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How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana

Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Everyone thought that 2020 brought an end to tourism, but things have changed.

While regulations change, there might be a greater need for travel agents at least in Louisiana .

Read this article to learn what you need to do in case you consider a new career as a travel agent!

Travel Agent Job Description and Duties in Louisiana

Usually, travel agents are in charge of arranging for their clients, the following:

  • Transportation
  • Accommodation
  • Entertainment

They can’t do any of that without first completing these tasks:

  • Reviewing visas, vaccinations, and other travel necessities
  • Understanding the needs and desires of their clients
  • Keeping accurate records
  • Finding solutions to issues and emergencies
  • Handling payments and deposits
  • Promoting the various packages resorts, hotels, and cruise companies offer
  • Negotiating with hotels, resorts, cruise companies, and more

Their job would be even easier if they considered becoming more familiar with at least two of these areas of interest:

  • Family-oriented

Taking care of additional tasks and traveling from time to time will be common occurrences for these professionals.

Requirements to be a Travel Agent in Louisiana

The job of a travel agent can also be made easier with a certain set of abilities.

Generally, these are:

  • Good communication skills
  • Good management skills
  • Able to use various computer programs
  • Good problem-solving skills
  • Great marketing skills
  • Able to work full-time
  • Detail-oriented
  • Being confident
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Having a clean criminal record
  • Being honest
  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Speaking a foreign language
  • Liking and having the ability to travel

Not many employers ask for experience in the field, but this can be obtained.

The most common way to become more familiar with the tourist industry is by working other jobs in this field.

Education and Certification for a Travel Agent in Louisiana

To become a travel agent, you should get some formal education.

This will help you develop the skills you don’t have and teach you how many job tasks should be completed.

Louisiana doesn’t have many schools to offer tourism programs, but the existing ones can be seen below.

Top 7 Schools in Louisiana

Some of these schools offer programs for distance or online learning while others just for courses in a classroom.

A high school diploma or a GED is required by all those institutions, for those who want to enroll.

These are the main classes you’ll attend:

  • Introduction to the travel industry
  • Professional Skills
  • Basic/International geography
  • Destination geography
  • Introduction to international travel
  • Introduction to air travel
  • Career development
  • Sales and marketing for travel

Travel Agent Salary and Employment in Louisiana

The main benefit of being a travel agent is the possibility of frequent travel.

This helps the professional to be always informed of any possible changes.

Furthermore, some institutions prefer to negotiate terms and packages face-to-face.

These agents usually work for tourism agencies, though working on their own is also possible.

For this, additional licenses will be needed.

Your salary will be influenced by a series of factors, including your type of employment, experience, and location.

In cities like Metairie , New Orleans , and Kenner , average salaries are higher than the state’s median of $36,774 per year.

Average Salary of Travel Agents in Louisiana

Regional salary, additional information for travel agents in louisiana.

If you obtain a license to run a business of your own, you might have to ensure it’s always current.

Most agents are part of various associations that help them create more connections and thus improve their careers.

Travel Agent State-specific Information:

2 comments on louisiana.

I’ve always dreamt of turning my passion for travel into a career, and this guide provided such clear steps to make it happen, especially tailored for Louisiana.

This guide’s emphasis on leveraging Louisiana’s unique cultural heritage to offer specialized travel experiences is spot on.

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How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana

Home / Travel Agent / How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana

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How To Become A Travel Agent In Louisiana

Travel agent duties in louisiana, licensing requirements to become a travel agent in louisiana, about the school, about the program , travel agent representative schools in louisiana – summary table, regional salary in louisiana, are some advantages to being a travel agent in louisiana, what are some disadvantages of being a travel agent in louisiana, is it easy to start your own business in louisiana, travel agent info by state.

Louisiana is a busy state when it comes to tourism.

Millions of people visit New Orleans every year, alone.

Visitors also flock to Baton Rouge and surrounding areas to tour cemeteries, swamps, plantations, and try the delectable Cajun cuisine.

With so many folks clamoring for places to stay, things to do, and eat, this is good news for travel agents in the state.

Travel agents are the people we can trust to plan everything we need in a trip, from where to stay, to how to get around.

A travel agent will take care of all the pesky details, so travelers can just worry about if they’re going to have gumbo or Jambalaya for dinner.

