Accountable traffic destruction/return

The VTC program is designed for travel professionals who want to enjoy the benefits of ARC participation but do not issue tickets for airline, rail, or bus carriers.

As a new participant, you will need to download and complete a VTC application and review the VTC Handbook. To ensure a quick and speedy response, we recommend completing the entire application kit before submitting it. If you are currently an ARC Agent who seeks to re-classify as a VTC, read the FAQs on reclassification below.

Program Criteria

To participate as a VTC, the applicant must:

• Be a single location with no branches
• Be a business entity with a valid IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Taxpayer Identification Number
• Have a valid business license or permit as required by the jurisdiction where the VTC is located
• Provide ARC with a designated bank account which ARC may debit (draft) and credit

DOWNLOAD VTC
APPLICATION

The VTC application fee is $100. The annual fee for a VTC is $150.

What to expect after applying

1. Once the application is received, it is reviewed for completeness and compliance with the VTC requirements the initial review process typically occurs within ten days of ARC receiving the application.
2. After the initial review, an ARC representative may call you to discuss your application.
3. ARC will also send a follow-up letter confirming the status of your application and advising you of any needed additional information.

Application FAQs

What is the difference between Accredited Agent and VTC access to ARC's systems and agent products?

VTCs have access to the Travel Agent Service Fee (TASF) program through Agent's Choice. VTCs have access to most of the offerings on ARC MarketPlace (they will not be able to issue Greyhound bus line tickets). VTCs have a maximum transaction limit of $500 of TASF transactions per week and $50 per transaction.

What are the benefits of the VTC program and what makes it different from other programs?

Participation in the VTC program provides VTCs with access to commissionable ARC's products and services such as ARC's Travel Agent Service Fee program (TASF), ARC MarketPlace, and ARC Travel Card. Additionally, VTCs are included on the ARC Agency List which is recognized by industry suppliers. The ARC VTC does not require any minimum sales or investments.

What if I decide to become and Accredited Agent after approval as a VTC?

You would need to complete and submit the New Agent Application and meet certain personnel standards (to include an ARC Specialist), provide a bond, letter of credit or cash deposit in the minimum amount of $20,000. For more, contact us at adm@arccorp.com or review the new agent requirements at the travel agency accreditation page.

I'm a Reservation Service Provider (RSP). How do I become a VTC?

You should submit a new VTC application. The reclassification form only applies to Accredited Agencies who seek to reclassify as VTCs.

Reclassification of an Agency as a VTC

I'm an Accredited Agent. How do I become a VTC?

You must complete the VTC reclassification application and submit it to ARC along with the application fee. The statement of ownership form must match ARC's current records for your agency. You must also complete the Affidavit for Accountable Traffic Document Destruction/Return Form.

I'm a Reservation Service Provider (RSP). How do I become a VTC?

You should submit a new VTC application. The reclassification form only applies to Accredited Agencies who seek to reclassify as VTCs.

Can I keep the ARC number assigned to my agency if my VTC reclassification application is approved?

Yes.

As a VTC do I have to submit a weekly IAR sales report?

Only if you issued ARC Service Fee transactions through Agent's Choice or received payment for ARC Marketplace transactions.

I was an Accredited Agent but voluntarily cancelled my Agent Reporting Agreement. If I become a VTC, can I use my old ARC number?

No. Because you will be approved as a new VTC participant, you will be assigned a new ARC number for the VTC location.

Can a branch location apply to become a VTC?

No. The VTC reclassification program is only available to independent agents.