Where To Submit PSA Autographed Cards

If you've got ink on cardboard, whether it's a pack-pulled rookie auto or a vintage in-person signature, the big question is where to submit PSA autographed cards so you get the right service, the right label, and the right value. This guide breaks down your PSA options, how and where to submit in the U.S. and abroad, what PSA will (and won't) accept, and how to prep your cards so they arrive safely and come back slabbed the way you intended.

At CardChasers, we help collectors navigate this every day, live on stream and in-store. If you want a done-for-you experience, our team can help PSA submissions end-to-end (form to final slab). You can start on our grading page, browse wax and singles in our store, or catch us live on Whatnot when you're ready to chase your next on-card auto.

Know Your PSA Options

Before you send anything, decide exactly what you want PSA to do. There's more than one path to a PSA label when an autograph is involved.

PSA/DNA Autograph Authentication

PSA's PSA/DNA division authenticates signatures, on cards, photos, balls, bats, you name it. For cards specifically, the typical output is:

  • An "AUTHENTIC AUTO" designation with a PSA/DNA certification number (sometimes in a slab, sometimes as a sticker/cert).

  • Optional autograph grading (a numeric grade for the signature quality itself).

Use PSA/DNA Autograph Authentication when the card's condition isn't your priority, or the card has been handled enough that the signature is the star. Example: a 1970s Topps base card signed in-person by a Hall of Famer.

Card Grading With Autograph Grade

If you care about the card grade and the signature, choose PSA Card Grading with Auto Grade. PSA will:

  • Authenticate the autograph.

  • Grade the card (10–1 scale) and optionally the auto (10–1), e.g., "PSA 9 | Auto 10."

This is common for modern pack-pulled autos (Topps Chrome, Prizm, Immaculate, PMG autos, etc.). It's also the best choice if you're targeting maximum resale value.

Dual Service And Crossover Scenarios

Dual Service covers situations where you need both the signature authenticated and the card graded in one order. If your card is already in another company's holder (BGS/SGC) and you want it to become a PSA card with the auto recognized, you'll choose a crossover. PSA will only crack and slab it if it meets your crossover minimum, be realistic when setting that number. If you only want PSA to authenticate the auto on a non-PSA slab, you'll still be in a crossover lane but focused on signature authentication outcomes.

Tip: If you're unsure which path fits your card, snap clear photos (front/back, signature close-up) and ask a trusted submitter. At CardChasers, we review these daily and recommend the right lane for value and turnaround.

The Main Ways To Submit

You've got four practical routes. Pick the one that fits your timeline, budget, and comfort level.

Direct Online Mail-In To PSA

  • Create a PSA account, complete the online submission, print your forms, and ship directly to PSA.

  • Pros: Full control, transparent order tracking, access to every service level.

  • Cons: You're responsible for packing, declared values, insurance choices, and customs if you're outside the U.S.

Best for collectors who are experienced, or who have a small number of cards and want to manage the details themselves.

Drop-Off With An Authorized Dealer

Authorized Dealers can intake your cards, confirm service levels, and ship on your behalf. Some offer pre-screening, paperwork help, and bulk rates.

  • Pros: Fewer mistakes, local hand-off, advice on declared value and service tier.

  • Cons: Dealer handling fees: you're trusting their pipeline.

If you're in the Greater Montreal Area, you can drop your order with CardChasers in Laval. We're an Upper Deck Certified Diamond Dealer and help PSA submissions regularly, come by in person or start through our grading page to see options.

Group Submissions Through Trusted Facilitators

A well-run group sub can reduce shipping cost per card, leverage negotiated rates, and streamline paperwork. Look for:

  • Clear intake procedures and itemized manifests.

  • Insurance details spelled out in writing.

  • Transparent timelines and communication.

CardChasers runs organized grading batches and can fold your PSA autos into our next outgoing shipment. If you pulled your auto with us live, we can even sleeve, semi-rigid, and submit directly from the rip.

