How to Get a Travel Agent License in the USA: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Becoming a travel agent in the USA is one of the most rewarding ways to turn your passion for travel into a profitable career. While many states do not require a specific “travel agent license,” some states enforce Seller of Travel regulations, and all agents must meet certain business and legal requirements. This detailed guide explains how licensing works, what you need to get started, the step-by-step process, costs, timelines, certifications, and frequently asked questions.
Do You Need a License to Become a Travel Agent in the USA?
In most U.S. states, there is no specific travel agent license required. However, a few states enforce Seller of Travel (SOT) registration for anyone selling travel services.
States requiring registration:
- California
- Florida
- Washington
- Hawaii
Additionally, all travel agents need basic business documentation such as a state business license, EIN, and sometimes accreditation if working independently.
Basic Requirements to Become a Travel Agent
Below is a clear table summarizing the essential nationwide requirements:
Basic Requirements Table
| Requirement | Mandatory | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age (18+) | Yes | You must be at least 18 to form a business. |
| Business License | Yes | Register your business name with your state. |
| EIN (Tax ID) | Yes | Required for tax filing and opening a business bank account. |
| Seller of Travel Registration | Depends on State | Required only in CA, FL, WA, HI. |
| Travel Agent Certification | Optional | Increases credibility and improves commissions. |
| Host Agency Partnership | Optional | Helps beginners avoid high accreditation costs. |
States Requiring a Travel Agent or Seller of Travel License
Only four states have mandatory licensing rules for travel agents.
States and Their Requirements
| State | Registration Type | Approx. Cost | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Seller of Travel (CST) | $100–$300 | 4–6 weeks | Mandatory for anyone selling travel to CA residents. |
| Florida | Seller of Travel | $300–$350 | 3–4 weeks | Requires a surety bond or trust account. |
| Washington | Seller of Travel | $200–$250 | 3–6 weeks | Must follow strict consumer-protection rules. |
| Hawaii | Travel Agency License | $200–$500 | 4–8 weeks | Additional rules for packaged tours. |
If you live in another state but sell travel to these states, you may still need registration.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Travel Agent License in the USA
Below is the detailed process, following standard U.S. regulations and 2025 requirements.
Step 1: Choose Your Travel Business Structure
Most travel agents start with one of the following:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Partnership
Business Structure Comparison
| Structure | Cost | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sole Proprietor | Low | Easy and cheap setup | No liability protection |
| LLC | Medium | Protects assets, ideal for agencies | State fees apply |
| Partnership | Low | Shared responsibility | Shared liability |
Step 2: Register Your Business and Obtain an EIN
This step applies in every U.S. state.
- Choose a business name.
- Register it through your state’s business portal.
- Obtain an EIN from the IRS website (free).
- Open a business bank account to manage client payments.
Step 3: Complete Seller of Travel Registration (If Required in Your State)
If operating in CA, FL, WA, or HI, you will need to:
- Submit the SOT application
- Pay the registration fee
- Provide financial statements
- Set up a trust account or surety bond if needed
- Display your SOT number on all marketing and websites
Failure to register can result in penalties or legal action in these states.
Step 4: Get Travel Agent Education or Certification (Optional but Recommended)
Certification is not legally required but can help you:
- Gain expertise
- Earn higher commissions
- Build trust with clients
- Join industry networks
Top Travel Agent Certifications
| Certification | Provided By | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Travel Associate (CTA) | The Travel Institute | $550–$700 | Beginners |
| Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) | The Travel Institute | $650–$900 | Experienced agents |
| ACC/MCC/ECC | CLIA | $300–$500 | Cruise specialists |
| IATA/IATAN ID Card | IATA | $165/year | Recognition and agent benefits |
Step 5: Join a Host Agency (Easiest Way to Start)
A host agency gives you access to:
- IATA, ARC, and CLIA accreditation
- Higher commission rates
- Booking platforms and training
- Supplier relationships
Most beginners start with a host agency to avoid high startup costs.
Popular Host Agencies
| Host Agency | Approx. Cost | Commission Split |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Planners | $23–$150/month | 60–80% |
| Outside Agents | $21/month | Up to 90% |
| Archer Travel | $69 setup | 60–90% |
| Travel Planners International | Varies | 70–90% |
Step 6: Get Accreditation if Working Independently
If you choose not to join a host agency, you will need your own accreditation to issue tickets and earn commissions.
Accreditation Requirements Table
| Accreditation | Cost | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| ARC | $2,300+ | Requires office inspection, financial records |
| IATA | $1,000+ | Business license, financial details |
| CLIA | $399/year | Best for cruise-focused agents |
Because these are expensive, most new agents operate under a host agency.
Step 7: Buy Professional Liability Insurance
Travel insurance protects your business from claims related to:
- Trip cancellations
- Missed bookings
- Errors or delays
- Client emergencies
Average cost: $300–$600 per year.
Step 8: Build a Professional Travel Agency Website
Your website should include:
- Service list
- Contact information
- Booking inquiry form
- Testimonials
- Certifications
- Destination guides and blogs for SEO
Google Discover performs well with high-quality images and updated content.
Step 9: Start Booking Travel and Earning Commissions
Travel agents earn commissions from:
- Hotels
- Airlines
- Tour operators
- Cruise lines
- Car rental companies
- Travel insurance providers
Typical commission range: 10–20%, with luxury packages offering even higher returns.
Travel Agent Licensing Cost in the USA
Cost Breakdown Table
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Business Registration | $50–$300 |
| EIN | Free |
| Seller of Travel License | $100–$350 |
| Host Agency Fees | $0–$200/month |
| Accreditation (Independent) | $400–$2,300 |
| Liability Insurance | $300–$600 |
How Long Does It Take to Become a Travel Agent?
| Path | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Join a host agency | 1–7 days |
| Seller of Travel registration | 2–8 weeks |
| Full accreditation (IATA/ARC) | 4–12 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a degree to become a travel agent?
No. Certifications and training programs are helpful but not required.
How much can a travel agent earn in the USA?
Most agents earn between $35,000 and $65,000 annually. High-end agents can make over $100,000.
Can I work as a travel agent from home?
Yes, many U.S. travel agents run their businesses remotely.
Is certification mandatory?
No, but it increases your earning potential and improves client trust.
Do I need a Seller of Travel license if I live in a non-SOT state?
If you sell travel to clients in California, Florida, Washington, or Hawaii, you may still need registration.
How do travel agents get paid?
You earn a commission from airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators.
Is accreditation required?
Only if you operate independently. Host agencies allow you to skip this step.
Do travel agent licenses expire?
Seller of Travel licenses must be renewed yearly.
Do I need insurance?
It is not mandatory but strongly recommended.
Can beginners start without experience?
Yes. Host agencies provide training and tools to start immediately.