The travel business is booming in 2025, and it has never been easier to become a travel agent. If you would like to work from home, concentrate on retirement, or have a small business, the need for travel consultants is booming.
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As travelers want more customized services and professional planning for challenging itineraries, travel agents are back in style. From luxury cruise ships to group tours, travelers are turning more and more to detail-oriented professionals.
This manual will instruct you on how to become a US travel agent, including steps, certifications, business models, equipment, and possible income.
Is Being a Travel Agent Worth It?
Yes. Working as a travel agent in 2025 is like a great idea, particularly if you are a travel enthusiast and have sales or customer service skills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage is $48,450, but most agents make more selling exclusive or group packages.
Indeed, travel agents and freelancers selling travel products (like cruises, luxury travel, or destination wedding planning) may earn up to six figures. Travel agents also get benefits such as flexible work schedules, discounted travel, and prebooked tours (FAM) to key destinations.
Types of Travel Agents: Choose Your Path
Before embarking on your career, select an appropriate business model. There are three main options:
1. Join a Host Agency
This is the most common path for in-house or remote agents. An escort agency is an organized travel agency that provides you with industry insight, booking tools, and supplier relationships. You sell under them, often paying an upfront fee, and split the commission.
Pros:
- Low upfront cost
- Access to industry tools and rates
- Support, training, and mentorship
- Great for beginners
2. Buy into a Franchise
Franchises such as Cruise Planners or Dream Vacations give you more structure and branding. You’ll pay more in start-up fees (usually $10,000 or more), but you have a business model with on-going support, marketing, and brand name.
Pros:
- Recognizable brand
- Extensive training
- Business support systems
Cons:
- Higher startup cost
- Monthly fees
3. Become Fully Independent
You can operate the business entirely on your own, keeping your own travel accreditations (like IATA or ARC), dealing with suppliers, and building your own business structure.
Pros:
- Total control over your business
- Retain 100% of the commission
Cons:
- High set-up fees and administrative charges
- Additional effort to enhance reliability and systems
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Travel Agent
Step 1: Gain Basic Education and Skills
You do not necessarily have to be college-educated, but you must have a high school diploma. Good communication skills, customer service, and sales skill are a must.
Step 2: Take Travel Agent Training
Though not mandatory, most new agents take training in order to be credible. Travel Institute, ASTA, and other sources might offer the training.
Popular options:
- Certified Travel Associate (CTA)
- Certified Travel Counselor (CTC)
- Verified Travel Advisor (VTA)
The cost of these programs is $400-$600 and teach you good fundamentals in planning, geography, and customer service.
Step 3: Select a Business Model
Determine whether to affiliate with a hosted agency, purchase a franchise, or become independent. Compare start-up fees, splits, back-end support, and licenses necessary.
Step 4: Register Your Business
Should you wish to conduct business as an independent contractor or small enterprise, you’ll be required to reserve your company name (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.) and procure an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS.
If you reside in California, Florida, Hawaii, or Washington, D.C. If you sell to customers in the United States, you must register as a transient seller and pay a nominal fee.
Step 5: Obtain Travel Credentials
Referrals are not required by law, but they can help you book directly with suppliers and earn more commission. The main options are:
| Credential | Cost | Purpose |
| Seller of Travel License | $0–$500 | Required for selling in CA, FL, HI, or WA |
| CLIA (Cruise Lines Int’l) | $139/year | Cruise training, perks, and discounts |
| IATA/ARC Accreditation | $247 + $103/yr | Required to issue airline tickets |
| TIDS (IATA code, no cost) | Free | ID without full ticketing capability |
| ASTA Membership | $100–$410 | Industry networking, education, and support |
If you join a hosting agency, you can use their referrals. Independent agents must claim their own, which can be more complicated.
Step 6: Set Up Tools and Technology
Modern travel agencies use a variety of tools to manage bookings and clients. Your technical equipment should include:
- GDS system (Sabre, Amadeus, Travelport)
- CRM tools (ClientBase, Travefy)
- Trip planning tools (Travefy, Uplisting)
- Intermediary platform (through your provider)
- Marketing tools (email, social media, blogs)
Your hosts provide you with access to these platforms as part of your membership.
Step 7: Choose a Niche and Start Selling
Specialization can differentiate you and bring the correct clients. The most popular travel places are:
- Luxury travel
- Cruises
- Destination weddings
- Adventure or eco travel
- Corporate/business travel
- Disney or family vacations
You can start selling your products to your friends and relatives and ask them to provide testimonials about your work. Promote your services to others through social networking, email newsletters, and even verbally.
How Much Do Travel Agents Earn?
Your profit as a travel agency will vary based on location, sales levels, and business model.
| Agent Type | Average Income |
| Part-time (new agent) | $20,000–$35,000 |
| Full-time hosted agent | $45,000–$70,000 |
| Independent agent | $60,000–$100,000+ |
Depending on the supplier, the sale commission per booking can range from 10% to 20%. The more you sell, the higher you are doing – and the top-selling travel agents have been known to earn over six figures annually.
Do You Need a License to Work as a Travel Agent?
There isn’t any national license to become a travel agent in America. However, if you are going to cater to clients, you will have to register as a travel agent:
- California
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Washington
Each state has different fees and procedures for application. Besides these states, you can operate without a license legally, particularly if you operate through a hosting agency.
Conclusion: Start Your Travel Agent Career Today
Becoming a travel agent in 2025 is a convenient and profitable way to help others explore the world. Whether you participate with a managed agency or independently, there is a way to fit your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
With the right tools, training, and focus, you can build a successful travel business – often from home. The more complex the user journey, the more valuable your services will be.