Travel agents must be great communicators, patient as all get out, well organized, have good computer skills, and good with geography and current world events (you don’t want to send your clients to a place that’s experiencing a natural disaster or a military conflict).

Being a travel agent is a great job for a parent, college student, or anyone looking for flexible hours.

Keep reading to find out more about being a travel agent in Louisiana.

In Louisiana, and elsewhere, a travel agent basically takes care of the client’s entire travel itinerary from beginning to end.

They sit with the clients and go over likes and dislikes, destinations (if they aren’t sure), and budgets. 

From there, the agent will take care of all transportation, accommodation, plan activities, make sure all travelers have proper credentials and vaccines, collect payments and pay off airfare, hotels, etc.

They need to keep up to date about any changes to the plans, dove problems for the client as they arise, and provide the best price possible by negotiating with airlines, hotels, etc.

The state of Louisiana does not require a license to be a travel agent.

However, you must be at least 18 and have a high school diploma.

It is strongly recommended that you attend classes in tourism and/or hospitality, so you are knowledgeable enough to perform the job duties.

Travel Agent Program In Louisiana

University of louisiana.

The University of Louisiana was established in 1898 and is a leading public research college.

The school offers over 240 majors and minors, many of them can be taken online.

The campus itself it is beautiful and in the heart of Louisiana.

The school focuses on celebrating its unique culture and history, while welcoming everyone to learn and grow.

The University offers a tourism and hospitality program that can lead to either a four-year degree or a training program that can be done online and leads to a certificate.

The online course is more geared toward people wishing to become travel agents and takes only 6 months to complete.

Topics of instruction will include an overview of the travel industry, several units of geography and world culture, transportation modes, international and domestic travel, management and marketing skills, computer programs, and interpersonal skills.

Please contact the school for current tuition costs.

Address : 104 E. University Ave.

Lafayette, Louisiana 70504

Phone : (337)4821000

Website :  https://louisiana.edu

Salary For Travel Agents In Louisiana

Travel agents in Louisiana average about $39,440 per year.

They tend to make more in larger cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette.

The ability to make more money also depends on experience, education, and specialty.

For example, focusing on luxury and business travel will probably make you more than planning a Disney vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aside from the general benefits of job flexibility, being your own boss, and meeting new people, there are a few added bonuses.

One biggie is that you get great discounts on hotels and activities in New Orleans.

So if you want to plan a friends trip or couples getaway to The Big Easy for yourself, it’s totally affordable.

Being a travel agent is demanding and time-consuming no matter where you are in the world.

In Louisiana, this can be even more true when people travel in droves to places like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and other popular tourist destinations.

Yes and No.

While the start-up costs are low, (you can work from home at the beginning) and you don’t need a ton of certifications, it is extremely time-consuming and won’t happen overnight.

You must have a strong resolve and not give up.

You’ll need to market yourself and develop a good website and strong social media presence.

Once you start attracting customers, things will pick up.

Many will recommend you if they were happy with your service.

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louisiana travel agent requirements

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

louisiana travel agent requirements

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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  • Seller of Travel Laws and Licensure: What Travel Agents Need to Know
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louisiana travel agent requirements

There are three kinds of state laws  that directly affect travel agencies.  No matter what business model your agency follows –  independent , hosted or some hybrid of the two, it’s critical that you understand the laws and regulations that govern travel sellers. Most are set at the state level and vary depending on what state or even country you operate in. In some cases, a host agency will either manage this on your behalf or extend licensure to you at a discounted rate, but again it’s a critical piece of any travel business!

State Law #1

Seller of Travel Laws, which require travel agencies to register, regulate sales by travel agencies, and usually require financial protections for consumers.

Seller of travel laws state map

The five states with such laws are as follows:

  • California Seller of Travel
  • Florida Seller of Travel
  • Hawaii Seller of Travel
  • Iowa Seller of Travel
  • Washington Seller of Travel

If you happen to be located in any of the above states OR if you are planning to sell to the residents of these states, we highly recommend that you look into their requirements. The California Seller of Travel law is by far the most strict and complex. If you are an independent contractor and are wondering what is required to be exempt in the State of California, travel attorney Mark Pestronk gives some details on what it takes  here.

Nevada, Oregon, Ohio, and Rhode Island used to have such laws, but they were repealed. For more information on these five states, check out this great  Travel Weekly article on Seller of Travel laws by Mark Pestronk.

