Alabama Professional LLC + Professional Corporation.
Licensed professionals in Alabama . doctors, lawyers, accountants, architects, engineers, and others . often must form a Professional LLC (PLLC) or Professional Corporation (PC) rather than a standard entity. This guide explains who qualifies, the licensure requirements, and what differs in formation.
Form a Alabama PLLC / PC →Who must form a professional entity in Alabama
Alabama typically requires a Professional LLC or Professional Corporation for state-licensed services including:
- Medical: physicians, surgeons, dentists, psychologists, chiropractors, optometrists.
- Legal: attorneys and law firms.
- Accounting: CPAs.
- Engineering + Architecture: licensed PEs and architects.
- Real estate: brokers in some Alabama jurisdictions.
- Other professionals licensed under Alabama occupational codes.
How Alabama professional entities differ from standard LLCs
All members or shareholders must be licensed in the same profession the entity practices.
Alabama licensing boards (medical, bar, accountancy) often must approve formation documents before the Alabama Secretary of State files them.
Entity name must include PLLC, PL, P.C., or similar designation depending on form chosen.
A PLLC or PC protects against business liabilities but not against professional malpractice. Carry insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a PLLC instead of an LLC in Alabama?
Can a non-licensed person own a Alabama PLLC?
How does a Alabama PLLC differ from a standard LLC?
Does a Alabama PLLC protect me from malpractice claims?
What is a Professional Corporation (PC) in Alabama?
Can a Alabama PLLC elect S-Corp taxation?
Does File.Business form professional entities in Alabama?
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Disclosure. File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with the Alabama Secretary of State or any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the Alabama Secretary of State. Information on this page is for general guidance only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Fees and deadlines verified against the Alabama Secretary of State as of June 2026 and may change. For entity-specific guidance, consult a licensed Alabama attorney or CPA.