Sports Agents

Certification or Licensing

Many sports agents obtain a license or professional certification or registration as demonstration of their commitment and integrity. Although these are not yet mandatory, it is one way for athletes to determine who, among agents, is legitimate and therefore a better person to hire. Agents working for clients who belong to unions, such as the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), are required to obtain certification or a union franchise. Basically, agents who obtain certification or a franchise agree to abide by the standards created by the union to protect its members. To become certified by the NFLPA, for example, agents must pay a nonrefundable application fee of $2,500, have an undergraduate AND post-graduate degree (master's or law), participate in a two-day seminar, and pass a written examination.

Agents who start their own firms may need a business license in certain states. Contact your state’s department of professional regulation for information on requirements in your state.