How to Transfer a Windows 11 License to a New PC: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Upgrading Your PC Doesn't Mean Re-buying Windows

When purchasing a new desktop, laptop, or assembling a brand-new custom build, many users mistakenly pay hundreds of dollars for a redundant Windows license.

If you already possess a **Retail license** (or a Digital License tied to your personal Microsoft Account), you are entitled to **transfer it to your new PC at zero extra cost**.

Here is the complete step-by-step walkthrough tested and confirmed by Licentis.ro.

Step 1: Verify That Your License is Transferable

1. Press **Windows + S**, type `cmd`, right-click **Command Prompt** and select **Run as administrator**. 2. Run the command: ```cmd slmgr /dli ``` 3. Inspect the popup dialog: * If the *Product Key Channel* specifies **RETAIL**, your license is **fully transferable**. * If it states **OEM**, the license is legally and technologically bound to that specific motherboard.

Step 2: Deactivate the License on the Old PC

1. Open **Command Prompt as Administrator** on the old machine. 2. Uninstall the product key from the system: ```cmd slmgr /upk ``` 3. Clear the key from the Windows Registry to prevent extraction: ```cmd slmgr /cpky ```

Step 3: Reactivate on the New Computer

• **Via Product Key:** On your new Windows 11 machine, navigate to **Settings > System > Activation**, click **Change product key**, enter your 25-character Retail key, and select **Activate**.
• **Via Microsoft Account Digital License:** Navigate to **Settings > System > Activation > Troubleshoot**, select **„I changed hardware on this device recently”**, pick your old computer from the list, and confirm activation.