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A State-by-State Guide to Becoming a Travel Agent

Fora Author Fora

Fora

Updated August 27, 2026

To start a travel agent business, get to know any state-specific rules and licensing info, then find a host agency to help you begin.

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In This Article

Becoming an advisor in most U.S. states is straightforward, and most states don’t have licensing requirements. However, four states—California, Florida, Hawaii, and Washington—have Seller of Travel registration requirements to keep in mind. Maryland introduced a similar Seller of Travel law this year that will go into effect in October 2026, which also comes with proof of insurance requirements. Seller of Travel is a business registration, not a license.

Your host agency typically has its own Seller of Travel registration that you operate under, but your host agency can walk you through the requirements. After joining Fora, advisors get outreach with additional guidance if they’re responsible for any registration steps.

We encourage you to check with your local Chamber of Commerce for any municipal licensing requirements, which can differ at city or county levels.

State-by-state guides

Follow your state guide to becoming a travel advisor to learn how to get started and understand any local licensing rules.

Fora has advisors in over 140 countries. Follow our guides to get started in Canada or Mexico.

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