
What Is A CLIA Card?
CLIA cards verify cruise line expertise of travel agents. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) distributes these cards. They are the largest industry trade association for the cruise line industry. CLIA has representation almost everywhere in the world! CLIA cards are physical proof of industry knowledge to potential clients and vendors. As a travel agent, they are also your ticket to a wealth of insight about the cruise line industry. Cruises are a booming, in-demand travel method. Clients want your expertise. CLIA cards demonstrate your expert ability to book what your clients want.
- Establish yourself as an expert at booking cruises
- Gain exclusive access to industry insights, professional development, and more
- Help your travel business grow and succeed
How Can You Get One?
CLIA doesn’t assign CLIA cards to just anyone. You have to prove your industry knowledge before you can gain access. If you are a travel agent working alone, you have to earn a minimum of $5,000 in commissions before you can apply. Once you earn your commissions, you can apply on the CLIA website. However, it is important to know enrollment for your area may vary.
There are fees associated with obtaining a CLIA card. However, the fees are a worthwhile investment in your small business as a travel advisor. These cards require CLIA membership. Once you are a member, you can receive your card. Cards are valid for a full calendar year. It’s important to renew your card to maintain your credentials. CLIA cards contain a unique EMBARC ID number. This is your personal number to provide clients and vendors to certify you sell travel. The card also proves your skills to the industry! With your CLIA card, you have exclusive access to industry training and events.
How TPI Can Help
As you build your small business as a travel advisor, you don’t want to go at it alone. Learning the ins and outs of the travel industry can be daunting. However, with a host agency like Travel Planners International, you’re never alone. You have a built-in support system of travel experts and agents. Our staff obsesses over your success, and we do everything we can to train and prepare you. You have access to a multitude of resources and insights. We set you up for success with the knowledge you need to begin your career as a cruise expert.
TPI helps our Rockstars obtain their CLIA cards. We know everyone has a unique path as a travel agent. That’s why we waive the commission requirement for earning your CLIA card! However, you do need to register on the CLIA website. Make sure to enroll in the Individual Agent Membership program! You can do this by clicking the “Travel Professional” tab and following the link.
This isn’t all we do to help our Rockstars! TPI makes every effort for you to earn the highest commissions. We want you to be successful as you grow your small business. As a Premium CLIA-affiliated host agency, we offer discounts on CLIA cards. In fact, TPI agents save $50 on their CLIA cards. This nearly slashes the price in half! We share our credibility with you because we believe in you. Our Rockstars are the reason we are successful, and you deserve a slice of that success!
Benefits You Get From a CLIA Card
Working with a host agency like us gives you a partner in running your successful travel business. CLIA cards take this to the next level! When you obtain your card, you let your clients and travel partners alike know that you know your stuff. CLIA cards reinforce your specialty knowledge of the cruise industry specifically. Cruises are one of the most popular types of travel, and the industry keeps growing! Set yourself apart from the rest with a CLIA card to show off your skills. Benefits of CLIA cards include:
- Ability to earn bonus commissions
- Ability to expand your cruise line knowledge
- Access to exclusive areas of the CLIA website
- Access to marketing and sales tools
- Cruise line training and education resources
- Inside updates on any potential legislative updates that impact travel
- Membership to the world’s largest cruise industry trade association
- Priority access to FAM trip invites
- Professional development courses
- Proof you sell travel to attend industry events
- Special product training
