What Is a Psychiatric Service Dog Letter?
A Psychiatric Service Dog letter (PSD letter) serves as supporting documentation from a licensed mental health professional. It provides reassurance and evidence that your psychiatric service dog is part of your treatment plan.
PSD owners are expected to accurately represent that their dog is trained to carry out tasks that mitigate their disability. For air travel, current federal rules require PSD owners to complete Department of Transportation (DOT) forms, making official self-certifications about their eligibility and their dog’s training.
Apply Online for PSD Letter in 4 Quick Steps
You’re just a few steps away:
- Complete a quick online questionnaire (eligibility check).
- Book a call with a licensed therapist.
- If approved, finalize your request and payment.
- Receive your PSD letter by email within 24 hours (an optional hard copy will be mailed).
If your PSD letter is not approved, we offer a full refund.
Are You Eligible for a PSD Letter?
If you live with a mental or emotional health condition recognized in the DSM-5, you may qualify for a PSD letter. A licensed therapist will review your history, symptoms, and needs to determine whether a task-trained psychiatric service dog can meaningfully support your daily functioning and well-being.
Common qualifying conditions include:
If any of these apply, you could qualify for documentation that helps with housing accommodations and day-to-day access needs. Take the first step; our team is ready to help you move forward.
Get Your Professional PSD Letter TodayYour Rights As a PSD Owner Under Major Laws
Under U.S. federal law, PSDs are recognized as service animals. Trained PSDs are allowed in most public spaces, and housing providers must consider reasonable accommodation requests without charging pet fees.
PSD Law Protections
Here are the key regulations of major federal laws which provide protections to PSD owners:
- Public access (ADA): Most businesses and state/local services must permit your trained PSD anywhere the public may go. When the need isn’t obvious, staff may ask only two questions: whether the dog is required because of a disability and what tasks it is trained to perform. No special ID, vest, or “registration” can be required.
- Housing (FHA): Landlords and HOAs must review reasonable accommodation requests for assistance animals (including service dogs). They cannot charge pet fees or pet rent. If your disability or need isn’t apparent, they may request limited, relevant documentation.
- State-level rules: Many states echo federal protections and may impose penalties for misrepresenting a pet as a service animal. Check your state statute/citation for exact language.
PSD Air Travel Rules (DOT Requirements 2025)
Flying with a Psychiatric service dog comes with specific Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. These rules are designed to ensure safe, comfortable travel for both passengers and service animals. Unlike ESAs, psychiatric service dogs are still protected under federal law, but you must meet certain requirements.
If you’re planning to travel by air with your PSD, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Airlines require the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form before boarding.
- For flights longer than 8 hours, a relief attestation may be required to confirm your dog can travel without issues.
- A PSD letter alone is not enough; you must also provide proof that your dog is trained to perform tasks for your disability.
- Emotional support animals are no longer accepted for air travel under DOT rules.
Always check your airline’s service animal policies in advance to avoid last-minute problems at the airport.
Why Choose RealESALetter.com for Your PSD Letter?
- Licensed and Verified Mental Health Therapists
- Real and Thorough Clinical Evaluations
- HIPAA-Secure Online Patient Portal
- Fast and Reliable Letter Turnaround
- Compliance-Ready Legal Documentation Provided
- Clear and Transparent Service Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my therapist write me a PSD letter?
Yes. Licensed mental health professionals, including therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, can write PSD letters. Primary care doctors may also write them, though many people prefer working with mental health specialists.
How can I get a PSD letter?
The process starts with a consultation with a licensed provider. If you meet the requirements, the provider will complete an evaluation and issue your PSD letter, usually within 24–48 hours.
How long is a PSD letter valid?
Most providers recommend a PSD letter renewal every 12 months to keep your documentation valid and up to date.
Can I use a PSD letter for air travel?
No. Airlines require the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form and proof that your dog is task-trained. A PSD letter alone is not enough. ESAs are not accepted for flights.
Do I need a PSD letter before or after adopting my dog?
You may obtain a PSD letter either before or after adopting your dog. However, you won’t be considered a qualified service dog handler until your dog has been trained to perform tasks that address your disability.
Can I use a PSD letter at work?
Possibly. Workplace accommodations fall under the ADA’s employment provisions and are overseen by the EEOC. Employers may request documentation during the reasonable accommodation process, but it isn’t handled the same way as housing or public access.
How Can I Avoid PSD Letter Scams?
Unfortunately, many fake websites prey on people seeking PSD letters. To stay safe, keep these points in mind:
Red Flags:
- Instant approval without evaluation
- No licensed professional listed
- “Lifetime certification” claims (not real)
How to Choose a Legit Provider:
- Verify the therapist’s license in your state
- Read real reviews and testimonials
- Use secure payments
- Share personal info only with verified professionals
At RealESALetter.com, we provide legitimate PSD letters to help protect your rights and save you from scams.
What is in a PSD letter?
A PSD letter includes your provider’s professional details (name, license number, and contact information) and a statement confirming that you have a qualifying mental health condition. It also notes that a psychiatric service dog helps reduce the effects of that condition.
Get Your Legitimate PSD Letter Today
Secure your psychiatric service dog letter quickly and easily with help from our licensed mental health professionals.
