What Are the Benefits of Having an EMARC ID Card from CLIA?
Q: What is an EMARC ID Card?
The EMARC ID Card, issued by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), is a credential that identifies you as a certified travel advisor in the cruise and travel industry. It’s a valuable tool that establishes your professional credibility and demonstrates your commitment to the travel trade.
Q: What are the benefits of having an EMARC ID Card?
Having an EMARC ID Card can offer several benefits, including:
Professional Recognition: The card is widely recognized by cruise lines, travel suppliers, and industry organizations as a mark of professionalism.
Increased Credibility with Clients: Displaying your EMARC ID can reassure clients that you are an authorized and knowledgeable travel advisor.
Access to Industry Perks: You may be eligible for supplier-specific perks, discounts, and incentives such as discounted cruises, travel rates, or familiarization (FAM) trips designed to help you better understand the products you sell.
Maximizing the value of an EMARC ID Card: Regularly check with individual suppliers or consult CLIA’s resources to understand what benefits might be available. Network with supplier representatives to learn about exclusive opportunities. Many suppliers offer additional perks to advisors who have completed their certification programs or training modules.
Q: Do I need to have my own EMBARC ID from C.L.I.A. to book travel and earn commissions?
No, you do not need your own CLIA membership to book travel and earn commissions if you work with a host agency. When you’re affiliated with a host agency, you use their CLIA credentials to access supplier systems, make bookings, and earn commissions. The host agency’s CLIA membership is sufficient for you to operate as a travel advisor under their accreditation. Here’s how it works:
Booking Travel: Your host agency’s CLIA number is used to identify the booking and track commissions.
Earning Commissions: Commissions from your bookings are routed through the host agency, which ensures proper crediting to you.
Access to Tools: Many host agencies provide their agents with access to preferred suppliers and tools, eliminating the need for you to hold your own CLIA membership.
Q: Are the perks and discounts guaranteed with an EMARC ID?
No, the availability of perks, discounts, or benefits is entirely at the discretion of the supplier. Not all suppliers participate, and even among those that do, the perks can vary widely based on their current policies, promotions, and availability. For example:
A cruise line might offer a discount during certain times of the year but not during peak seasons.
Some suppliers might have requirements, such as completing their training or having a certain level of sales, before granting discounts or perks.
Airline bookings typically don’t have special discounts or perks associated with a CLIA card. Most airlines don’t offer reduced rates for travel advisors unless it’s part of a specific program (e.g., familiarization trips or training completions).
CLIA card benefits are not guaranteed for all bookings or suppliers. Each supplier decides what, if any, perks or benefits they offer, and these are subject to change.
Q: Should I promise my clients discounts or special perks because I have an EMARC ID Card?
Absolutely not. The benefits associated with the card are for your professional development and are not intended to be used as a guarantee to clients. Always check the terms and conditions for any supplier offer before sharing information.
If you want to enhance your professional credibility or access specific CLIA member benefits (like training, FAM trips, or a CLIA card for personal travel perks), you can opt to purchase an individual CLIA membership. However, it’s not required to book travel or earn commissions while working under a host agency.
Remember, the EMARC ID Card is a tool to enhance your professionalism and industry access, not a guarantee of discounts or perks. Its true value lies in how you leverage it as part of your overall expertise and commitment to being a top-notch travel advisor.
Steps to Apply for and Pay for Your EMBARC ID (C.L.I.A. Card)
To apply for your EMBARC ID through C.L.I.A. (Cruise Lines International Association) as an Independent Travel Advisor, follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Visit the CLIA Website Cruising.org – this is the official website for CLIA.
Step 2: Start Your Application
Step 3: Enter Host Agency Details
Step 4: Submit Payment
Step 5: RSI Approval & Activation
- After payment, RSI Vacations must approve your application before CLIA finalizes your membership.
- RSI typically processes approvals once per week (usually on Fridays).
- Once approved, you will receive an email confirmation from CLIA when your membership is active.
Step 6: Access & Print Your EMBARC ID
- Once active, log into Cruising.org and navigate to My CLIA to check your status.
- If available, download or print your EMBARC ID from your account.