What a certification number is
When a grading company (like PSA, BGS, CGC or SGC) evaluates a card, it seals it in a plastic case — the slab — and assigns it a unique certification number. That number identifies that specific card in the company's database, along with its grade and details.
It's the reference that lets you confirm a card really is what it claims to be, and not a tampered label or a counterfeit case.
Where to find it on the slab
The number is printed on the label inside the case, usually near the top or bottom, next to the grading company name and the grade (for example, "PSA 10"). Depending on the company it may be called "cert number", "serial" or "certification number".
How to verify it, step by step
Find the number on the label
Note it down exactly as shown, with no extra spaces or characters.
Check it in the grading company's official database
Each grading company has a public lookup tool. Enter the number and confirm the photo, card and grade shown match exactly what you're looking at.
Check it hasn't been reported as stolen
Enter the same number in CardLegit. If that card has been reported by its owner, we'll let you know before you complete the purchase.
Check a card now
Enter the certification number and we'll tell you if it's been reported as stolen.
searchVerify a card