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How to Become a Travel Agent. Wanderlust and a passion for exotic cuisine and local history
might have been enough to become a travel agent in the past. Now, with internet travel
sites, you have to be more creative. You will need A high school diploma A computer with
internet access Job and travel experience Travel counselor certification and foreign
language skills (optional) (optional) (optional). Step 1. Earn a high school diploma and expand
your knowledge of foreign cultures, customs, and history. Step 2. Enroll in a six- to 12-week
training course for travel agent basics. Learn a foreign language. Step 3. Enroll in computer-based
courses. The American Society of Travel Agents provides a list of travel schools. Step 4.
Register with your state through the Attorney General’s office or Consumer Affairs. Check
other state laws, as you may be required to register when selling travel in those regions,
too. Step 5. Take a job as a hotel reservations clerk, or join a host agency. Join a travel
consortium for additional marketing information and support. Step 6. Travel often and learn
regulations, currency exchanges, passport rules, travel advisories, industry standards,
and international laws. Step 7. Earn a travel counselor certification to enhance your professional
credentials. Enjoy your career! Did you know Did you know? Just 30 percent of leisure travelers
use travel agents.