Agents who work with actors and athletes are often licensed or franchised to work with the union or association to which the client belongs. For instance, the Screen Actors Guild and the National Football League Players Association both license or register an agent to work. Under a license or franchise, an agent agrees to follow standards set by a union to protect its members. For more information, contact the union or membership association that represents the performer or athlete.

Licensing or registration is not required for agents who represent writers.