The document describes an Expedite Message Authentication Protocol (EMAP) for securing messages in vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs). EMAP replaces the time-consuming process of checking certificate revocation lists (CRLs) with a more efficient revocation checking process using keyed hash message authentication codes (HMACs) shared only between non-revoked onboard units. EMAP also uses a novel probabilistic key distribution method to allow non-revoked units to securely share and update a secret key. Analysis shows EMAP can significantly reduce message loss compared to conventional authentication relying on CRLs, while providing security.