Travel Agent

UPDATED FOR 2025

A Travel agent helps clients plan and book trips, including flights, hotels, tours, cruises, and other travel services. They, as travel agents, tailor travel packages to the client's needs, handle logistics, provide support before and during the trip, and keep up to date with global travel trends, regulations, and destinations. This profession combines customer service, sales, and destination expertise.

Category Hospitality / Tourism / Restaurants
State New Jersey (NJ)
Travel Agent

In New Jersey, no state license is required to become a travel agent. However, professional certifications such as Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) from The Travel Institute are highly valued. Many agents join host agencies for booking access and legal and business support, or apply for an IATA accreditation to operate independently.

Step-by-Step Guide

2

Pass the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Exam

After your course, take the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) exam (~$95, 100 questions). Passing TAP shows you have a strong knowledge of travel industry basics and is often required for employment and certification.
  • Cost: ~$95
  • Questions: 100 multiple-choice
  • Time: 2 hours
  • Pass Score: 70% or higher
  • Format: Proctored exam
3

Get Certified (CTA or CTC)

Earn industry credentials to enhance boost your professional reputation and increase your earning potential power:
  • 1. Certified Travel Associate (CTA)
  • Certification requirements:
  • Candidates must fulfill the following requirements to enroll:
  • A minimum of 1 year of industry experience selling travel, OR
  • Pass the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP®) exam with a score of 80% or higher.
  • Candidates must fulfill the following requirements to earn their CTA Certification:
  • Pass the proctored CTA® exam with a grade of 70% or higher.
  • Earn a minimum of ten (10) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) annually to maintain Certification and participate in the public Certified Travel Agent Directory.
  • Cost: USD 599
  • 2. Certified Travel Counselor (CTC)
  • Certification requirements:
  • Candidates must fulfill the following requirements to enroll:
  • A minimum of 5 years of industry experience selling travel
  • Have completed the CTA® course and have passed the CTA® Exam (*testing-out available)
  • Candidates must fulfill the following requirements to earn their CTC Certification:
  • Pass the proctored CTC® exam with a grade of 70% or higher
  • Complete a white paper or submit a qualifying project
  • Earn a minimum of ten (10) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) annually to maintain Certification and participate in the public Certified Travel Agent Directory.
  • Cost: USD 599
4

Join a Host Agency or Obtain IATA Accreditation

To gain booking access and legal and financial infrastructure, join a host agency (many charge $0–$500 to join, take a percentage of your commissions). Alternatively, if you plan to operate independently, apply for your own IATA accreditation (annual fee ~$360; requirements apply).
5

Market Your Services & Grow Your Client Base

Create a professional website, register your business, Network at local events, and promote your services on social media and travel forums. Consider specializing in niches such as cruises, destination weddings, or adventure travel.