How to Become a Travel Agent in Vermont

It is common for many people around the world to go on vacations, especially during the summer months, winter break, and spring break.

Planning that vacation can take a lot of time and energy that many people don’t want to deal with, so they hire someone to take care of all the planning for them.

These people are called travel agents.

If you enjoy planning, finding good travel deals, and much more, you can look into becoming a travel agent.

Keep reading below to find out how to become a travel agent in Vermont.

Travel Agent Duties in Vermont

The duties of a travel agent in Vermont are similar to those in other states.

A travel agent in Vermont is responsible for assisting clients with planning and booking their travel arrangements.

This includes researching and providing information on various destinations, transportation options, accommodations, and activities.

They may also help clients with visa applications, travel insurance, and other related services.

Additionally, travel agents in Vermont may be involved in marketing and promoting travel packages, negotiating with suppliers, and maintaining client relationships.

It’s important to note that specific duties may vary depending on the travel agency and the individual agent’s expertise.

Licensing Requirements

There are no official licensing requirements for travel agents in Vermont.

The only legal licensing that might apply you might need is if you start your own business.

If that is the case, the state requires you to license your business in Vermont and have specific legal certifications, licenses, and permits.

To be sure, you should check Vermont’s official website to double-check any changes.

While there are no licensing or certification requirements, it is a good idea to enroll in a program to get certification.

It would be a great thing to add to your resume. More education, licensing, and experience can help you land a job as a travel agent or gain new clients.

Travel Agent Programs

Here are some schools and programs for travel agents in Vermont.

Vermont State University

Vermont State University has a travel agent program that costs $2,245 and takes approximately six months to complete.

The courses that students will take during this time include:

• Introduction to the Travel Industry
• Professional Skills
• Basic / International Geography
• Destination Geography
• Introduction to International Travel
• Introduction to Air Travel
• Transportation
• Career Development
• Sales and Marketing for Travel

The travel agent program at Vermont State University requires the purchase of two textbooks. These books are: 

• Travel Career Development and accompanying workbook
• Exploring the World and accompanying workbook

The Travel Institute

The Travel Institute offers a certification program called the Certified Travel Associate program.

The courses included in this program are as follows:

• Business Ethics
• Business Writing Skills
• Customer Service
• Customer-Focused Selling
• The Art of Listening and Communicating
• Marketing and Promoting Your Business
• Time Management
• Understanding Customer Needs
• Accepting and Processing Payments
• Planning Itineraries
• Selling all-Inclusive Resorts
• Selling Escorted Vacations
• Selling Special Interest Travel
• Touring the World
• Travel Insurance

To become certified, there are a few requirements.

1.  To enroll, you need to have a minimum of one year of experience or pass the Travel Agent Proficiency exam with at least 80% or more.
2.  To earn your CTA Certification, you have to pass the CTA exam with at least 70% or higher and earn at least 10 Continuing Education Units every year to maintain your certification.

Travel Agent Representative Schools in Vermont – Summary Table

Salary

In the United States, a travel agent can make anywhere from $36,710 to $46,920.

This is the average range for the country as a whole.

To get a better idea of how much you can make, it depends on a variety of factors, including your location, skills, certifications, education, and experience, among other things.

In Vermont, the average range for a travel agent is between $35,352 at the low end and $45,184 at the high end. The average salary is around $38,796.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Burlington	$36,222
Essex	$36,222
Rutland	$36,473
Colchester	$36,222
South Burlington	$36,222
Bennington	$37,122
Brattleboro	$37,293
Williston	$36,222
Montpelier	$35,891
Barre	$35,891

Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about becoming a travel agent in Vermont.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still become a travel agent if I don't have any additional education?

Yes, you can still become a travel agent even if you don’t have any additional education.

Even though you don’t need to be certified or have any higher education, it looks great on your resume, and you can increase your chances of finding a job if you take a few courses or enroll in a certification program.

How long does it take to become a travel agent in Vermont?

The time it takes to become a travel agent in Vermont can vary depending on the individual and the specific training program or education path they choose.

Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year to complete the necessary training and obtain the required certifications to work as a travel agent.

It is recommended to research and contact specific travel agent training programs or institutions in Vermont for more accurate and up-to-date information on the duration of their programs.

Can I start my career as a travel agent right out of high school?

While it is true that you can become a travel agent without additional training and experience, it is wise to gain experience and/or education in the travel agent industry.

With more experience and education, your resume will look better to employers, and you will have a better chance of landing that job.

Travel Agent Info by State