Top 11 Travel Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a travel manager in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field. They also provide employers with evidence that the travel manager has received specialized training and is capable of handling complex tasks related to travel management. Certifications can help a travel manager stand out from other applicants, as employers value individuals who have taken the time and effort to obtain professional credentials. Additionally, certifications can open up new opportunities for career advancement by providing access to exclusive industry events or networking opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Travel Managers and explain how they can help advance a travel manager's career.

What are Travel Manager Certifications?

Travel Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward travel professionals who demonstrate an advanced level of expertise in the areas of travel management. The certification process provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to effectively manage the complexities and challenges of today’s corporate travel programs. By obtaining this certification, individuals are able to differentiate themselves from other travel managers and provide value-added services to their employers or clients.

The certification process includes taking a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as travel policy development, cost control strategies, supplier negotiations, risk management practices, technology trends, customer service techniques and more. Upon passing this exam, individuals are awarded a Travel Manager Certification (TMC) designation. This designation can be used as an important asset when applying for jobs or advancing in one's career. It also provides proof of dedication to the field of travel management and signifies that the individual is well-versed in the most up-to-date industry best practices.

Having a Travel Manager Certification can be beneficial for both employers and employees alike. For employers it can help them identify qualified candidates for open positions within their organizations. Additionally, certified professionals are better equipped to manage their company’s travel budget more efficiently by leveraging their knowledge of cost control strategies and supplier negotiations. For employees, having a Travel Manager Certification can make them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions within their current organization or outside companies. Ultimately this certification will help ensure that they have the necessary skillset required to successfully manage any type of corporate travel program.

Pro Tip: When looking for a travel manager certification program, make sure to research the certifying body and ensure that it is properly accredited. Additionally, look for programs that offer continuing education opportunities and access to industry-specific resources to keep your skills up to date.

Related: What does a Travel Manager do?

Top 11 Travel Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Travel Managers today.

1. Certified Travel Manager (CTM)

Certified Travel Manager (CTM) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to recognize travel professionals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in the field. The program is administered by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and requires that applicants meet certain criteria to be eligible for certification.

To become a CTM, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in the travel industry and must pass an exam administered by the GBTA. The exam includes topics such as corporate travel management, risk management, supplier negotiations, and expense management. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of current trends in the travel industry through case studies and other activities.

The cost for taking the exam is $395 USD for members of GBTA or $495 USD for non-members. It typically takes between two to four weeks to receive results from the exam. Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses every two years.

2. Certified Travel Professional (CTP)

Certified Travel Professional (CTP) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Certified Travel Agents (ICTA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the travel industry. The certification is awarded to those who pass an examination that covers topics such as customer service, sales, marketing, operations, and legal issues related to the travel industry.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for CTP certification. To become certified, applicants must first complete an approved training program or coursework in travel-related topics. After completing the coursework, applicants must then pass an exam administered by ICTA.

The cost of obtaining CTP certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen by the applicant. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500-$2,000 USD. In addition to program fees, applicants may also be required to pay a registration fee for taking the exam.

3. Certified Corporate Travel Executive (CCTE)

Certified Corporate Travel Executive (CCTE) is a professional certification program offered by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA). The CCTE certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in corporate travel management.

The CCTE certification program consists of five courses that cover topics such as corporate travel policies and procedures, risk management, data analysis, supplier negotiations, and more. Each course requires approximately 20 hours of study time, with an additional 10 hours for the final exam. Upon successful completion of all five courses and the final exam, candidates are awarded the CCTE designation.

To be eligible for the CCTE certification program, applicants must have at least two years of experience in corporate travel management or related fields. They must also be employed by a GBTA member organization or have obtained written permission from their employer to pursue the CCTE certification.

The cost of obtaining the CCTE certification varies depending on whether you are a GBTA member or non-member. For members, it costs $1,500 USD; for non-members it costs $2,000 USD. This fee includes all course materials and access to online resources such as webinars and discussion forums.

4. Certified Travel Counselor (CTC)

A Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) is a professional designation awarded by the Institute of Certified Travel Agents (ICTA) to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the travel industry. It is considered one of the most prestigious credentials in the field and is recognized by leading travel organizations worldwide.

To become a CTC, an individual must complete a comprehensive training program that includes courses on topics such as travel law, customer service, sales and marketing, and business operations. The program typically takes between six months and two years to complete depending on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying.

The cost of becoming a CTC varies depending on the provider offering the program. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500-$2,000 USD for tuition plus additional fees for books and materials.

In addition to completing the training program, applicants must pass a written exam administered by ICTA in order to receive their CTC certification. Those who successfully pass this exam are then eligible to use the CTC credential when working in the travel industry.

