How Do I Get a CLIA Number?
Getting a Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) certification can help your travel agency in a number of ways. It lets potential clients know that you're legitimate, gives you access to training materials and helps you get your commissions more quickly. The most important part of your certification is your CLIA number, which travel suppliers will usually ask for when processing a reservation from you. Getting this number is not difficult -- it just takes some time to process.
Basics
Open your web browser and go to Cruising.org. Click on Agencies and Agents. Click on the Join CLIA Today! link, then click Learn more about Agency Membership on the left-hand menu if you're applying on behalf of your travel agency. If you're an individual member, click on Join CLIA Today if you want to apply online or Download PDF Application if you prefer to fill out and mail a print application.
Applying
Fill out the online or print form with your agency's contact and billing information for annual dues. You'll need to pay your annual dues plus a one-time activation fee with your application. As of Decmber 2009, CLIA accepts check, Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Read the CLIA Conditions of Membership (see Resources section) to make sure you can comply with the conditions listed there. Send in your form to CLIA.
Additional Benefits
If you're applying for an agency membership, you're entitled to up to four photo identification cards for your staff at a reduced rate. Keep the email that you get confirming your membership, as it contains a promotional code you can use to order these cards.
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