How to Become a Registered Travel Agent

Travel agents are always in demand as people want to plan their dream vacations. Anyone with basic computer skills can go to school to be a travel agent. It is an ideal career for anyone who loves customer service and is interested in world travel.

Instructions

1

Enroll in a travel and hospitality (or similar) program at a vocational or technical college. Programs are offered online or on campuses. Some community colleges also offer programs. Classes will include basic computer programs for travel agents, business and geography classes. A travel agent must be familiar with geography to plan trips and business is necessary for sales and marketing knowledge. Travel agents also need to learn how to fill out ticketing and other travel forms which are not used in other industries. Foreign language classes can be taken as electives and may be helpful if you decide to work as a region-specific travel agent.

2

Apply at a travel agency to gain experience. Even during school you can get a job as a receptionist or reservation clerk to gain experience in the industry and possibly work your way up to a travel agent. Large travel agencies also provide training and certification programs on-site. If you work at an agency you also gain valuable experience that will allow you to possibly run your own travel agency one day.

3

Join the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) upon graduation and certification. Even as an independent travel consultant you can be registered with the national association. This association is a source of valuable networking events, discounts and other resource tools.

4

Pay your yearly fees. The yearly ASTA fee covers membership and access to association resources.

5

Stay current. Keep up with news, developments and trends in the travel industry. Pay attention to the popular areas to visit and new computer programs. Further education gives you an advantage of knowing what the up-and-coming vacation spots. You also need to pay attention to the news to assure places are safe to vacation. Talk with people as well to hear about their traveling experiences. Use other people and your vacationing experiences as resources to plan enjoyable vacations for your customers.