Starting a travel agency can be a lucrative business venture, but it’s important to make sure you are properly licensed and registered with the appropriate governing body. This article will outline the steps necessary to get your travel agency up and running. So whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to expand your operations, read on to find out how to get your travel agency licensed.
Travel Agency Regulations
A travel agency licensing body is an organization that sets the standards for how travel agencies operate. They regulate things like how much money a travel agency can charge for their services, what type of services they can offer, and how they can advertise their business. In order to get your travel agency licensed, you will need to meet the requirements set out by the regulating body in your jurisdiction.
You can find the right licensing body for your travel agency by doing a search online or contacting your local Chamber of Commerce. For example, in the United States, travel agents must register with the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General. Once you have gathered the necessary information and documents, you will need to submit an application and pay the required fees.
Travel Agency License Requirements
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must have a high school diploma or equivalent
- You must have completed the mandatory training session
- You must pass the exam
Documents Needed
- Your high school diploma or equivalent
- Your travel agent license
- A completed application form
- The fee for the license
4 Steps to an Agency License
Step 1
Choose the right licensing body for your travel agency by doing a search online or contacting your local Chamber of Commerce. For example, in the United States, travel agents must register with the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General.
Step 2
Submit an application and pay the required fees. The cost of getting a travel agency license will vary depending on the governing body you register with. However, most licenses will cost between $100 and $200. It usually takes between 4 and 6 weeks to get a travel agency license.
Other costs may be associated with getting your travel agency licensed, such as mandatory training or exam fees. Be sure to contact the licensing body for more information about the specific requirements and costs.
Step 3
Complete the mandatory training session. Many licensing bodies require travel agents to complete a certain amount of training before they can be licensed. The length and type of training will vary depending on the governing body you register with.
For example, in the United States, the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General requires travel agents to complete a four-hour training course on how to comply with the regulations set out by the department.
Step 4
Pass the exam. The written test deals with topics such as customer service, safety, and security. The exam’s format and substance will vary depending on the licensing body you join. After you have passed the exam, the licensing body will issue your travel agent license.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to get your travel agency licensed, it’s time to get started on your application. Be sure to gather all the necessary documents and contact the appropriate licensing body for more information about specific requirements. It usually takes 4-6 weeks to get a travel agent license, so start now and you can be up and running in no time!