renewal - how long before I can order online

[oldboyshooter]

I relize this has probably been asked and answered numerous times, but a search shows too many posts to go through.
So, I thought I would ask again.
My first renewal comes up this year. I got my Pin number (had to email the state, but they were prompt in their reply, who would have thought to keep that number) and tried to go online to pay etc. The message said I was too early (I renew in October of 2010).
What isthe time frame, 6 months before expiration? I want to be prompt.

Thanks in advance.

Oldboyshooter

[BobCat]

Yes, that's right. I had the exact same question and emailed DPS; the guy there replied 180 days.

[dubya]

I received a renewal letter from the Dept. of Licensing just over 6 months from renewal this month.
The letter had a PIN in it and URL to go to get the renewal packet.
Packet arrived about a week later.
Looks like the State is happy to get the fees...
JW