LTA Central is a host travel agency and is part of a well-established travel sales network and marketing organization.
LTA Central’s parent company, Leisure Travel Alliance, is a traditional travel agency consortium founded in 2007.
Leisure Travel Alliance launched LTA Central in 2013 with the acquisition of International Tours of Houston, a host travel agency in operation since 1974. LTA Central does not sell directly to the public. Our sole business is that of hosting our member agents.
International Travel Institute’s classroom – style travel school was also part of the 2013 acquisition. In 2025, we launched the online version of the International Travel Institute’s entry-level agent course eliminating the need for attendees to travel to Houston for classroom sessions.
A host agency is an organization that partners with independent, home-based travel agents through contractor agreements. These agents maintain full ownership and operation of their businesses while benefiting from the host agency's accreditation number, improved commission rates, supplier relationships, and marketing and technology resources. The key distinction is that hosted agencies utilize the host travel agency's accreditation number instead of obtaining their own.
Do you require experience?
Experience is not a prerequisite for our independent contractors. We welcome individuals at all levels of expertise in the travel industry.
What do I need to become an independent travel agent?
To become an independent travel agent, you'll need to establish a business name and email address. Depending on your location, you may need to register a 'doing business as' (DBA) name with your local county clerk's office, or set up a more formal business structure such as a corporation or LLC. Additionally, errors and omissions (E&O) insurance is required. Some host agencies offer this insurance at a discounted rate, while others may require you to obtain your own coverage.
What are the fees?
Our fee structure includes an initial enrollment fee of $175.00. There is also an annual renewal fee of $100.00, which is waived if the independent contractor earns at least $600.00 in commissions during the year. We offer errors and omissions (E&O) insurance at an annual rate of $100.00.
What is required to join?
To join our agency, you must complete the online 'New Travel Agent & Owner Class' through our International Travel Institute. Following this, you'll need to pay the required fees, sign a contract, submit an enrollment form, and provide documentation of your business structure (such as DBA, LLC, or corporate structure).
When I fill out the information form on this site, have I joined?
Submitting the online form does not constitute joining our agency. This form is used to collect basic information about you. After submission, we will contact you to discuss our programs. If there is mutual agreement that we meet each other's criteria, we will assist you in completing the full membership application process.
How long does it take to get started?
The online course is self-paced, allowing you to complete it at your convenience. Once you've finished the course, paid the necessary fees, and submitted all required documents, it typically takes 24-48 hours to process your registration and provide access to travel suppliers' agent portals.
What types of training does LTA Central offer?
LTA Central provides a variety of training opportunities. Following the initial 'New Travel Agent & Owner Class' course, we offer supplier 'Travel Talk' webinars throughout the year. You'll have access to training programs through suppliers' agent portals, an annual conference for our host agency and consortium, and the opportunity to attend supplier-hosted agent events. As a travel advisor, you'll also have access to training from ASTA, CLIA, and The Travel Institute, though additional fees may apply for these programs.
What kind of support does LTA Central offer to its agents?
LTA Central provides support via email and phone during office hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm. We maintain an exclusive Facebook group for our independent contractors where information is shared and questions can be asked. For emergencies, we provide the cell phone numbers of our general manager and vice president.
Do you offer marketing programs?
Yes, through our parent company, Leisure Travel Alliance (LTA), a travel consortium, we offer a complimentary marketing program. This program includes customized email projects for individual agencies, with LTA managing design, production, and distribution. To participate, you'll need to provide a list of your contacts or clients with their email addresses.
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