How to Become a Travel Agent in Texas

Some people live for the road.

Being able to travel and find the best deals is something of a passion for many who live with the itch to go see the world.

If it’s going to be something you’re doing anyway, why not make money at it?

Those seeking a new career, or one that is related to their hobbies, might want to consider being a travel agent.

You might be surprised by that statement.

With internet access, a lot of what travelers went to agents for can now be done from the privacy of their own homes. 

However, there are a lot of benefits to using a travel agent as well as being one. 

Here, we’re going to take you through the ins and outs of being a professional travel agent in Texas. 

Travel Agent Duties in Texas

The travel agent life revolves around one thing; travel.

That means all that is encompassed through traveling is something the agent would be versed on and would use that knowledge daily.

Basically put, the major duties include communicating with clients, developing the ideal itinerary, putting together travel plans for the client, and being available while the client is on the trip in case of any issues.

That was probably expected when you imagine what a travel agent does daily.

What else falls under the scope of an agent?

The first thing that comes to mind is creativity and resourcefulness.

You might be surprised how many people connect with an agent and don’t really know where they want to go or what they want to do.

Sometimes they only point to a region in the world and give a budget.

Whether there’s a specific destination or not, travel agents also book flights, train rides, rental cars, theme park tickets, travel insurance, restaurant reservations, interpreters, currency exchanges, and any tickets needed for events in the area of the traveler.

Travel agents are pretty much your one-stop shop when it comes to all things vacation.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Travel Agent in Texas

There are no licenses needed to become an official travel agent in the state of Texas.

However, it is required to have insurance as well as a tax ID number. 

While you may start work without a license, it might be easier to get started if you’re a CTA, Certified Travel Agent  

Travel Agent Programs

Travel agents work a little differently than most professions when it comes to training.

There are many travel agencies that offer remote learning where the company itself trains you. 

Students may think that sounds like a great deal at first, but the reality is this is not a traditional education.

You basically pay these agencies to teach you what they know, so you can work for them.

On a positive note, agencies have insurance so you most likely won’t have to get your own.

Also, through the company, you have many perks and benefits that are often commission based.

The higher volume of sales you make, the more things you get like free hotel stays and cruises.

If you’re seeking education without beholding to an agency, here are a couple of suggestions:

Stratford Career Institute

This course takes a deep dive into travel around the world and can be completed in less than 12 weeks. 

Once you reach the end, there is a certification test.

Cost of the program is about $500.

The Travel Institute

This online course goes a bit further beyond just travel but also into business.

Potentially, you could graduate from this course and feel confident enough to take on the responsibility of building your own agency.

Students have up to a year to finish their studies. 

It costs $550 to get enrolled.

Travel Agent Representative Schools in Texas – Summary Table

Salary

Putting together trips may not necessarily feel like work but luckily, as a travel agent, you definitely can expect a decent salary.

 In Texas, agents have an average salary of around $39,600 annually.

Of course, depending on where you’re located, that number can fluctuate up and down.

Most in the field have a take-home of between $36,086 and $46,122. 

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Houston	$37,353
Dallas	$36,472
San Antonio	$35,403
Austin	$36,104
El Paso	$32,109
Fort Worth	$35,771
Arlington	$35,712
Corpus Christi	$34,456
Plano	$36,472
Garland	$36,472

Regional Salary in Texas

* 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

Does it cost a customer to use a travel agent?

Generally speaking, no.

That’s something all agents wish the public understood about using someone to book your trip.

Not only do you typically not pay an agent, but they also have access to a plethora of deals, discounts, and connections that can save you quite a bit on your trip.

So, even though you can technically book everything yourself, you never know what kind of extras you’ll get by using an agent with connections.

How do travel agents get paid?

Bigger companies typically provide a salary for agents and commissions on top.

The commissions are based on booked trips and are paid through the place that has been booked.

In other words, that’s how many agencies don’t charge clients.

They get paid through the hotels, cruises, and excursions being booked through the agency.

Is there a benefit to working with an independent travel agent?

An agent that doesn’t belong to an agency has more freedom in where they book.

The reason is, there are fewer ties to big chain hotels and cruise lines.

These agents can get more personal and book with your preferences in mind, as opposed to incentives they could get elsewhere.

Travel Agent Info by State