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Becoming a IATA Travel and Tourism Agent
If you are interested in becoming a iata travel and tourism agent, look no further. The process of becoming a travel agent is not a difficult one, though it has been shrouded in mystery for far too long.
Let's face facts. There is no necessary license for becoming a travel agent. If you want to get an IATA or IATAN card, that is another matter altogether.
An IATAN (International Airlines Travel Agent Network) card is really the one true way to prove you are a travel agent. Keep in mind that all IATAN cardholders are travel agents, but not all travel agents are IATAN cardholders. When you begin working with an agency (or create your own home based practice) you have the opportunity to file for an IATA card. Generally, this costs between $30-45 and takes a few weeks to process. My advice is to apply for this card right away, as there's no telling when you may want to use one of the discounts! To apply, go to the IATAN website at (you guessed it) iatan.org.
However, take this one step futher - Once you receive your IATA card apply for various vendor programs with hotel, car and airline providers. Once they see you are a bona fide travel agent, you can sign up for their educational programs, which in turn entitles you to their specially discounted rates.
So what if you don't already work for a travel agency? Well, you could become a home based agent and work with a host agency (who provides support in exchange for a cut of your commissions). Your host will provide you with an IATA number, which you can then use to apply for the ID card and all the vendor programs as well
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