The Regiment was authorized on December 9, 1775 in the Continental Army as the 2d Pennsylvania Battalion. Organized between January 2- February 17, 1776 at Philadelphia to consist of 8 companies. It was assigned on January 8, 1776 to the Canadian Department. Reorganized and re-designated 1 January 1, 1777 as the 3rd Pennsylvania Regiment, to consist of 8 companies. Relieved on January 24, 1777 from he Northern Department and assigned to the Main Continental Army. It was assigned on May 22, 1777 to the 3rd Pennsylvania Brigade, an element of the Main Continental Army. Consolidated on January 17, 1781 with the 11th Pennsylvania Regiment and re-designated as the 3rd Pennsylvania Regiment; concurrently furloughed at Trenton, New Jersey, and relieved from the 2nd Pennsylvania Brigade. Reorganized on January 1, 1783 at Philadelphia, to consist of 9 companies, and assigned to the Middle Department. Furloughed on June 11, 1783 at Philadelphia. Disbanded on November 15, 1783.