How to become a travel agent in How To Become A Travel Agent In Illinois Faq
The main legal requirement is to obtain an IATA number, which is provided by a host agency if you choose to work with one.
No, there are no state licensing requirements for becoming a travel agent in Illinois.
There are so many opportunities as a travel agent. Click here to see our preferred suppliers list that shows off what you can sell as a travel agent with Vincent Vacations.
No, a bachelor’s degree or high school diploma is not required, but formal training in tourism or business can be beneficial.
You can consider college programs in tourism or business, or certificate programs offered by various institutions and host agencies.
Certification is highly encouraged as it provides specialty courses, networking opportunities, and additional skills for the job.
Organizations such as the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and Travel Industry Designator Service (TIDS) offer certifications.
A host agency provides resources such as booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and training, as well as an IATA number.
While it is not mandatory, most independent travel agents in Illinois work with a host agency for the resources and support they provide.
Travel agents can book flights, accommodations, organize activities and excursions, and plan trips to various destinations, including local trips within Illinois.
Local knowledge can help plan trips to Illinois, including foodie tours of Chicago, boating on the lake, and other local activities.
A seller of travel includes individuals or agencies that help facilitate and organize travel requests, such as selling pre-arranged travel packages, offering tourist services, selling cruise packages, and more.
Start by understanding the role, finding the right host agency, and obtaining the necessary training and certification.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
Training can vary from a few months for certificate programs to two or four years for college programs.
Certification provides access to specialty courses, networking opportunities, and enhanced job skills.
A host agency provides access to an IATA number, which is necessary for conducting business as a travel agent.
Host agencies provide booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, training, and access to an IATA number.
Use your local knowledge to plan unique trips and activities within Illinois, such as foodie tours or boating excursions.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
While not mandatory, ongoing education and certification can help keep your skills up-to-date and enhance your career opportunities.
Certification programs often include networking opportunities that can help you connect with other professionals in the travel industry.
You can offer vacation packages, tourist services, cruise packages, plane tickets, and car or boat rentals, among other services.
Click below to learn more and apply to be a travel agent in Illinois FAQ today.
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Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own. All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US! Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team. We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service. We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group. Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
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