reservation systems. After training, you can choose to work independently from your home through a host agency or work with a travel agency.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Q:Can you tell me how to become a certified travel agent?
A:Before you can qualify for a professional certification, you must acquire formal training and complete a travel agent course. For most certifications, you will need to have work experience in the field as well. The Travel Institute and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) are a few of the leading organizations that offer professional certification in this field. The Certified Travel Associate certification offered by The Travel Institute is awarded to professionals who have at least 18 months of industry experience and have completed the coursework.
(Sources: The Travel Institute and Cruise Lines International Association CLIA)