If you’re a licensed professional — like a doctor, lawyer, architect, or engineer — you may be wondering:
Can an LLC provide professional services legally?
The short answer is: Yes, in some states — but with restrictions. In many cases, professionals must form a PLLC (Professional Limited Liability Company) instead of a regular LLC.
Let’s break down what you need to know before starting a professional practice under an LLC structure.
What Are Professional Services?
Professional services are services provided by individuals or firms that require:
- A state-issued occupational license
- Advanced education or certification
- Adherence to strict ethical and regulatory standards
Common Examples:
- Doctors, Dentists, Chiropractors
- Attorneys, Accountants, Financial Advisors
- Engineers, Architects, Surveyors
- Therapists, Psychologists, Social Workers
Can a Regular LLC Offer Professional Services?
It depends on the state and the type of service.
In many states, regular LLCs are not allowed to offer regulated professional services. Instead, licensed professionals must form a Professional LLC (PLLC) or a Professional Corporation (PC).
Example: In states like New York, California, and Texas, professionals cannot use a regular LLC to offer licensed services — they must form a PLLC or PC.
What Is a PLLC?
A Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) is a special type of LLC designed for licensed professionals.
Key Features:
- All owners (members) must be licensed in the profession
- Must be approved by the relevant state licensing board
- Offers limited liability protection — but not for malpractice
A PLLC protects you from business debts or lawsuits — but not from personal liability for professional negligence.
Who Can Form a PLLC?
Rules vary by state, but in general, the following professionals may be eligible to form a PLLC:
- Medical professionals
- Legal professionals
- Accountants
- Engineers and architects
- Mental health providers
- Veterinary professionals
Before forming a PLLC, you may need:
- Approval from your state licensing board
- A letter of good standing
- Proof of licensure for all members
Which States Allow PLLCs?
Not all states recognize PLLCs. Some states require professionals to form Professional Corporations (PCs) instead.
Here’s how some major states handle it:
| State | PLLC Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Yes | Requires licensing board approval |
| California | No | Only PCs allowed for professionals |
| Texas | Yes | PLLC requires certification |
| Florida | Yes | Licensed professionals only |
| Illinois | Yes | Must use designated business naming |
| Georgia | Yes | Only for licensed services |
🔍 Check with your state’s Secretary of State and licensing board before forming a PLLC or LLC.
Liability Protection: LLC vs PLLC
| Feature | Regular LLC | PLLC |
|---|---|---|
| Personal liability | Protected | Protected (except malpractice) |
| Malpractice protection | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
| Ownership requirement | Open to anyone | Licensed professionals only |
| State licensing board | Not involved | Must approve formation |
Can You Offer Non-Professional Services Through an LLC?
Yes. If your business doesn’t involve a licensed profession, you can use a regular LLC to provide services like:
- Marketing, consulting, or IT services
- Freelancing, design, or photography
- E-commerce or online education
- Virtual assistant or administrative support
🧾 Only regulated professions (like medical or legal) require PLLCs.
Need Help Forming a PLLC or LLC?
At FormLLC, we specialize in forming both:
✅ LLCs for general businesses
✅ PLLCs for licensed professionals
✅ EIN + BOI filing included
✅ Free registered agent (1st year)
✅ Dashboard, email, and domain setup
📧 Email: contact@formllc.us
🌐 Website: www.formllc.us
📱 WhatsApp: +91 6202619173, +1 3322662187
Final Answer: Can an LLC Provide Professional Services?
In most cases, no — not unless it’s formed as a PLLC.
Licensed professionals must follow their state’s regulations, which often require forming a Professional LLC (PLLC) and getting board approval. Regular LLCs are only suitable for non-regulated services.
Always check your state’s rules before offering licensed services under an LLC.
