How to Submit a Card to PSA for Grading: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

A PSA grade can turn a raw card into a certified, tradeable asset — but the submission process has a lot of small steps, and getting them right protects both your card and your investment. Here's exactly how we do it, updated for PSA's current 2025 process.

Step 1: Inspect and Prep Your Card

Examine the card closely for imperfections — surface scratches, centering issues, or edge and corner wear — to decide if grading is worthwhile.
Clean the card gently with a microfiber cloth. Never use chemicals or cleaning solutions.
Place the card in a new penny sleeve, then into a Card Saver I (not a top loader — PSA requires the semi-rigid sleeve for submission).

Step 2: Register on PSA's Website

Go to psacard.com and create an account if you don't already have one.
From the menu, select Start Submission. This takes you to the PSA Online Submission Center, where you click New Submission.

Step 3: Enter Card Information and Select a Service

Select the item type: Trading Card Grading.
Choose your service level (Value, Value Plus, Regular, Express) based on the card's value and how fast you need it back.
Enter each card's details — year, brand, set, player, card number, and declared value. PSA's search will help autofill most of this.
Review and confirm your order.

Step 4: Payment and Submission Forms

Add a payment method. You're charged after grading is complete, not at submission.
Print the submission forms and any shipping labels PSA provides.
Sign both copies of the PSA form as instructed, and keep one for your records.

Step 5: Package Your Cards

Sandwich each card (in its penny sleeve and Card Saver I) between two pieces of cardboard and secure with rubber bands.
Place your cards and the printed submission form into a sturdy box.
For high-value submissions, double box — put the card box inside a slightly larger second box.
Clearly attach your submission ID or form on or inside the package.

Step 6: Ship It

Ship to the address on your PSA submission form using a trackable carrier (USPS, FedEx, or UPS), and insure anything valuable.
Hold onto your tracking number and paperwork until your cards are back in hand.

Step 7: Track Your Order

PSA updates your order status at each stage — received, research & ID, grading, assembly, QA check, and shipping — through their app and website. Once it's done, your cards ship back to you with tracking included.

This process applies whether you submit online or drop off at a PSA partner location. Always double-check PSA's current guidance before you ship, since service tiers and requirements shift from year to year.

Got a card you're on the fence about grading? Send us a message — we submit cards regularly and are always happy to talk through whether it's worth it for a specific card.