State Law #2

The second type of state law doesn’t require any registration, but it does regulate sales, mainly by requiring certain disclosures and refund obligations. Those states include Illinois, Massachusetts, and New York.

State Law #3

The third type of state law simply requires travel agencies to register and pay a fee for a specific occupational or professional license. Those states are Delaware and Louisiana. New agencies in Delaware are required to register for an occupational license  (scroll to No. 24) . However, you only need this if you actually open a travel agency in Delaware (not if you are just planning to sell to Delaware residents).

Helpful Links

  • Florida Seller of Travel License Application
  • Iowa Seller of Travel License Application
  • Hawaii Seller of Travel License Application
  • California Seller of Travel License Application
  • Washington Seller of Travel License Application

If you’re starting a travel agency in one of the above states, the next thing you’ll need to do after completing your application is get your agency accredited with  TRUE , ARC, or IATA.  Getting accredited will get you recognized as a legitimate travel professional and allow you to earn commission with suppliers.

Ready to get your Travel Agency Accreditation?  Talk with an expert for free today !

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Hi Holly, I am considering taking on a travel agent in Arizona under my True Agency in California. Do I need to apply for a seller of travel in Arizona like I did in California? Thanks, Terezinha

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Hi Terezinha,

Apologies for the late reply. Fortunately, AZ does not require a Seller of Travel Licenses so there is no need. Your AZ agent will be covered under your California licenses when she is booking travel.

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Home » Locations » Louisiana Trade Schools » Travel Agent

Travel Agent in LA

How to become a travel agent in louisiana.

For those seeking an outstanding career option for outgoing individuals, becoming a travel agent offers the chance to turn social charisma into unforgettable journeys.

Travel agents, armed with thorough knowledge of destinations and valuable global connections, work to curate seamless adventures all around the world.

Becoming a travel agent means transforming a passion for exploration into a career, crafting dream vacations while making clients’ globe-trotting dreams come true.

Education & Training

Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

How Long Does It Take?

Fully online courses, such as the ones above, take about 6 months.  Other courses in travel agent training can take approximately 12 to 15 months, though this depends largely on specific education pathways and individual needs.

For those looking to earn an associate’s degree in the travel agent field, for example, education time can be as long as 2 years. However, many schools also offer expedited programs, which would take as little as 6 to 9 months.

How Much Does It Cost?

Cost again largely depends on individual needs and specific pathways, however the average training program for travel agents ranges from around $1000 – $3000. This price is much higher, however, for those who choose to obtain an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field at most Louisiana colleges would likely pay $10,000 – $15,000 or more.

What Do You Study?

Training programs for travel agents will typically cover the following topics:

  • Calculating costs: learning to apply knowledge of travel costs, fees, taxes, and discounts, and how to accurately calculate total costs of accommodations for clients.
  • Booking travel and accommodations: understanding how to prepare and request transportation carrier tickets, hotel reservations, and book experiences for clients.
  • Geographical expertise: utilizing physical and cultural geography knowledge in travel and tourism and enhancing clients’ experiences by offering insights into unique features of destinations.
  • Comparing options: analyzing and comparing accommodations, tickets, itineraries, and travel packages, and determining the best-suited options for clients based on their personal preferences and needs.

Benefits of Taking the Course

To become a travel agent in Louisiana, it is highly recommended that you earn at least one of many possible certifications in the travel agent field. These include the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) certification, the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) exam, and the Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) certification, among many more. While not legally required, earning these certifications provides a competitive edge for any prospective travel agent.

While not obligatory, enrolling in a travel agent course significantly elevates your expertise and readiness, particularly for those seeking to earn certifications. Furthermore, it can provide priceless connections and insider knowledge, both of which are particularly important as a result of how connection-based the field is.

Employers in travel agencies also seek thoroughly educated applicants, so for those looking to get a head start in the field, taking a course is strongly recommended.

How Much Can You Make?

In Louisiana, average salaries for travel agents range from around $35,000 to $60,000 yearly, with a national average hourly wage of $22.31, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Self-employed travel agents can also earn up to approximately $70,000.

Below are the average salaries for travel agents in major Louisiana cities:

  • New Orleans : $39,740 or $13.05/hour
  • Baton Rouge: $45,800 or $15.06/hour
  • Lafayette: $61,000 or $20.20/hour
  • Shreveport: $61,200 or $20.13/hour
  • Lake Charles: $61,700 or $20.28/hour

Louisiana travel agent salaries are significantly higher than most other states across the US, making the career highly attractive for those interested.

