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Travel Agent Resources

Travel Agent Certification

By Courtney Eisen

January 9, 2024

Are you considering a career in the travel industry and seeking information on travel agent certification? Welcome to LuxRally Travel. We understand that embarking on a new career path can be daunting, so we've compiled a concise guide to help you navigate the process of becoming a legally certified travel agent.

Understanding Travel Agent Certification


Travel agent certifications are typically provided by a host travel agency like ours. There's no need for expensive schooling or hefty fees; we offer free travel agent training. Upon completion, we equip you with all the necessary certifications to sell travel legally.


A host travel agency designs the certification process to ensure you possess adequate knowledge about selling travel and can responsibly use the host agency's credentials. Each host may have a unique certification process, which could include elements such as training, background checks, or other benchmarks.


Suggested Article: How to Become an IATA-Certified Travel Agent


Duration of Travel Agent Certification


Our program is typically completed within one to two weeks. However, the duration varies across different programs. Some institutions might require months of training and studying, but we believe our program equips you adequately to excel in the field.


Distinguishing Between Travel Agent Training and Certification


While training is often part of the certification process with a host travel agency, it's not synonymous with certification. For instance, completing a travel agent course at a local university doesn't automatically make you a fully licensed agent. You would still need to join a host agency and undergo their certification process unless you opt to establish your own host agency. This would involve securing your own seller of travel licenses and accreditations.


Cost of Travel Agent Certification


Our program offers free certification. However, we're aware that some hosts charge up to $6,000 for their training. Regrettably, a high price tag doesn't always guarantee quality. We strongly advise thorough research before signing contracts or making payments. Many host agencies profit from enrolling new agents but offer minimal support in making actual sales. Certification through various host agency programs doesn't necessarily equip you with the skills to acquire clients or close deals.


Suggested Article: How Much Does Travel Agent Training Cost? LuxRally Travel vs. Traditional Host Agencies


Can Any Host Travel Agency Provide Travel Agent Certification?


Yes, any reputable host agency should provide travel agent certification. However, it's crucial to ensure that the host agency is properly licensed. For instance, if you join a host agency without seller of travel licenses in California, Florida, Washington State, and Hawaii, you could be held liable for illegally selling travel in those states. If your host agency loses its IATA accreditation, you may be ineligible to receive commission made through their IATA. You can verify your host agency's standing by requesting this licensing information and independently verifying it.


Suggested Article: How to Select the Best Host Travel Agency for Your Business


Are There Other Types of Travel Agent Certifications?


Indeed, once you become a travel agent, you can pursue certifications from vendors specializing in a single brand or location. Many cruise lines, for example, offer certifications like the Virgin Voyages First Mates program. These certifications not only enhance your expertise in specific travel products but often unlock exclusive benefits and resources.


Ready to Obtain Your Travel Agent Certification?


Apply to our free travel agent training program and embark on your journey towards receiving your travel agent certification. Upon graduation, you will be fully licensed to sell travel under our host agency. In addition to certification, we provide training on booking tools, sales tactics, and other vital topics to ensure you're ready to start making sales. We cover your errors and omission insurance, licensing, and provide 24/7 support to our agents. Our success is tied to yours; hence, we are fully invested in your achievement.

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