Header Image (Standards and Certification)
Logo Bottom
 Tour Director
 
A Tour Director:
 
  • leads, accompanies, and assists passengers on multi-day tours.
  • manages arrangements and services.
  • provides relevant information and commentary.
  • creates positive experiences for participants.
 
emerit Tour Director training will help you deliver memorable tours, build your reputation as a knowledgeable tourism professional, and guide you to becoming recognized as one of the top guided tours in your industry. 
 
To receive Professional Certification as a Tour Director, you must successfully complete an occupational knowledge exam, performance evaluation, and work experience.
 
Occupational Knowledge Exam: This 100-question multiple choice exam is based on the National Occupational Standard for Tour Directors.
 
Performance Evaluation: The performance evaluation consists of an incognito and informed observation.  The evaluator will observe you on the first departure day out of the city during a check-out activity and during the orientation of the day’s itinerary. 
 
Work Experience: You must complete a minimum of 80 hours (conducting out-of-town tours of a minimum of three overnight stays) within the past three years of beginning the certification process.
 
Prerequisites: None. 
 
For more information, click here.
Quick Facts
The difference between a Tour Director and a Tour Guide is that Tour Directors take travellers on multi-day tours and Tour Guides take visitors on tours no longer than a day in length.




Industry Professionals Say
"
The certification process through STEC has given my staff and me the skills to take our services from good to great.  Certified Tour Guides and Directors know exactly what is expected of them.  Now that we've expanded our operations to event and  conference management, everyone on staff must meet the same standards of excellence with the Event Coordinator and Event Manager certification.  It's great to have access to quality courses that  are affordable and offer flexibility. "
Claire Belanger-Parker, TCP, TCM
President, CNT Management Group
emerit-Certified Tour Guide, Tour Director, Event Coordinator, and Event Manager