Career Path

Though there are no state-required licenses or certifications for prospective travel agents in Louisiana, obtaining one or more relevant certifications is highly encouraged, both for the purposes of developing essential skills in the field and gaining employment. Becoming licensed also offers opportunities for specialization, for example to focus on specific travel types like cruises or particular destinations.

State License or Certification

All prospective travel agents must have obtained a high school degree or GED equivalent, in addition to receiving any on-the-job training for specific agencies. The state of Louisiana offers a total of four main certifications for travel agents: the Certified Travel Agent (CTA) certification, Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) certification, Certified Travel Industry Expert (CTIE) certification, and the Certified Travel Specialist (CTS) certification.

Many of these certification and training programs work with the state’s tourism and travel associations to further aid applicants seeking employment.

For those looking to specialize in particular fields of travel, certifications like the Cruise Line Industry Association certifications offer even more in terms of credentials and potential employment.

Entry Level Job Description

As an entry-level travel agent, your responsibilities will largely include assisting clients in selecting travel destinations, booking flights, accommodations, and transportation, while considering their preferences and budgets. You will learn to navigate booking systems, likely through employer-specific training, research travel options, and provide valuable insights on local attractions and cultural nuances.

This can also include working with industry connections to arrange experiences like guided tours and activities for clients.

Skillsets or Requirements

Details of what specific employers require may vary, but essential skills and requirements for travel agents will always include the following:

  • Communication skills: effectively conveying travel options, itineraries, and essential details.
  • Adaptability: flexibility in catering to client preferences and changing travel dynamics.
  • Customer focus: understanding and meeting client needs while continuing to deliver outstanding service.
  • Destination knowledge: thorough understanding of diverse locations and cultural insights.
  • Booking proficiency : being able to navigate potentially complicated booking systems for accommodations, transportation, and activities.

Career Outlook

Pros & cons of the travel agent field.

Overall, the travel agent field offers an exciting avenue for individuals with a passion for exploration and customer service. Benefits of the career include the opportunity to turn knowledge of the world and popular destinations into a rewarding career, crafting unforgettable journeys for clients. The job involves continuous learning about global locations, fostering cultural awareness, and building a network within the travel industry.

However, challenges can arise from the continuous evolution of online booking systems and self-service options, requiring agents to continually prove their value. The workload can be demanding, especially during peak travel seasons, and staying updated with ever-changing travel regulations is essential. Success in the field requires a balance of creativity, organization, and adaptability.

Is it a good career?

Becoming a travel agent can be an incredibly fulfilling career choice.

The career offers a wide range of job specialization opportunities for those looking to advance from entry-level positions, from crafting unique itineraries for niche markets like adventure travel or luxury vacations to focusing on corporate travel management.

Moreover, self-employment as an independent travel consultant is highly viable, allowing for highly flexible work arrangements. With dedication and ongoing learning, as well as building a loyal clientele, travel agents can easily achieve success in the field.

Career Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected growth for travel agents is significantly above the national average – estimated at 20% for 2021-31. Around 7,500 position openings are expected yearly over the next decade.Furthermore, with technology and online booking systems continuing to advance, the need for personalized expertise and curated experiences beyond what self-service options can offer ensures a place for skilled travel agents in the workforce.

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Travel Agent License by State

Interested in travel? Become a travel agent in your home state.

Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Travel Agent License by State

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If you want to become a travel agent, in this section you will find out more information about this career path and the licensing regulations that govern this profession.

What Does a Travel Agent Do?

Travel agents sell trip-related services and products to individuals or groups.

A travel agent may offer advice on destinations, help clients plan itineraries, and make other travel arrangements regarding transportation, lodging, and entertainment activities.

Before making recommendations to clients, travel agents may visit hotels and resorts to assess the comfort level and the overall quality of service provided by that establishment.

Some travel agents specialize, depending on the type of clients they interact with.

For example, leisure travel agents sell vacation packages while corporate travel agents make arrangements for business trips.

Travel Agent Salary

Because usually, travel agents earn a combination of salary plus commission, total earnings depend on the number of travel packages sold.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage reported by employees in this line of work was $42,350, but salaries range between less than $26,000 and more than $73,000 annually.

