What is a key characteristic of a travel agent identity card sold by Card Mills?

The key characteristic of a travel agent identity card sold by Card Mills is that it falsely represents employment in the travel industry. These cards are not legitimate credentials; instead, they are typically marketed as tools that may suggest to others, such as travel suppliers or businesses, that the holder is an authorized representative of the travel sector, even though they may not have any formal affiliation with a recognized travel agency.

This practice is misleading and can have serious ethical and legal implications. Individuals may use these cards to gain unauthorized discounts or access to travel industry resources, which can undermine trust within the industry. Authentic travel agents must have proper training, certification, and employment verification from legitimate travel agencies, distinguishing them from those who might possess these fraudulent cards.

The other options pertain to characteristics that do not apply to such identity cards. For example, they do not guarantee travel deals, nor are they a legal requirement for true travel agents. Furthermore, these cards are not issued by any government authority, emphasizing their lack of legitimacy in representing a professional status in the travel industry.