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Where is this? Splendido, a Belmond Hotel, Portofino, Italy

"We take care of licensing for our agents."

What is a travel agent license? Essentially, it's a Seller of Travel License required by certain states. These licenses are crucial—you can't legally sell to residents or operate within those states without one. Currently, only four states require them: Florida, California, Hawaii, and Washington.

Apply to Join Our Team

Are your currently a travel agent?

Highlight relevant skills. Tell us how you plan to get your first clients. Share why you think you would be a good fit for our team. Failing to complete this field fully will cause your application to be automatically rejected. Helpful hint: "I love travel" is not enough of an answer.

Napasai-Belmond-Koh-Samui.avif

Where is this? La Samanna, a Belmond Hotel, St. Martin

Do you need a Travel Agent License?

Most agents have their licenses covered by their host agencies, but it's essential to ensure your host is properly licensed and compliant with state regulations. For example, we handle all licensing for our agents, including submitting regular updates to the state of Florida, which requires independent contractors to pay annual fees even if their host holds a Seller of Travel license. Our agents must file an Independent Agent Affidavit/Statement of Exemption each year with the state of Florida; we give them step-by-step instructions and support.


This is not legal advice. Always verify requirements directly with each state to stay informed. Use the links below to access the latest information.


Florida Sellers of Travel

California Sellers of Travel

Washington State Sellers of Travel

Hawaii Sellers of Travel

Ready to join our team?

Our agency might just change your life. We will give you a new skill, new community and new way to earn serious income. Go ahead and apply and know within 48 hours whether you've made the cut. Remember, no travel agent experience required.

Belmond-Cap-Juluca-Anguilla-Boat.avif

Where is this? Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, Anguilla.

Beyond the Seller of Travel License, Things to Know

Here are some examples of additional state-level regulations that are different from Seller of Travel licenses. This list is not exhaustive, so check with your state to ensure you meet all requirements.


  1. New York: NY also has stringent laws governing sellers of travel. If you are an agent based in New York, you should read NY's Article 10-A Truth in Travel Act. Make sure to thoroughly review Chapter Section 157-A, as it provides a specific outline of the disclosures you must provide to your travel clients.

  2. Illinois: A trust account may be required to comply with the Illinois Travel Promotion Consumer Protection. From what we've read, this requirement applies specifically to agents who accept payments from clients as opposed to paying the supplier directly. However, there are exemptions available if you meet the following criteria: a) have at least $1 million liability coverage through Errors and Omissions Insurance, and b) possess a surety bond of $100,000 or more.

  3. Delaware: If you operate a travel agency in Delaware (refer to No. 24), you are required to register for an occupational license. The current cost of this license is $225 USD. It's important to note that this requirement is slightly different from the state travel agency licensing laws mentioned earlier. In Delaware, you only need to obtain this license if you plan to open a travel agency within the state rather than if you intend to sell to Delaware residents.

  4. Louisiana: Louisiana requires retail travel agencies (meaning they have physical storefronts) to pay an annual licensing fee. However, if you operate a home-based agency in Louisiana, you are exempt from this requirement. The cost of the licensing fee depends on your gross sales. To determine the specific fee applicable to you, we recommend referring to this resource on Louisiana travel agency licensing fees.

  5. Massachusetts: In Massachusetts (MA), selling travel without conducting due diligence is not permissible. By due diligence, we mean familiarizing yourself with the details outlined in section 15:07 of MA's 940 CMR. If you operate a travel agency in MA, it is crucial to understand and comply with these regulations.


Feeling confused? Here's a helpful tip (not legal advice): the flow of funds matters. If you charge service fees, you're holding money, which carries legal implications. Without service fees, your host agency holds the funds instead. For example, our agents are banned from charging service fees, which are fully covered under our licenses.

Belmond-La-Residencia-Mallorca.avif

Where is this? Amanjiwo, Java, Indonesia

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Where is this? Splendido Mare, a Belmond Hotel, Portofino, Italy

Get Support From Your Host Agency or a Lawyer

If you're still feeling anxious about compliance, it's a good idea to discuss your situation with your host agency or prospective host. Hosts like ours cover all licensing requirements, so our agents don't have to worry about it. Your host can provide further guidance, but if you're charging fees or accepting payments directly from clients, consulting a lawyer is the best way to ensure compliance. We've had in-depth conversations with our legal team to guarantee our agency and agents meet travel licensing laws, as government resources can often be vague.

What is a travel agent license?

Last Updated:

01/16/2025

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