These numbers include commissions.

Salaries also vary depending on the state of employment and the local economy.

The top-paying state for workers in this field in 2020 was Washington, where the median annual wage reported by travel agents was $62,040.

Median salaries above the $50,000 threshold were also reported in Arizona, the District of Columbia, California, and Massachusetts.

Travel agents in New Mexico, on the other hand, were remunerated only $32,510 per year, on average.

Work Opportunities for Travel Agents

You can become a travel agent after finishing high school if you apply for an opening at a travel agency.

Taking some travel and hospitality-related courses at a community college will help you learn more about this business.

Having a degree will also improve your chances of getting a good job.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020 approximately 14 percent of all travel agents in the United States were self-employed.

Companies in the travel arrangement and reservation services field hired about 72 percent of all travel agents.

Job Prospects

This profession will grow 5 percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

This will result in approximately 7,500 openings each year over the decade.

Most of this growth will occur when the nation recovers from the COVID-19 recession.

Travel agents who know how to communicate with their clients and are able to recommend personalized travel experiences will have the best prospects.

The ability to use online resources when researching and booking trips is another very valued skill in this line of work.

Education and Licensing Requirements

If you want to become a travel agent in the United States, there is no specific testing, licensing, or training requirements that are applicable at a national level.

However, some states that have their own licensing requirements.

These vary, depending on the state where you wish to sell travel, the type of business you wish to conduct, and other factors.

In the next sections, we will take a closer look at the path towards a career as a travel agent.

Education Requirements

Most employers require a high school diploma for all travel agent positions but some prefer candidates who also have sales experience or a relevant certification or education.

Technical training programs for travel agents are available at many community colleges and vocational schools and usually last less than two years.

If you want a Bachelor’s degree there are also four-year programs in travel and tourism available at many colleges.

Post-secondary programs usually cover topics such as reservation systems, regulations, and marketing classes.

Those who have no relevant experience or training can prove their skills by taking the Travel Agency Proficiency test administered by The Travel Institute.

The Travel Institute is a non-profit organization that offers career training courses, certification, travel industry specialization training programs, and access to an extensive resource library.

You can become a member by paying a monthly or annual fee.

If you want to learn the basics of this business, the Institute offers a Travel Introductory Program.

This program teaches students about five core travel products, workplace orientation, and marketing strategies.

Once you feel ready you can apply for certification.

There are three certification levels available:

  • Certified Travel Associate
  • Certified Travel Counselor
  • Certified Travel Industry Executive

Each one of these products costs $550.

Credentialing and educational programs are also offered by the American Society of Travel Advisors and the Cruise Lines International Association.

Most employers train their newly-hired travel agents on the job.

This training period focuses mostly on the airline and hotel booking applications that are used within the company.

Licensing Requirements by State

As mentioned above there are no national licensing requirements that govern this line of work.

However, California, Hawaii, Florida, Iowa, and Washington have extraterritorial laws that apply to travel agents.

This means that these regulations apply to all those who sell travel packages in these states, regardless of their state of residence.

It is important to know the regulations that apply in each state because if you fail to comply, this may lead to penalties.

Licensing Requirements in California

If you want to sell or distribute travel products or services in the state of California, you have to become a registered Seller of Travel.

In California, a travel agent is defined as a person or business who sells, arranges, or advises that they can sell:

  • flight or cruises or
  • land or water transportation that exceeds $300 in value.

The two registration programs that apply to travel agents in the state of California are:

  • Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation
  • California Seller of Travel Program

The Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation applies to those who handle customer funds.

The California Seller of Travel Program is endorsed by the California Attorney General and is enforced to all travel agencies who sell travel in California.

All travel agencies that conduct business in California are required to display their California Seller of Travel number on any advertising materials that promote travel products and services.

There are a few steps you need to complete before becoming a licensed travel agent in the state of California:

Complete a California Seller of Travel Registration Application – a form that can be found online.

Obtain one for the following:

  • A trust account
  • A California Seller of Travel Bond
  • A Consumer Protection Deposit Plan through the United States Tour Operators Association

Travel customers usually pay upfront for certain travel packages.

A safety net is needed to protect customers if their money is mishandled.

According to California law, you are not allowed to spend your clients’ money on expenses such as salaries unless you have a surety bond in place.

Pay the registration fee.

