How to Submit Cards to PSA (Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners)
If you’ve decided to grade your cards, the next step is submitting them — but the process can feel confusing if you’ve never done it before.
How do you actually submit cards to PSA?
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to submit cards to Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), from preparing your cards to shipping them safely.
Not sure if your card is worth grading before submitting?
👉 Is This Card Worth Grading?
Quick Answer: How to Submit Cards to PSA
To submit cards to PSA, create an account, choose a service level, enter your card details, place cards in penny sleeves and Card Saver holders, package them securely, and ship them with tracking and insurance.
✓ Create PSA account
✓ Choose service level
✓ Enter card details
✓ Sleeve + Card Saver
✓ Package securely
✓ Ship with tracking
Step 1: Create a PSA Account
To begin, you’ll need to create an account on PSA’s website. Once registered, you’ll be able to access submission forms, track your orders, and manage your grading activity.
Step 2: Choose Your Service Level
PSA offers multiple grading tiers depending on the value of your cards and how quickly you want them graded.
- Value / Bulk → lower cost, slower turnaround
- Standard → moderate speed and cost
- Express → fastest but most expensive
👉 Read: How Much Does PSA Grading Cost
👉 Read: How Long Does PSA Grading Take
Step 3: Enter Your Cards in the Submission Form
You’ll need to enter details for each card you’re submitting.
- Player name
- Card set and year
- Card number
- Declared value
Take your time to ensure accuracy — mistakes can cause delays.
Step 4: Prepare Your Cards Properly
Using the right supplies helps prevent damage and ensures your cards are accepted by PSA.
- Place cards in penny sleeves
- Insert into Card Saver I holders
- Avoid using top loaders for submission
- Keep cards clean and dry
👉 See recommended grading tools

Step 5: Package Your Cards for Shipping
Once your cards are prepared, you’ll need to package them securely.
- Stack cards neatly
- Use cardboard protection
- Wrap securely to prevent movement
- Place inside a sturdy box
Step 6: Ship Your Submission to PSA
Send your package using a reliable shipping service with tracking and insurance.
For collectors in Canada, consider:
- shipping costs
- customs/duties
- longer transit times
Always insure your shipment based on the total value of your cards.
For Canadian collectors, consider longer shipping times, customs processing, and potential duties when sending cards to PSA.
What Happens After You Submit?
After PSA receives your cards, they go through several stages:
- Order received
- Processing
- Grading
- Encapsulation
- Shipping back
👉 Read: How Long Does PSA Grading Take
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using top loaders instead of Card Savers
- Underestimating card value
- Poor packaging
- Submitting damaged cards
Final Thoughts
Submitting cards to PSA may seem complicated at first, but once you understand the process, it becomes straightforward.
Preparation and accuracy are the keys to a smooth grading experience.
Next Step
Not sure if your card is worth grading before submitting?