On-Site Submissions At Shows And Signings

PSA offers on-site intake at major card shows and sometimes provides same-show or priority service for a higher fee. This is ideal when:

  • You want quick authentication for a same-weekend sale.

  • You're getting a live signature and want PSA/DNA Witnessed authentication on the spot (when available).

Check PSA's events calendar before you travel. If you're planning a big submission, pre-fill your forms to avoid lines.

Where To Submit In The United States

You don't need to live near PSA to submit, but knowing the channels helps you plan cost and speed.

Mailing To PSA's Grading Facilities

PSA's primary intake is via mail-in to their U.S. facilities. After you complete the online submission, PSA provides the correct shipping address tied to your order and service level. Always use the address on your form, do not improvise, and match the declared value and service you chose online.

Packing pointers:

  • Use semi-rigids (Card Savers) or top loaders in team bags: never raw in a box.

  • Separate orders with rubber bands and index cards labeled with the order number.

  • Double-box with plenty of cushioning and use a trackable, insured service.

Finding Local Authorized Dealers And Hobby Shops

If you'd rather hand your cards to a real person, search PSA's Authorized Dealer directory for shops that handle autograph authentication and grading. Ask about:

  • Experience with signed cards, especially vintage ink.

  • Whether they pre-screen for realistic declared value.

  • Turnaround expectations and how they package/insure shipments.

If you're visiting Montreal or you're local to Laval, you can bring your cards to CardChasers any day of the week. We can walk you through service levels, help determine if an autograph grade makes sense, and send your order with our next shipment. You can also browse wax and singles while you're here, or online through our store, to keep your chase going.

National Card Shows With On-Site Intake

At the biggest U.S. events, like The National, PSA typically runs on-site intake and may offer limited on-site grading or show special turnarounds for premium tiers. Bring:

  • Pre-filled submission forms and your PSA account number.

  • A sturdy card case and sleeves/semi-rigids.

  • A plan for declared values (check recent comps before you go).

For live signings, PSA/DNA often offers Witnessed authentication. That means a PSA representative observes the signing, and your slab will note "PSA/DNA Certified – Witnessed," which can carry a premium in the market.

International Submission Options

Outside the U.S.? You've got practical paths that avoid customs headaches and long solo shipments.

Regional Hubs And Authorized Partners

PSA operates regional offices and works with authorized partners to accept submissions. Common routes include:

  • PSA Europe (with intake in the EU) to reduce cross-border friction and VAT complexity.

  • PSA Japan intake for collectors across Asia.

  • Trusted third-party facilitators that batch submissions to PSA U.S., often with negotiated shipping and insurance.

Wherever you are, you can also ship to a facilitator you trust. At CardChasers, we regularly assist collectors across Canada and internationally, contact us on our grading page and we'll map the most efficient route for your situation.

Customs, VAT, And Return Shipping Considerations

  • Declare properly: You're sending a temporary export for service, not a sale. Use accurate descriptions and values.

  • Keep proofs: Include your submission paperwork and keep copies for re-entry.

  • Understand VAT/duties: Some regions assess taxes on the service portion: some don't. Ask your courier or broker.

  • Return logistics: Decide if you want PSA to return directly to you or back to your facilitator. Consolidated returns can save money and reduce loss risk.

Step-By-Step: Preparing Your Autographed Cards

Even great cards can be delayed, or damaged, by sloppy prep. Here's a clean checklist.

Choosing The Correct Service Level

  • Declared Value drives pricing and routing. Be honest and use recent comps. If the signature creates a big premium (e.g., on-card rookie), factor that in.

  • Choose PSA/DNA Authentication if the card grade doesn't matter much. Choose Card Grading + Auto Grade if condition plus the auto both impact resale.

  • Vintage or rare signers sometimes warrant higher service levels for faster handling and security.

Pro tip: If your comps are borderline between tiers, consider the higher service. It can reduce upcharge surprises and speed routing.

Completing The Online Submission Form Accurately

  • Set the service type correctly: "Card Grading with Autograph Authentication," "Autograph Authentication," "Dual Service," or "Crossover."

