Certification Program fee consultation feedback
TICO completed a month-long consultation with registrants and stakeholders about the fees associated with an enhanced version of the TICO Certification Program and exam that is currently in the final stages of development.
TICO consulted on a new exam fee of $150, replacing the previous $50 combination exam fee (or $35 to write the Travel Counsellor and Supervisor/Manager exams separately). TICO proposed that the rewrite fee increase from $24 to $50.
What we heard during the consultation:
Professionalism
75% of respondents believe TICO’s Certification Program is important in fostering professionalism and consumer protection.
Program enhancements
62% of respondents support the planned enhancements to the TICO Certification Program.
Fees
51% view the proposed fee as fair compared to other regulators, though support for the fee increase is divided (40% support, while 48% do not support the fee increase).
Written feedback
Supporters praised the program's modernization and its potential to elevate industry standards.
Critics voiced concerns about financial barriers for new entrants and questioned combining the Travel Counsellor and Supervisor/Manager content into one exam.
Next steps
“TICO values the feedback we received from industry and stakeholders, and we acknowledge there are some concerns about the proposed increase in fees,” said TICO CEO Richard Smart. “As the travel industry evolves, there is a strong opportunity to enhance the way we deliver regulatory and consumer protection information to new entrants to the industry. The new fee allows for a modernized program that sets individuals up for long-term success in a regulated industry.”
TICO thanks everyone who took the time to participate in the consultation earlier this year. The organization remains committed to monitoring feedback and ensuring the new program delivers value to advisors, agencies, and consumers.
More information about the transition to the new Certification Program will be shared in early November 2025.