In some situations, travel agents have to participate in the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund.

Submit your application packet to the Office of the Attorney General.

The application packet may also be sent via email or fax.

The cost to register as a California travel agent is $100 per location.

Afterward completing all these steps, you will receive your California Seller of Travel Certificate in the mail in 1-3 weeks.

Hawaii Requirements

If you want to sell travel products and services in the state of Hawaii, you must get a registration from the Hawaii Travel Agent Licensing Program.

All travel agencies in Hawaii have to re-register at the end of each odd-numbered year.

The bi-annual registration fee is $140.

Travel agents who reside in another state also have to apply for a Certificate of Authority, which means they have to pay a registration cost of $25 per year.

Licensing Requirements in Florida

Florida requires a bond of $50,000 if you want to sell vacation certifications and a $25,000 bond if you don’t plan on selling certificates.

Travel agents don’t need to have this sum upfront, but they have to pay a yearly premium bond.

Depending on the agent’s qualifications, this translates into between 1-10% of the total value of the bond.

Anyone who wants to sell travel products and services in Florida needs to register with the Department of Agriculture of Consumer Affairs.

Licensing Requirement in Iowa

The Department of Economic Development is the registering agency for travel agents in Iowa.

Those seeking to become licensed need to purchase a $10,000 bond, which means they have to pay between 1-3% of the bond value.

Requirements for Washington Travel Agents

Washington is another state that requires all travel agents to hold a license.

This means that you will have to spend a few hundred dollars in application and state fees, depending on your business structure.

Earning a license to sell travel is not always an easy task.

However, it is far easier than paying a fine or receiving a cease and desist letter.

Having a license will also increase the comfort of your clients and will prove that you are a trustworthy individual/agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a license to sell travel products in the united states.

There are no national license requirements for travel agents.

However, you will need a license to sell travel services or products in California, Florida, Iowa, Hawaii, or Washington.

Licensing requirements vary by state, but you will need to undergo a registration process to sell travel in the states listed above, regardless of your state of residence.

How Much Does This Registration Process Cost?

Total registration costs vary depending on the state where you want to sell travel.

California, for example, charges a registration fee of $100 per travel destination, which means that you will have to pay $500 if you want to sell travel packages to five Californian destinations.

A surety bond is also required to protect your clients in case their money is mishandled.

Are There Any Education Requirements for Travel Agents in the United States?

There are no specific education requirements for travel agents and usually, you can start a career in this field with only a high school diploma.

However, there are agencies that prefer applicants who have proven sales and/or marketing experience.

One way to compensate for your lack of experience is by attending a hospitality or tourism program at a community college or technical school.

What Type of Courses Can Prepare Me For a Career As a Travel Agent?

Travel agent training usually covers topics such as reservation systems, marketing, and regulations.

Many employers train their newly-hired travel agents on the job.

This training period focuses mostly on the booking and reservation software used in that specific agency.

Not Interested in Travel Agent License?

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IMAGES

  1. How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana (Licensing Info.)

    louisiana travel agent requirements

  2. What Are The Duties And Responsibilities Of A Travel Agent

    louisiana travel agent requirements

  3. Travel Agent Requirements

    louisiana travel agent requirements

  4. Travel Agent Requirements

    louisiana travel agent requirements

  5. The Complete Guide to Registered Agent Requirements By State

    louisiana travel agent requirements

  6. Travel Agent Requirements

    louisiana travel agent requirements

COMMENTS

  1. How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana

    Licensing Requirements to Become A Louisiana Travel Agent. You must obtain your high school diploma, and you need to take the Travel Agent Proficiency test. ... As a Louisiana travel agent, you can expect to get paid between $33,764-$43,158. The average salary totals approximately $37,058 by the last quarter of 2021. Annual Salary Range:

  2. Getting Your Louisiana Travel Agent License

    How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana. Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information. Everyone thought that 2020 brought an end to tourism, but things have changed. While regulations change, there might be a greater need for travel agents at least in Louisiana.

  3. Office of State Travel

    The Office of State Travel is responsible for setting Louisiana's general travel regulations, known as Policy and Procedure Memorandum 49 (PPM49). ... Its responsibility is to educate agency program administrators and manage both programs to ensure success. State Travel Program Managers. Brenda Myers, State Travel Manager

  4. How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana

    Licensing Requirements To Become A Travel Agent In Louisiana. The state of Louisiana does not require a license to be a travel agent. However, you must be at least 18 and have a high school diploma. It is strongly recommended that you attend classes in tourism and/or hospitality, so you are knowledgeable enough to perform the job duties.

