Licensed professionals
California professional corporation
For most licensed professions, California uses a professional corporation rather than a PLLC. California’s LLC-1 instructions prohibit LLCs from providing professional services as defined by the referenced Corporations Code sections. Confirm your profession’s permitted entity type and ownership rules with your licensing board and legal adviser before ordering.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Corp USA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
The requirements
What to know before you file
Professional corporation, not California PLLC
The California LLC-1 instructions specifically restrict professional services. A professional corporation may be the appropriate structure, subject to profession-specific law and licensing rules.
Official source: California Secretary of State – official form (PDF)Find the next decision pathConfirm eligibility first
California recognizes professional corporations. Licensing requirements, shareholders and permitted activities depend on the profession; a filing alone does not authorize professional practice.
Official source: California Secretary of StateFind the next decision pathOngoing corporate requirements
Stock corporation Statements of Information cost $25, are initially due within 90 days, and recur annually. Confirm the correct articles and filing classification for your profession before paying.
Official source: California Secretary of StateFind the next decision pathThe answers that matter
Frequently asked questions
No California PLLC is presented here. The professional formation option is a California professional corporation, subject to your profession’s requirements.
Official source: California Secretary of State – official form (PDF)No. Permitted entity types and restrictions depend on the profession. Confirm the applicable rules with your licensing board and attorney before filing.
Official source: California Secretary of State – official form (PDF)Your next chapter. In California.
Review your options and costs before you order.
Corp USA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.