PLLC vs LLC in Florida: Which One Does Your Business Need in 2026?

If you are a licensed professional in Florida - whether a doctor, lawyer, accountant, architect, or engineer - you cannot form a standard LLC. Florida law requires licensed professionals to form a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) instead. The distinction matters because it affects liability protection, regulatory compliance, and how your business is treated by the Florida Department of State.

This guide breaks down the key differences between a PLLC and a standard LLC in Florida, explains who needs each, and walks you through the formation requirements for both entity types in 2026.

What Is a Florida LLC?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most popular business entity in Florida. It provides personal liability protection for its owners (called members), pass-through taxation, and flexible management structure. LLCs are governed by the Florida Revised Limited Liability Company Act, Chapter 605 of the Florida Statutes.

Any person or entity can form an LLC in Florida for virtually any lawful business purpose. The formation process involves filing Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz.org) and paying a $125 filing fee.

What Is a Florida PLLC?

A Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) is a special type of LLC authorized under Florida Statute Section 621.05. It is specifically designed for individuals who are required to hold a state-issued professional license to practice their trade. A PLLC can only be formed by, and provide services through, licensed professionals.

The key difference is regulatory: a PLLC is subject to additional oversight from both the Florida Department of State and the relevant professional licensing board. The PLLC's Articles of Organization must include a statement that the company will provide professional services and identify the specific profession.

Who Must Form a PLLC in Florida?

Florida law requires a PLLC (rather than a standard LLC) for professionals whose services require a license issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) or another state licensing authority. Common professions that must use a PLLC include:

• Physicians, surgeons, and dentists
• Attorneys and law firms
• Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)
• Architects and engineers
• Veterinarians
• Chiropractors, optometrists, and psychologists
• Real estate brokers (in some circumstances)

If your profession is not on this list but requires a Florida license, check with the relevant licensing board. When in doubt, FL Patel Law can help you determine which entity type is required.

PLLC vs LLC: Key Differences in Florida

The Critical Liability Difference

This is the most important distinction between a PLLC and a standard LLC, and the one most often misunderstood.

A standard LLC protects its members from personal liability for the company's debts and obligations. If the LLC is sued for breach of contract, premises liability, or general business claims, the members' personal assets are typically shielded.

A PLLC provides the same protection for general business liabilities. However, a PLLC does not protect a professional from liability for their own professional malpractice or negligence. If a doctor commits medical malpractice or a lawyer commits legal malpractice, forming a PLLC will not shield them from personal liability for those claims.

What the PLLC does protect against is the malpractice of other members. In a multi-member PLLC, one professional's malpractice does not create personal liability for the other members. This is a significant benefit for group practices.

How to Form a PLLC in Florida in 2026

The formation process for a Florida PLLC is similar to a standard LLC with a few additional requirements:

• Step 1: Confirm that your profession requires a PLLC.
• Step 2: Choose a compliant name. The name must include "PLLC," "P.L.L.C.," or "Professional Limited Liability Company" and cannot be deceptively similar to an existing Florida entity.
• Step 3: Designate a Florida registered agent.
• Step 4: Prepare and file Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations. The articles must include a statement that the PLLC will render professional services and identify the specific service. Filing fee: $125.
• Step 5: Obtain licensing board approval if required by your profession's regulatory body.
• Step 6: Draft an operating agreement. While not filed with the state, an operating agreement is essential for defining ownership, management, and distributions among members.
• Step 7: Obtain an EIN from the IRS and open a business bank account.

Should You Form an LLC or a PLLC?

The answer is straightforward: if your profession requires a state license, you must form a PLLC. Florida law does not give licensed professionals the option of forming a standard LLC for their practice. Attempting to do so may result in rejection by the Division of Corporations or, worse, operating without proper entity protection.

If you are not a licensed professional, a standard LLC is the right choice. It provides the same liability protection and tax flexibility without the additional regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions