HP Printer Error 67 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 67 on an HP LaserJet printer means the printer detected a problem with a memory module (SIMM or DIMM) that is installed in the printer. This usually means the memory module is faulty, incompatible, or not seated correctly. This error appears at startup, before the printer is ready to print. Removing and reseating the memory module — or removing it entirely — usually clears the error. The printer can run without extra memory using its built-in RAM.

Affected Models

HP LaserJet 4
HP LaserJet 4Plus
HP LaserJet 4M
HP LaserJet 5
HP LaserJet 5M

Common Causes

A third-party memory SIMM or DIMM module is installed that is incompatible with the printer
The memory module has become partially unseated from vibration or movement
A faulty memory module that passed initial installation but has since developed a fault
The wrong type of memory was installed (e.g., wrong speed or wrong pin count)
Oxidation or corrosion on the memory module's gold contacts causing an intermittent connection

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer and unplug it. Locate the memory access panel — on most HP LaserJets it's a small door on the side of the printer. Open it to reveal the memory SIMM or DIMM slot(s).

The memory slot location varies by model. Your printer's user guide will show exactly where it is.
Remove any add-on memory modules installed in the printer. Press the retaining clips on each side of the module outward to release it, then lift the module out at a 45-degree angle. Set it aside on a static-free surface.

Touch a metal surface before handling memory modules to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Turn the printer on without any add-on memory. If the error clears and the printer starts normally, the removed memory module was either faulty or incompatible. The printer will function normally using its base memory.

Without add-on memory, very large or complex print jobs may cause out-of-memory errors (error 20 or 25), but the printer will work for everyday printing.
Clean the gold contacts on the memory module with a clean pencil eraser, then brush off all eraser residue. Oxidation on the contacts is a very common cause of error 67. Reseat the module firmly until both retaining clips click into place.

Never use a wet cloth or spray cleaner on memory module contacts. A clean art eraser (not the pink kind — they leave residue) works best.
If the error returns with the module reseated, the module is likely faulty or incompatible. Find a replacement module that is certified compatible with your printer model. HP provides a list of compatible memory for each printer model in its technical specifications document.

Third-party printer memory is much cheaper than HP-branded memory and often works perfectly. Just confirm it matches the correct type (SIMM or DIMM), speed, and pin count for your printer.

When to Call a Professional

Error 67 is usually fixable without a technician. If reseating the memory doesn't work, removing the add-on memory entirely resolves it — the printer uses its built-in base memory. If the error appears with only the original built-in RAM (no add-ons), the printer's memory controller or formatter board may have failed. Formatter board repair or replacement is best handled by a qualified technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run an HP LaserJet without add-on memory?

Yes — every HP LaserJet ships with some amount of built-in base memory that cannot be removed. The add-on SIMM or DIMM slot allows you to expand memory for larger print jobs. If you remove or disable the add-on module, the printer falls back to its base memory. For most office printing tasks, base memory is sufficient.

How do I know what memory is compatible with my HP LaserJet?

Check HP's official specifications document for your printer model. The document lists compatible memory types (usually SIMMs for older models, DIMMs for newer ones), the maximum supported RAM, and sometimes specific part numbers. Alternatively, sites like Crucial.com have compatibility tools where you enter your printer model and it shows you exactly which memory modules work.

Will error 67 cause any damage if I keep trying to start the printer?

No — error 67 is detected at startup and the printer simply halts and displays the error. It won't damage the printer to attempt multiple restarts. However, you won't be able to print anything until the error is resolved. Simply remove the problematic memory module and the printer will start normally.