How to Transfer a Windows License to a New PC

If you’re building or buying a new computer, you may not need to purchase Windows again. Some Windows licenses can be moved from one PC to another. This guide explains which licenses are transferable, how to remove the license from your old computer and how to activate it on the new one.

Step 1: Check Your License Type

Whether you can transfer Windows depends on the license channel:

To check, open Command Prompt and run slmgr /dli. The description line shows RETAIL, OEM or VOLUME.

Step 2: Find Your Product Key or Link Your Account

Locate your retail product key in your purchase email, the box or your Microsoft account order history. Also make sure the license is linked to your Microsoft account by signing in to Windows and checking Settings → System → Activation.

Step 3: Remove the License from the Old PC

A retail license can be active on only one computer at a time. Before moving it, remove it from the old machine:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator on the old PC.
2. Run slmgr /upk to uninstall the product key.
3. Run slmgr /cpky to clear the key from the registry.
4. Restart the computer.

If you’re disposing of the old PC, you can also simply wipe the drive before selling or recycling it.

Step 4: Activate Windows on the New PC

1. Install the same edition of Windows that your license covers, such as Windows 11 Pro.
2. Choose I don’t have a product key during setup if you plan to use the troubleshooter, or enter the key directly.
3. After setup, open Settings → System → Activation and select Change product key.
4. Enter your retail key and select Next.

If your license is linked to a Microsoft account, you can instead run the Activation troubleshooter and choose I changed hardware on this device recently.

Step 5: Use Phone Activation If Needed

Online activation sometimes fails right after a transfer because the key was recently active elsewhere. In that case, press Win + R, type slui 4 and follow the phone activation steps. Explain that you moved the license to a new computer if asked.

What About OEM Licenses?

OEM licenses are tied to the computer they came with and can’t be transferred to a new PC. If your old computer used an OEM license, you’ll need to buy a new Windows license for the new machine. Many new PCs already include an OEM license, so check before buying. If you are building a custom PC, a retail license is the better long-term choice because you can move it to your next build as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use one retail license on two PCs?

No. A single retail license can be active on only one computer at a time.

Can I transfer a free upgrade license?

It depends on the original license. An upgrade from a retail copy is generally transferable, while one from an OEM copy is not.

Do I need to uninstall Windows from the old PC?

You don’t need to remove Windows completely, but you should remove the product key so the license is active on only one computer.

Conclusion

Retail Windows licenses can be moved to a new PC by removing them from the old computer and activating them on the new one. OEM licenses stay with the original device. Check your license type first to plan your upgrade correctly.