  • Enter exact card details: year, brand, set, player, and any serial numbering.

  • Autograph specifics: on-card vs. sticker: pack-pulled vs. in-person. If you're submitting for a Witnessed program, follow the event instructions.

  • Declared Value: select per card, not just the order total.

At CardChasers, we double-check your entries before shipping. Tiny mistakes (wrong set number, missing parallel) can lead to delays.

Packing, Insurance, And Labeling For Safe Transit

  • Card protection: Penny sleeve + semi-rigid is the gold standard. For thick patch autos, use a properly sized top loader with a team bag: add cardboard shims so it can't slide.

  • Order separation: Group each order with its printed form and a separator card showing your order number.

  • Box it right: Inner box with cushioning inside a larger outer box. No room for rattling. Seal seams and edges.

  • Labels: Put the PSA-provided label on the outside if instructed. Don't handwrite random notes on the box.

  • Insurance: Insure for declared value, not your purchase price. Photograph contents before sealing for your records.

What PSA Will Accept (And What They Won’t)

Autographed cards span pack-pulled, event-signed, and everything in between. PSA treats them differently depending on provenance and signer.

Pack-Pulled Autos Versus In-Person Signatures

  • Pack-pulled autos from licensed products are straightforward. PSA recognizes them as manufacturer-certified signatures and can grade the card and auto together.

  • In-person signatures require PSA/DNA authentication. If authenticated, PSA can then grade the card (if you selected that service) and add an Auto grade if you requested it.

Smudged or streaky ink can still authenticate, but it may receive a lower auto grade. If eye appeal matters, you might skip the auto grade and authenticate only.

Raw, Slabbed, And Previously Authenticated Items

  • Raw cards: Submit in semi-rigids: PSA handles the rest.

  • Slabbed by other companies: Use Crossover. PSA will only crack if the result meets your minimum. Otherwise, it returns intact.

  • Previously PSA/DNA authenticated: You can resubmit for card grading and carry over the signature authentication, depending on the original cert. Make sure to reference your certification numbers on the form.

Signers And Items PSA Does Not Authenticate

PSA maintains a no-grade/no-authenticate list for certain signers and item types. Reasons vary (insufficient exemplars, known issues, or program limitations). Before you pay shipping, search PSA's database for the signer. If it's a tough or obscure in-person auto, ask a facilitator to pre-screen. We routinely flag problem signers so you don't waste fees.

Turnaround Times, Fees, And Upcharges

Budget and timing hinge on declared value, service choice, and the card's outcome.

How Declared Value Impacts Pricing And Routing

PSA tiers are built around maximum declared value caps. In general:

  • Lower tiers (often labeled Value/Economy) are for lower-declared-value items and have longer turnarounds.

  • Mid tiers (Regular/Express) cost more but move faster and include higher insurance/handling thresholds.

  • Premium tiers (Super Express/Walk-Through) prioritize speed and high-value handling.

Autograph-only services (PSA/DNA) have their own fee tables tied to the signer's market, item type, and whether a Witnessed program applies.

When Upcharges Happen And How To Avoid Surprises

If PSA determines your card's true market value after grading exceeds the tier cap, they'll assess an upcharge to the appropriate tier. You'll be notified before finalization.

To minimize surprises:

  • Set a realistic declared value based on recent comps (not wishful thinking).

  • If you expect a big grade bump, choose a higher tier to start.

  • For uncertain markets, consult a facilitator. We'll look at grade sensitivity and recommend the safest lane.

Remember: Upcharges are frustrating, but they also mean your card likely performed well, often a good problem to have.

Common Scenarios And Where To Send Them

Here's how we route the most frequent autograph-card situations.

Vintage Hall Of Famers And Older Ink

Scenario: A 1956 Topps signed by a Hall of Famer at a show decades ago.

  • Best path: PSA/DNA Authentication + Card Grading (if the card condition matters). If the card is rounded or creased, consider authentication-only or card graded as "AUTH" with an Auto grade.

