How to Transfer Mac App Licenses to a New Computer

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Deactivate licenses on the current Mac

   Open the application on your old Mac. Navigate to the top menu bar, select the app name, and choose 'Deactivate' or 'License' from the dropdown menu to release the serial number or key from the current hardware.

   Note: If a deactivate option is missing, check the developer’s website for a customer portal to manage authorized devices.
2. 1 min

   Locate your original license credentials

   Gather your purchase confirmation emails or account login credentials for third-party software. Confirm that your current license tier supports the migration or requires a specific deactivation count reset.

3. 3 min

   Install the software on the new Mac

   Download the latest version of the application directly from the developer's official website. Avoid using Migration Assistant for high-end professional software, as license files often fail to transfer correctly during system cloning.

   Note: Always install the version compatible with your current version of macOS.
4. 1 min

   Activate the application on the new machine

   Launch the newly installed app. When prompted, input your license key, serial number, or sign in to your developer account to authenticate the software on your new Mac.

   Note: Ensure your new Mac is connected to the internet during the activation process to handshake with the licensing server.
5. 1 min

   Test software functionality

   Open a project file or test a core feature to ensure all plugins and dependencies are correctly recognized. Check the 'About' menu in the app to verify the status shows as 'Licensed' or 'Registered'.