How to Register to Become a Sports Agent

In "Jerry Maguire," an idealistic sports agent forms a unique bond with his only client, an NFL wide receiver. Their personal relationship is what many young agents envision when they enter the profession. But registering to become a sports agent involves navigating through organizational and state regulations first. Because of that, a law degree or experience in legal practice is advisable.

Instructions

1. Apply with the organization that certifies agents. The structure changes from league to league. For instance, the National Basketball Players Association certifies agents that represent NBA players. Fees for application sometimes run as high as $1000 and deadlines apply. The National Football League Players Association registers agents Jan. 1-31, and charges a $1,000 fee.

2. Take any exams required for registration. The NFLPA, for example, has a standard 60-question exam that tests your knowledge of regulations. If you fail to pass the exam, you will often have to wait until the next year to retake the exam.

3. Attend any required seminars or other meetings prospective agents have to attend. These meetings serve to orientate agents to the expectations of the major league sports world.

4. Register with the athlete's state, if the athlete has not "gone professional" yet. You do not have to register in a particular state, unless the athlete has not entered the professional league already. If you represent veterans, you do not need to register in the athlete's state. Many states have adopted the Uniform Athlete Agent Act of 2000 (UAAA), which standardizes the requirements for agents.

References

• Become a Sports Agent
• Sports Agent Blog
• jobboom: Dream Careers--Sports Agent