How much do travel agents make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, travel agents earn an average income of $43,810 per year ($21.06 per hour). Top-earning travel agents (90th percentile) earn over $74,220 annually. This occupation has an expected growth rate of 20% by 2031, much faster than the average growth rate for all professions (5%). This translates into 7,500 openings for travel agents every year.

What does a travel agent do?

Based on information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, travel agents sell transportation, lodging, and admission to entertainment activities to individuals and groups planning trips. They offer advice on destinations, plan trip itineraries, calculate total costs, and make travel arrangements for clients.

A travel agent's typical duties can include anything from organizing travel for business and vacation clients (planning and arranging tour packages, excursions, and day trips) to giving details on required documents, such as passports and visas, and on complying with cross-border entry requirements, such as health and safety protocols. Travel agents also describe trips to clients, advise about local customs and attractions, book reservations for travel, hotels, rental cars, and special events, and make alternative booking arrangements if changes arise before or during a trip.

What is a certified travel agent?

A certified travel agent has earned one of the available industry certifications, such as Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC). While they are not required to work in the industry, travel agent certifications can add prestige to your resume. When considering a CTA certification, it is necessary to first obtain the TAP certification. This course covers the fundamental knowledge necessary for this certification and serves as a solid foundation for your CTA certification journey.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

The Travel Agent Training course will prepare you to sit for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) test, offered by the Travel Institute (formerly ICTA), the registration fee for this test is included with this course. The Travel Agent Proficiency or TAP test is the first step towards professional recognition. The test allows students to demonstrate that they have mastered the basics of the travel industry – selling skills, basic geography, and the items/products sold by travel counselors.

When can I start the course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

How long does it take to complete this course?

This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive six (6) months to complete the course.

What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a certificate of completion. In addition, you will receive an exam voucher for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) test, offered by the Travel Institute (formerly ICTA), after successful completion of the course and financial obligation.

Am I guaranteed a job?

This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.

Can I get financial assistance?

This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.