How to Become a Travel Agent in Maryland

Maryland is a lovely state on the Atlantic coast of the United States.

It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, forests, and seafood.

This makes Maryland a popular state for travel and tourism.

So, in addition to planning trips elsewhere in the world, Maryland travel agents are kept busy with local trips as well. 

If you’re looking to become a travel agent in Maryland, you have many options open for a fulfilling career.

For example, you can choose to work for yourself and develop your own business, or you could work for an already-established agency.

There’s also the option of working for resorts or cruise lines.

Travel agents may also opt to specialize in certain areas like honeymoons, family vacations, or specific countries.

This profession is great for people who live to travel and learn about new places.

If you enjoy working with people and like making them happy, then this is a profession worth considering.

Duties Of A Travel Agent In Maryland

In Maryland, and elsewhere in the United States, travel agents are in charge of meeting with clients and helping them to organize and manage their travel plans.

They may offer advice and give suggestions for vacations, and work within the clients’ budget.

They make reservations for air and ground transportation, as well as accommodations and activities.

The travel agent will work with the airlines and other vendors to get the best prices for their clients.

They may also ensure all documents and vaccines are current, explain the laws and customs, and research any travel restrictions and states of emergency a country may be experiencing.

A good travel agent will be on call to handle any issues that arise while their client is traveling.

Licensing Requirements To Be A Travel Agent In Maryland

Travel agents in Maryland do not need to be licensed or certified by the state of Maryland.

However, there are several voluntary certifications that agents can get that will make them stand out, increase their knowledge, and therefore make them more marketable.

Travel agents in Maryland do need to be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma.

It’s strongly recommended that when pursuing a career as a travel agent, that you take at least a certificate program at a secondary school.

Most travel agents do have at least a 2- year degree, while many have 4-year degrees in travel and tourism.

Program For Travel Agents In Maryland

Community College Of Baltimore

About The School

Since 1957, The Community College of Maryland has been providing residents of the state with affordable and comprehensive 2-year degrees and workforce development skills.

They are one of the largest colleges in Maryland, serving over 50,000 students a year.

Day and evening classes are offered, as well as classes for GED and English.

About The Program

The travel and tourism program is funded by the state’s workforce development division and the Department of Rehabilitation services. 

The course takes 100 hours to complete and students are given 6 months to take all courses.

It is 100% online, so students must have the self-discipline required to complete the material independently.

The topic of instruction includes the airline industry, ground transportation, cruise vacations, hotels and resorts, geography, international and domestic travel, as well as sales and marketing. 

Address: 11101 McCormick Rd.

Hunt Valley, Maryland 77168

Phone: (410)7716835

Website: https://www.ccbcmd.edu

Travel Agent Representative Schools in Maryland – Summary Table

Salary For Travel Agents In Maryland

Travel agents in Maryland make an average of $44,800 per year.

This is on par with the national average.

Depending on where agents work in Maryland, they’re salary can range from $41,000 to $50,200.

How much they make depends on several factors including experience, area of expertise, location, and reputation.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Baltimore	$37,738
Frederick	$39,431
Gaithersburg	$40,756
Bowie	$40,780
Rockville	$40,817
Hagerstown	$37,312
Annapolis	$38,899
College Park	$40,866
Salisbury	$39,027
Cumberland	$33,685

Regional Salary in Maryland

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Travel Agents, OCC Code 41-3041, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some specialty areas for travel agents in Maryland?

Travel agents can choose to work in one specific area of the travel industry.

This can lead to increased income.

Some of the areas include honeymoon packages, luxury travel, business trips, family vacations, and international tours.

What state specific attractions should travel agents know about in Maryland?

Travel agents should know about the many beaches and resort areas in the state.

They should also know about historical sites, camping sites, fishing excursions, and water activities.

Can travel agents easily start their own business in Maryland?

Yes.

If an individual is willing to put in the time and effort, there’s not a lot of red tape involved in starting a travel business.

It’s important to be well versed in marketing to attract clients.

What are the best ways to attract clients as a travel agent in Maryland?

The travel business in Maryland is a competitive one, so it’s important to know how to attract clients.

The best way is proper marketing.

This includes having a strong social media presence, a strong website, and an excellent email strategy.

It’s also important to make your existing clients happy, that way, they will return, and recommend you to others.

Travel Agent Info by State