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California . Professional Entity

California Professional LLC + Professional Corporation.

Licensed professionals in California . 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.

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Who must form a professional entity in California

California 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 California jurisdictions.
  • Other professionals licensed under California occupational codes.

How California professional entities differ from standard LLCs

Owner licensure requirement

All members or shareholders must be licensed in the same profession the entity practices.

Licensure board approval

California licensing boards (medical, bar, accountancy) often must approve formation documents before the California Secretary of State files them.

Naming requirements

Entity name must include PLLC, PL, P.C., or similar designation depending on form chosen.

Personal liability for malpractice

A PLLC or PC protects against business liabilities but not against professional malpractice. Carry insurance.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a PLLC instead of an LLC in California?
If you are a licensed professional and {s["name"]} requires the PLLC form for your profession . yes.
Can a non-licensed person own a California PLLC?
Generally no. All members must be licensed in the same profession.
How does a California PLLC differ from a standard LLC?
Owner licensure required, licensure board approval typically required, naming designation different, malpractice liability still personal.
Does a California PLLC protect me from malpractice claims?
No. It protects against general business liability only. Carry professional liability insurance for malpractice.
What is a Professional Corporation (PC) in California?
A C-Corp or S-Corp variant for licensed professionals. Similar restrictions on ownership.
Can a California PLLC elect S-Corp taxation?
Yes, if all members are eligible S-Corp shareholders.
Does File.Business form professional entities in California?
Yes. We coordinate with the relevant licensing board and file with the {s["agency"]}.

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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 California Secretary of State or any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the California 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 California Secretary of State as of June 2026 and may change. For entity-specific guidance, consult a licensed California attorney or CPA.

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File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the appropriate state agency. SOC 2 Type II audited. 220,000+ businesses formed since 2017.