How long before the expiration date may an amateur radio license renewal be requested?

The FCC allows amateur radio operators to renew their licenses up to 90 days before the official expiration date. This provides plenty of time for the administrative process to be completed without causing lapses in operating privileges. If you attempt to renew your license before this 90-day window opens, the FCC's Universal Licensing System (ULS) will simply reject the application. You must wait until you are within the final 90 days of your license term. Distractors like 30 days or 6 months are incorrect. The 90-day rule is a specific FCC standard designed to prevent the system from being cluttered with premature renewal applications.