TICO Certification Program
Introducing the TICO Certification Program and Exam
As the travel industry continues to evolve, TICO is launching an enhanced Certification Program for individuals aspiring to become Travel Counsellors and agency Supervisors/Managers.
- There are no new requirements for individuals who are already Certified.
- Existing Certifications remain valid – no re-testing is required.
- The new program fee reflects the cost of developing, operating and maintaining a modernized Certification Program.
Transition at-a-glance
- January 4, 2026: Last day to sign up and pay for the existing Travel Counsellor, Supervisor/Manager or combination exam at the existing fee structure. You will have six months from the time you pay for the exam to complete it. Re-takes for failed attempts will continue to be available until December 31, 2026.
- January 5, 2026: All Certification Program sign-ups on or after this date will automatically be registered for the new TICO Certification Program and exam at the new fee structure.
For more details about the transition, please visit our frequently asked questions.
What’s new
- Interactive e-learning program: Focus on applying regulatory consumer protection content to day-to-day interactions (no longer memorization based), with knowledge checks along the way.
- One comprehensive exam: covering both the Travel Counsellor and Supervisor/Manager Certifications together to ensure a comprehensive understanding of regulatory requirements and consumer protection principles. Program content has been restructured, streamlined and made more straightforward. The goal is to make the learning experience easier to follow and more relevant for today’s travel industry and travel professionals.
- Modern, user-friendly interface: Interactive modules, practice materials and questions, and accessibility features, developed in conjunction with a leading adult education provider.
Fee structure
| Program Component | Existing Fee (Until January 4, 2026) | New Fee (As of January 5, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Counsellor Exam | $35 | N/A – will offer as combination exam |
| Supervisor/Manager Exam | $35 | N/A – will offer as combination exam |
| Combination Exam | $50 | $150 |
| Exam Re-Write Fee | $24 (Will continue to be available until December 31, 2026) |
$50 |
Curriculum
The new Certification Program features a streamlined curriculum that has been re-organized to be more focused, straightforward and clear.
Learners will spend less time memorizing content and more time understanding how Ontario’s consumer protection regulations apply to real scenarios.
This new approach ensures that every travel professional, regardless of their role, gains a deeper understanding of the responsibilities that support regulatory compliance and consumer protection.
For more information
- Frequently asked questions, including transition information
- Notice of Fee Change, detailing the updated fee information
- Summary of consultation feedback, detailing what we heard from industry and stakeholders
Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact