How to Become a Canadian Travel Agent

Travel agents help clients plan vacations to destinations all over the world. They have specialized training in areas such as booking flights, finding hotels, making arrangements for rental cars, and even assisting clients in choosing where they want to spend their summer vacation or honeymoon. They can also arrange more exotic vacations, such as cruises and safaris. In Canada, you may need to receive specific training or to pass an exam before you can work as a travel agent, depending on where you provide service. Other certifications are available and optional.

Instructions

1

Take advantage of high school courses that will help you in your future career as a travel agent. Travel agents help clients plan vacations all over the world. Therefore, you should study geography. Also, travel agents need to plan vacations that stay within their clients' budgets, so you should also take basic math courses. Be sure to take any business-related courses your school offers, as well.

2

Receive training after high school. You can attend a school dedicated to travel and tourism, or you can attend college and major in travel and tourism. Your high school guidance counselor can help you find the school that's right for you. Contact the schools you're considering, and arrange a visit. Be sure the one you choose offers comprehensive courses in tourism and travel.

3

Consider receiving more advanced certifications. Many travel agents specialize in certain areas, such as honeymoon planning, exotic destinations, or overseas travel. Certification in your specialized area can help you establish yourself as an expert in the field. You can also receive more general certifications from organizations like the Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors.

4

Take the BC Travel Insurance exam if you live in British Columbia. This is a 90-minute exam that includes 50 multiple- choice questions relating to insurance issues in the travel and tourism industry. More information about the exam, such as study materials and scheduling an exam time, can be found through the Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors, located in the resources section below.

5

Comply with the Travel Industry Council of Ontario's standards if you live in Ontario. These standards include studying for and passing an online exam that covers various material, such as working as a travel agent, supervisor and manager roles, the Travel Industry Act, obligations to clients, handling complaints, and record keeping. A link to the study manual and exam process can be found in the resources section below.