  • Service level: Mid to premium, depending on signer scarcity and value. Vintage ink tends to command premiums when authenticated.

  • Where to submit: Mail-in to PSA or through an experienced dealer who understands vintage. We handle vintage daily, drop by CardChasers or coordinate via our grading page.

Modern Rookie Autos And Patch Cards

Scenario: A pack-pulled on-card rookie auto /99 or a thick RPA.

  • Best path: Card Grading with Auto Grade. Buyers expect a numeric card grade on modern.

  • Service level: Value or Regular based on comps: thick cards sometimes benefit from a sturdier handling tier.

  • Where to submit: Direct mail-in works great. If you pulled it during a live break, a facilitator can submit from the stream so it never risks extra handling.

Tip: If you love the auto but the card has a surface scratch, consider "Authentic Card | Auto 10." The gem auto grade can still drive demand.

Multi-Signed And Inscribed Cards

Scenario: Dual autos, triple autos, "HOF 03" inscriptions.

  • Best path: Dual Service so both the signatures and the card details are captured properly. If you plan to add more signatures later, ask about reholdering after additional signings.

  • Service level: Often mid-tier, but value can spike: leave room for upcharges.

  • Where to submit: On-site at shows can be strategic if you're coordinating multiple in-person signings with Witnessed authentication. Otherwise, mail-in with meticulous packing to avoid pressure on thick stock or foil.

We've helped clients plan multi-signer projects over months, lining up witness opportunities, then submitting once complete for a single, clean slab.

Conclusion

Submitting PSA autographed cards comes down to matching your goal to the right service: authenticate-only when the signature is the star, card grading with auto grade when condition matters, and dual or crossover options for edge cases. From there, choose your lane, direct mail-in, dealer drop-off, group sub, or on-site intake, and pack like a pro.

If you want it handled by people who live and breathe the hobby, CardChasers has you. We can review photos, advise on declared value, prep your cards, and route them via the most efficient service level. Swing by our Laval shop any day, catch our live breaks to pull your next grail, or start your submission online, your chase, your pace, our expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to submit PSA autographed cards?

You can submit PSA autographed cards via four main routes: direct online mail-in to PSA, drop-off with an Authorized Dealer, group submissions through trusted facilitators, or on-site intake at major card shows. Choose based on your timeline, comfort with paperwork, shipping/insurance needs, and whether you want in-person guidance.

What’s the difference between PSA/DNA Autograph Authentication and Card Grading with Auto Grade?

PSA/DNA authenticates the signature and can provide an autograph grade; it’s ideal when card condition isn’t the priority. Card Grading with Auto Grade authenticates the auto and also grades the card (and optionally the auto), maximizing resale value for pack-pulled or condition-sensitive cards.

How should I pack and ship autographed cards to PSA safely?

Use a penny sleeve plus a semi-rigid (Card Saver). For thick patch autos, use a snug top loader in a team bag with cardboard shims. Separate orders, include printed forms, double-box with cushioning, seal all seams, and ship trackable with insurance equal to declared value. Avoid loose, rattling space.

Can I crossover a BGS or SGC slab to PSA and keep the autograph recognized?

Yes. Choose PSA’s Crossover service and set a minimum grade. PSA will only crack and reholder if it meets your minimum; otherwise, it returns intact. You can request autograph authentication and an auto grade so the new PSA label reflects the signature on your autographed cards.

How long does PSA autograph authentication and grading take?

Turnaround depends on service tier, declared value, order volume, and whether it’s PSA/DNA or card grading. Value/Economy tiers can take several weeks or longer; mid-tier often returns faster; premium tiers prioritize speed. On-site shows may offer expedited options. Always check PSA’s current timelines before submitting.

How much does it cost to submit PSA autographed cards?

Costs vary by service type (PSA/DNA vs. card grading with auto grade), declared value tier, signer, and any on-site or premium options. Expect higher fees for high-value items and faster tiers. Upcharges can apply if the final market value exceeds your tier cap. Review PSA’s current fee schedule before shipping.

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