GitHub Inc. Many developers now find Copilot to be absolutely essential since it helps them write, restructure, and propose code in real time. But what happens if you launch your IDE and encounter the dreaded message: “Copilot license key invalid” or “License problem detected”? These problems might quickly stop your work whether they are activation errors or subscription expiry.
This step-by-step tutorial will help you to identify and resolve license-related issues so you can fast return to coding. We’ll also go over how to finish the renewal procedure without difficulty.
Common Reasons for Copilot License Issues
Before diving into the fixes, let’s look at why you might be seeing errors related to your license:
- Subscription expiration (free trial ended or renewal payment failed)
- Entered Copilot license key invalid
- Signed in with the wrong GitHub account
- Sync issues between GitHub and your IDE
- Payment or billing problems
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Copilot License Issues
Step 1: Check Your GitHub Copilot Subscription Status
Start by verifying if your subscription is still active:
- Go to https://github.com/settings/billing
- Check under the “Copilot” section to see if your plan is active
- If not, you’ll need to re-subscribe or update your payment method
📌 Tip: Free trials last 30 days—after that, Copilot stops working unless renewed.
Step 2: Re-authenticate Your GitHub Account
Sometimes the IDE loses connection with your GitHub account:
For VS Code:
- Click on Account > Sign Out
- Re-sign in via Sign in with GitHub
- Restart VS Code
For JetBrains IDEs:
- Go to Settings > Tools > GitHub Copilot
- Click Sign Out and log in again
Make sure you’re using the account linked to the paid subscription.
Step 3: Verify or Re-Enter the License Key (If Required)
In rare cases (especially for enterprise accounts), Copilot may prompt you to enter a license key. If you see a Copilot license key invalid error:
- Contact your admin or GitHub Support to retrieve a valid key
- Double-check for typos or whitespace when entering the key
- If the key expired, request a new one
Step 4: Complete the Renewal Process
If your subscription expiration has occurred, here’s how to fix it:
- Visit: https://github.com/features/copilot
- Choose the appropriate plan (monthly or yearly)
- Complete the payment and confirm your GitHub email
- Restart your IDE and re-authenticate if needed
📌 Make sure your GitHub email is verified—unverified accounts can block activation.
Step 5: Update Billing Information
Failed payments are a common reason for license deactivation:
- Navigate to GitHub > Settings > Billing
- Update your credit card or PayPal details
- Re-check your Copilot status after a few minutes
Still Facing a License Issue?
If you’ve followed all the steps and Copilot is still not working, try these advanced solutions:
- Clear IDE cache (VS Code: %USERPROFILE%\.vscode, JetBrains: ~/Library/Caches/JetBrains)
- Uninstall and reinstall the Copilot extension
- Contact GitHub Support for account verification
Pro Tips for Smooth License Management
- Set a calendar reminder for your renewal process
- Use a business email for GitHub to manage subscriptions easily
- Monitor your billing inbox for warnings about subscription expiration
- Avoid switching accounts in your IDE frequently
Conclusion: Keep Your Copilot License Active and Your Workflow Smooth
Running into a license issue, especially a Copilot license key invalid or expired subscription, can interrupt your productivity. But with this guide, you can troubleshoot, renew, and get your Copilot running again in minutes. Staying on top of your renewal process ensures you always have access to the tools that keep your coding sharp and efficient.
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