  5. An Overview On Travel Agent Licensing Requirements In The USA and

    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. ... When it comes to Seller Of Travel licensing requirements, Louisiana and Delaware are hardly mentioned. It is the ...

  6. How To Become A Travel Agent In Louisiana

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  7. License Application

    Effective August 1, 2021, Act 402 of 2021 Regular Session of the Louisiana State Legislature set forth certain standards of conduct for claims adjusters to adhere to when adjusting Louisiana claims. Act 402 also requires that a licensed claims adjuster acknowledge that they have read the standards of conduct upon license issuance and at each ...

  8. Seller of Travel Laws and Licensure: What Travel Agents Need to Know

    The third type of state law simply requires travel agencies to register and pay a fee for a specific occupational or professional license. Those states are Delaware and Louisiana. New agencies in Delaware are required to register for an occupational license (scroll to No. 24). However, you only need this if you actually open a travel agency in ...

  9. How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana

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  10. Travel Agent License Requirements by State (Become a Travel Agent in...)

    Hawaii Requirements. If you want to sell travel products and services in the state of Hawaii, you must get a registration from the Hawaii Travel Agent Licensing Program. All travel agencies in Hawaii have to re-register at the end of each odd-numbered year. The bi-annual registration fee is $140.

  11. PDF louisiana travel guide 2021-2022

    Travel Routes - The most direct traveled route must be used by official state travelers. Travel Scholarships - If any type of scholarship for travel is offered/received by a state traveler, it is the agency/employee's responsibility to receive/comply with all ethic laws/requirements. See R.S. 42:1123

  12. PDF Office of State Travel

    Seat upgrades, business class, or first class are not to be paid by the agency. Christopherson Business Travel. Online Booking Fee - $7 / Agent Booking Fee - $24. Employees must verify their profiles before booking flights with Christopherson. Employees must verify the agency field is correct and all information on the profile is complete and ...

  13. La. Admin. Code tit. 4 § V-1504

    Each agency is responsible in ensuring that this along with any other necessary documents and requirements are completed and made part of the travel file prior to travel dates. 5. Students not employed by the state shall not be authorized to drive state-owned or rented vehicles for use on official state business.

  14. Travel Agency

    Louisiana Property Assistance Agency; Louisiana Federal Property Assistance Agency; Office of Group Benefits; Internal Audit. Staff Directory; COSAG; Interim Emergency Board. Fiscal Agents; Forms; ... Travel Agency Contacts: CHRISTOPHERSON BUSINESS TRAVEL. 5588 S. Green Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84123. CHRISTOPHERSON'S TRAVEL ADVISOR TEAM

  15. Travel Law FAQ

    Travel Law describes the nexus of federal, state, common law and international laws that regulate the day-to-day workings of the travel industry. The need for a body of law specific to the travel industry became evident with the deregulation of the travel industry that occurred in the 1970s. When the federally-mandated deregulation process was ...

  16. Policies and Forms

    General. OTS-11: Telecommunications Coordinator Appointment/Update Form (Rev. 01/2024); OTS-15: Trouble Reporting Information Form (Rev. 01/2024); OTS-16: Network Services/Telecommunications Project Request Form

  17. Travel Agents in Louisiana

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  18. PDF Louisiana Travel Guide 2019-2020

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  19. PDF State of Louisiana

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  20. Louisiana Travel Agent Agreement

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  21. PDF Louisiana Travel Policy 2022-2023

    Office of State Travel Travel.LA.Gov Purpose: This Travel Guide is to provide guidelines and establish procedures for individuals incurring business travel expenses on the State's behalf. Objective: Ensure all travelers have a clear and consistent understanding of policies and procedures for business travel. Provide State Travelers with a reasonable level of service, comfort, and safety at ...

  22. IATA

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  23. PDF Louisiana Travel Guide 2020-2021

    Travel Routes - The most direct traveled route must be used by official state travelers. Travel Scholarships - If any type of scholarship for travel is offered/received by a state traveler, it is the agency/employee's responsibility to receive/comply with all ethic laws/requirements. See R.S. 42:1123