5. Certified Tourism Professional (CTP)

Certified Tourism Professional (CTP) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of tourism. It is awarded by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC).

To become a Certified Tourism Professional, you must have at least three years of full-time experience in the tourism industry and meet TIAC’s professional standards. You must also pass an online exam that covers topics such as marketing, customer service, product development, and management. The exam takes about two hours to complete.

To get your CTP designation, you must first register with TIAC and pay the registration fee of $150 CAD plus applicable taxes. Once you are registered, you will be able to access the online exam and begin studying for it. After you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your CTP designation and be eligible to use it on your business cards and other materials.

The CTP designation is valid for three years from the date it was issued. To maintain your certification status, you must participate in continuing education activities related to tourism every year during this period.

6. Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Certification

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the business travel industry. The certification program is designed to help professionals stay up-to-date on the latest trends, regulations, and best practices in the business travel industry.

The GBTA Certification consists of two levels: Certified Business Travel Professional (CBTP) and Certified Business Travel Executive (CBTE). Both certifications require applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as corporate travel policies and procedures, risk management, cost containment strategies, supplier negotiations, and global travel regulations.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. Candidates must first register for the exam by completing an application form and paying a fee. Once registered, candidates must study for the exam using materials provided by GBTA or other resources. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their CBTP or CBTE designation within two weeks.

The cost of obtaining a GBTA Certification varies depending on which level of certification you are pursuing. The fee for taking the CBTP exam is $495 USD while the fee for taking the CBTE exam is $595 USD.

7. International Air Transport Association (IATA) Diploma in Travel Management

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Diploma in Travel Management is a professional qualification designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the travel industry. It is an internationally recognized certification that provides an excellent foundation for those seeking employment in the travel industry.

The diploma consists of eight modules, which cover topics such as customer service, ticketing, fares and pricing, airline operations and regulations, travel agency operations, sales and marketing, and more. The program takes approximately six months to complete. To get the diploma, students must pass all eight modules with a minimum grade of 70%.

In order to enroll in the IATA Diploma in Travel Management program, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. The cost of the program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 USD.

8. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Cruise Counsellor Certification

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Cruise Counsellor Certification is a professional certification program that helps travel agents become more knowledgeable and efficient in selling cruise vacations. The certification program is designed to provide travel agents with the necessary skills, knowledge and tools to effectively sell cruises and provide their customers with the best possible experience.

The CLIA Cruise Counsellor Certification program consists of three levels: Certified, Elite and Master. To become certified, agents must complete an online course and pass a written exam. The course covers topics such as cruise line product knowledge, destination information, sales techniques, customer service skills and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on the material presented in the course. Once certified, agents can then move on to Elite or Master level certifications by completing additional courses and exams.

The cost for the CLIA Cruise Counsellor Certification varies depending on the level of certification desired. For example, the cost for the Certified level is $99 USD while the cost for Elite or Master level certifications is $299 USD each. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams or purchasing study materials.

In order to get certified, travel agents must first register with CLIA by creating an account on their website. They will then be able to access all of their available training materials and take their exams online at any time from any location with an internet connection. It typically takes about four hours to complete all three levels of certification; however, this may vary depending on how quickly you are able to complete your studies and pass your exams.

9. American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) Accredited Agent Certificate

The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) Accredited Agent Certificate is a professional designation that recognizes travel agents who have demonstrated a commitment to professionalism and excellence in the travel industry. It is an important distinction for travel agents, as it signifies that they have met ASTA's rigorous standards for knowledge, experience, and customer service.

In order to receive the ASTA Accredited Agent Certificate, travel agents must complete an extensive application process. This includes providing proof of at least two years' experience in the travel industry, submitting references from three current or former clients, and completing a comprehensive written examination. The exam covers topics such as customer service, sales and marketing practices, airline regulations and ticketing procedures, cruise industry operations, international travel laws and regulations, and other relevant topics.

The entire application process typically takes about four weeks or more to complete. Once approved by ASTA's Certification Board of Directors, the applicant will receive their official ASTA Accredited Agent Certificate in the mail.

The cost for obtaining the ASTA Accredited Agent Certificate varies depending on whether you are an individual or a business applying for certification. For individuals applying for certification through ASTA's Professional Development Program (PDP), there is a one-time fee of $299 USD plus applicable taxes; for businesses applying through PDP Plus there is an annual fee of $499 USD plus applicable taxes.

10. The Institute of Certified Travel Agents (ICTA): Certified Leisure and Corporate Travel Consultant

The Institute of Certified Travel Agents (ICTA) is an organization that provides certification for leisure and corporate travel consultants. It is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of travel.

