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District of Columbia . Professional Entity

District of Columbia Professional LLC + Professional Corporation.

Licensed professionals in District of Columbia . 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 District of Columbia

District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia jurisdictions.
  • Other professionals licensed under District of Columbia occupational codes.

How District of Columbia 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

District of Columbia licensing boards (medical, bar, accountancy) often must approve formation documents before the DC DLCP Corporations Division 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 District of Columbia?
If you are a licensed professional and {s["name"]} requires the PLLC form for your profession . yes.
Can a non-licensed person own a District of Columbia PLLC?
Generally no. All members must be licensed in the same profession.
How does a District of Columbia PLLC differ from a standard LLC?
Owner licensure required, licensure board approval typically required, naming designation different, malpractice liability still personal.
Does a District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia?
A C-Corp or S-Corp variant for licensed professionals. Similar restrictions on ownership.
Can a District of Columbia PLLC elect S-Corp taxation?
Yes, if all members are eligible S-Corp shareholders.
Does File.Business form professional entities in District of Columbia?
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 DC DLCP Corporations Division or any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the DC DLCP Corporations Division. Information on this page is for general guidance only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Fees and deadlines verified against the DC DLCP Corporations Division as of June 2026 and may change. For entity-specific guidance, consult a licensed District of Columbia 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.