PSA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PSA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How does PSA handle an autograph submitted framed behind glass? → PSA requires the item to be removed from framing for proper examination
2. According to the PSA Grading Scale, what is the maximum centering tolerance on the front of a card to receive a GEM-MT 10 grade? → 55/45 percent
3. What is the highest grade a card can receive on the PSA grading scale? → PSA 10
4. A card graded PSA 5 is described as which condition on the grading scale? → Excellent
5. On the PSA scale, which numeric grade corresponds to Excellent-Mint? → PSA 7
6. What is the main purpose of ticket authentication? → To confirm the ticket’s authenticity and originality
7. Which PSA grade is assigned to a card described as Near Mint-Mint? → PSA 9
8. What does PSA look for under magnification along card edges to detect trimming? → Cut marks, uneven edge texture, or disturbed surface fibers
9. What is the declared value on a PSA submission form used for? → Calculating insurance coverage while the card is in PSA's custody
10. What does PSA do when a card is submitted that shows clear evidence of corner reconstruction? → Labels it PSA Authentic (Altered) and returns it in a special holder
11. A collector submits a signed helmet for PSA authentication and PSA returns it as Non-Authentic. What does this mean? → PSA believes the signature is a forgery, not signed by the purported individual
12. What key information must be included on a PSA submission form? → Card description, year, manufacturer, and declared value
13. PSA uses the ST qualifier on graded cards. What does ST stand for? → Stain
14. A PSA "Gem Mint 10" card must have what level of centering? → 55/45 or better
15. What does PSA's 'Economy' service level offer compared to standard service? → Longer turnaround time in exchange for lower per-card fees
16. Which of the following descriptions of edge wear would most likely correspond to a card graded PSA EX 5? → Minor chipping may be visible on the edges.
17. What is the primary purpose of PSA's 'Bulk' submission service tier? → For submitting large quantities of lower-value cards at a reduced per-card cost
18. A card with a large crease running through its center would most likely receive which PSA grade range? → PSA 1-2
19. What signature characteristic does PSA prioritize when examining an autograph under magnification? → Pen pressure variations, ink flow patterns, and entry/exit strokes
20. What is the highest grade a card can receive from PSA? → 10
21. What does PSA examine a card under UV light to detect? → Recoloring, artificial gloss, and surface chemical treatments
22. What is the label for PSA 5 on the grading scale? → Excellent
23. When PSA adds an MC qualifier to a grade, what does MC stand for? → Miscut
24. Which of the following companies is known for authenticating sports memorabilia? → PSA/DNA
25. What is 'pressing' as a form of card restoration? → Flattening a card to reduce or remove creases and wrinkles
26. What is the maximum allowable print defect for a card to achieve PSA 9? → One minor printing imperfection allowed
27. Which alteration involves rebuilding damaged card corners using glue, paper, or similar materials? → Corner reconstruction
28. The term 'chipping' when referring to edge wear on a trading card describes: → Tiny bits of material or surface color missing from the edges.
29. Which of these features can indicate a fake or counterfeit ticket? → Misspellings or blurry logos
30. Which side of a trading card typically has a looser centering standard in PSA grading? → Back