To obtain the Certified Leisure and Corporate Travel Consultant (CLCTC) designation, applicants must complete a series of courses and pass an exam. The program consists of three core courses: Introduction to Travel, Leisure Travel Planning, and Corporate Travel Planning. Each course must be completed within six months, and the exam must be taken within one year after completing the core courses.

The cost to obtain the CLCTC designation varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of ICTA. For non-members, it costs $250 for each course plus a $100 application fee. For members, it costs $200 per course plus a $50 application fee. There is also an additional fee for taking the exam which is currently set at $150.

Once you have successfully completed all requirements for the CLCTC designation, you will receive your certificate from ICTA along with other benefits such as access to discounts on products and services related to travel planning, networking opportunities with other certified travel agents, and invitations to exclusive events hosted by ICTA.

11. The Institute of Hospitality: International Diploma in Hotel and Tourism Management

The Institute of Hospitality International Diploma in Hotel and Tourism Management is a professional qualification designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to work effectively in the hospitality industry. The diploma is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, providing assurance that it meets international standards for quality.

The diploma takes 12 months to complete and consists of five modules: Introduction to the Hospitality Industry; Food and Beverage Operations; Accommodation Operations; Human Resources Management; and Financial Management. Each module includes topics such as customer service, marketing, operations management, financial management, human resources management, and legal aspects of the hospitality industry.

To get the diploma, students must first register with The Institute of Hospitality. Once registered they will be sent an application pack which includes details on how to apply for the course, what documents are needed for admission and how much it costs. Once accepted onto the course, students will need to attend classes at their chosen study centre or online.

The cost of taking this course varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from £1,000-£2,000 (GBP). This fee covers tuition fees only; additional costs may include textbooks and other materials required for completion of assignments.

Do You Really Need a Travel Manager Certificate?

When it comes to the question of whether or not you need a travel manager certificate, the answer is “it depends.” If you are looking to work in an organization that requires a travel manager certificate, then yes, you will need one. However, if you are simply looking to gain experience in the travel industry and are not necessarily interested in becoming a certified travel manager, then no, you do not need one.

A travel manager certificate is intended for those who want to specialize in managing the operations of a travel organization. It generally covers topics such as budgeting and financial management, customer service and communication skills, tour operations and scheduling, marketing strategies and more. It also provides an understanding of the legal aspects of running a business related to the travel industry.

Having a travel manager certificate can be beneficial for those who are already employed in the travel industry but seeking to advance their career. Having this type of certification can demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field and make you more competitive when applying for positions with higher responsibility or pay grades. Additionally, having this type of certification could open up opportunities that may have previously been unavailable due to lack of experience or qualifications.

On the other hand, if you do not have any prior experience working in the travel industry and are just getting started out, then obtaining a travel manager certificate may not be necessary right away. You could gain valuable experience through internships or entry-level positions which would give you an opportunity to learn about how different aspects of managing a business related to the travel industry work without requiring certification first.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Travel Manager Certificate will depend on your individual goals and ambitions within the field of travel management. If it is important for your career advancement or job prospects then obtaining one would be beneficial; however, if it is not necessary for your current situation then there is no reason why you should pursue it at this time.

Related: Travel Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Travel Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Travel Manager Certification?

Answer: A Travel Manager Certification is a professional certification that provides a comprehensive understanding of the travel and hospitality industry. It offers knowledge of the various aspects of managing business travel, including airline ticketing, hotel bookings, car rentals, and other related services. The certification also covers topics such as customer service, budgeting, and risk management.

Q2. Who should get a Travel Manager Certification?

Answer: Anyone who works in the travel industry or plans to work in this field can benefit from obtaining a Travel Manager Certification. This includes those who are already working in the field or those who are looking to break into it. It is also beneficial for those who want to further their career by gaining specialized knowledge and skills related to business travel management.

Q3. How long does it take to get a Travel Manager Certification?

Answer: The amount of time required depends on several factors, such as the type of program chosen, the number of courses taken, and individual learning capabilities. Generally speaking, most programs require between six months and two years of study in order to complete all requirements for certification.

Q4. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Travel Manager?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Travel Manager offers numerous benefits, including improved job security and higher salaries due to increased expertise in the field; recognition from peers; access to exclusive networking opportunities; better marketability for promotions or new jobs; and increased credibility among customers.

Q5. How much does it cost to become certified?

Answer: The cost varies depending on the type of program chosen and any additional materials needed for study purposes (such as textbooks). Generally speaking, most programs range from $1,000 - $3,000 USD depending on length and difficulty level.