How to Become a Process Server in Pennsylvania (A Step-by-Step Guide with Tips)

If you’re searching for how to become a process server in Pennsylvania, you’re likely exploring a career in legal support that offers flexibility, low barriers to entry, and meaningful work. While Pennsylvania doesn’t require statewide licensing for process servers, the process of serving legal papers is still regulated—and must follow strict legal guidelines to be valid.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll break down how process serving works in Pennsylvania, who is authorized to serve papers, how you can start legally serving documents, and what you need to know to succeed in this role. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills in the legal field, this guide has you covered.

What Is a Process Server in Pennsylvania?

A process server is someone who delivers legal documents such as complaints, summonses, subpoenas, divorce papers, and eviction notices to individuals or organizations named in a legal action. Proper service of process ensures that parties are officially notified and given the opportunity to respond—an essential part of due process.

In Pennsylvania, there is no official statewide license or certification for private process servers. However, the Rules of Civil Procedure outline exactly who can serve papers and under what conditions. Following these rules is crucial—failure to do so can invalidate service and delay the case.

Related: What Is a Process Server? (Simple and Clear Explanation)

How to Become a Process Server in Pennsylvania: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Understand Who Can Serve Legal Papers

According to the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure (Rule 400–405), legal papers in civil cases may be served by:

• The Sheriff’s Office (default method for original process)
• A competent adult (over 18, not a party to the case), only in certain counties or under court order
• Licensed private investigators, attorneys, or legal support professionals, depending on the type of document and court’s rules

Note: In most counties, the sheriff is the only person authorized to serve original process (e.g., a complaint starting a lawsuit). But for subsequent documents like subpoenas, notices, or discovery materials, private individuals are often allowed.

Step 2: Learn the PA Rules of Civil Procedure (Rule 400–405)

Even though you don’t need a license, you do need to fully understand how service must be done to ensure it’s legal and effective. Here are some highlights from the Rules:

• Rule 400: Specifies who may serve and where
• Rule 402: Explains personal service requirements (home, workplace, or agent)
• Rule 403: Covers service by mail (only permitted in limited situations)
• Rule 405: Outlines how to complete and file proof of service

Access the full rules here: PA Code – Rules of Civil Procedure

Step 3: Check Local Court Rules

Pennsylvania’s 67 counties may adopt additional local rules about who can serve and how. Before you begin offering your services, check with:

• The Clerk of Courts in your target county
• The County Bar Association
• Local Sheriff’s Office or Prothonotary Office

For example, Philadelphia County and Allegheny County have unique procedures compared to rural counties.

Step 4: Get Appointed (If Required)

In counties where the sheriff is the only party allowed to serve original process, a party to the case may petition the court to appoint a private individual (you) as a special process server.

Here’s how that works:

1. The plaintiff (or their attorney) files a motion requesting special appointment
2. A judge signs an order authorizing you to serve process in that case
3. You must follow all procedures outlined in the judge’s order and the rules of civil procedure

You cannot serve process legally without this order in counties that restrict private service.

Step 5: Begin Serving Legal Documents

Once legally authorized or appointed, you can begin accepting assignments to serve:

• Complaints and summonses (if allowed in your county)
• Subpoenas
• Divorce or custody papers
• Notices to vacate or eviction papers
• Other court-related documents

You’ll need to:

• Make multiple attempts, at various times if needed
• Serve the correct individual or legal agent
• Maintain calm, professional behavior during confrontations
• Complete a proof or affidavit of service, which must be filed with the court

Tools like ServeManager or Proof (app) can help you keep accurate records and generate affidavits quickly.

Step 6: Grow Your Process Serving Career or Business

Once you’ve mastered the legal side, you can treat this like a business and start growing your presence in Pennsylvania’s legal community:

• Build a website with your service areas and pricing
• Set up a Google Business Profile for local searches
• Join process server directories like ServeNow or NAPPS
• Reach out to attorneys, property managers, and collection agencies

Bonus Tip: Offer flexible hours, rush service, or multi-attempt packages to increase your value to clients.

How Much Do Process Servers Make in Pennsylvania?

Your income depends on location, volume, and experience:

• Per job: $40–$85
• Rush or evasive serves: $100+
• Part-time earnings: $15,000–$25,000/year
• Full-time or agency owners: $40,000–$75,000+/year

Cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Harrisburg typically offer higher demand and more frequent legal actions.

Key Skills That Make a Great Process Server

To succeed in this role, focus on:

• Legal awareness – You must know how and when to serve documents correctly
• Reliability – Clients depend on you for timely and valid service
• Problem-solving – Evasive individuals or incorrect addresses require creativity
• Professionalism – You’re often the only face of the legal system a person sees
• Documentation skills – Clear, accurate affidavits prevent delays or dismissals

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is licensing required to become a process server in Pennsylvania?

No. Pennsylvania does not offer or require a statewide license. However, local court rules and judicial approval may be required in specific counties.

Can anyone serve legal documents in Pennsylvania?

Only certain people may serve process depending on the county. Often, the sheriff is the only one authorized to serve original process unless a judge appoints a special server.

What’s the difference between original and subsequent process?

• Original process starts the lawsuit (e.g., complaint & summons)
• Subsequent process includes notices, discovery, subpoenas, etc. Private servers are more commonly allowed to serve subsequent process.

How do I get appointed to serve process?

In restricted counties, a plaintiff or attorney must file a motion with the court requesting your appointment as a special process server.

Can I make a full-time living doing this?

Yes—with consistent work from law firms, landlords, and legal agencies, many experienced servers operate as full-time freelancers or agency owners.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Legal Support Career in Pennsylvania

Becoming a process server in Pennsylvania is a smart entry point into the legal field. Even though the state doesn’t require a license, the job demands professionalism, legal knowledge, and precision. With the right preparation and county-specific awareness, you can build a steady career helping attorneys and courts keep the legal process moving.

Whether you start part-time or go all-in, this role offers low startup costs and real opportunities to grow into a trusted legal support professional in your area.