Additional Information
There are no specific educational requirements to work as a tour guide.
Tour guides learn their work through on-the-job training, or through training
courses provided by their employer.
In some areas, local community colleges offer tour guide training. "My
husband and I took training when we opened our business," says self-employed
tour guide Cheryl Sampson. "We wanted to know as much as possible about the
field."
Tour guide Don Dietz says some cities have licensing requirements for tour
guides, but they are in the minority. In some areas, professional associations
offer certification. "We are still a small profession," he says.
Driver-guides might require a special driver's license, depending on the
size of the vehicle that they drive, according to Jeff Veniot, a tour guide.
"We have to keep up on what is happening in our region," adds Veniot. "Our
local guide organization plans trips to various attractions so we can keep
ourselves current."
Tour guides must have excellent people skills, be able to communicate effectively
and have a good sense of humor. Joining Toastmasters or any organization that
gives you experience in speaking before a group would be a good thing, says
Dietz.
"You also need to be flexible, because things can change quickly," said
Stefanie Beninato, a self-employed tour guide in New Mexico.