How to verify used Microsoft licenses (Safely & legally)

05 augustus 2025

Buying used Microsoft licenses can save your business up to 70%, but only if you verify them correctly. With rising interest in pre-owned Microsoft software, many IT managers ask:

How do I know if the license is legal and valid?

In this article, Softtrader walks you through the key steps to verify used Microsoft licenses, understand the legal framework in Europe, and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you're buying Office, Windows Server, or SQL Server licenses, here’s everything you need to know.

Why verifying used Microsoft licenses matters

Avoid legal risks and audits

If you unknowingly buy non-compliant licenses, Microsoft could flag your organization during a license audit. This can result in high penalties and forced repurchases.

Ensure you actually own what you paid for

Some sellers offer vague or incomplete documentation. Verifying licenses ensures you’re getting full ownership, not just usage rights.

Maximize ROI

Used Microsoft licenses offer cost efficiency, but only if they’re valid, transferable, and properly documented. Verification helps you realize those savings without risk.


What does EU law say about used Software licenses?

The resale of used software is legal throughout the European Union, provided it meets certain conditions. This is based on a landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice (CJEU) in Case C‑128/11 (UsedSoft GmbH vs Oracle International Corp).

Key legal principles from the ruling:

  • Software authors lose their exclusive distribution rights after the first sale in the EU/EEA.
  • Perpetual licenses can be resold, but subscriptions (like Microsoft 365) cannot.
  • The first buyer must uninstall the software and cease all use before reselling.
  • The license must have been originally acquired within the European Economic Area (EEA).

This ruling applies across all EU and EEA countries, including Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Portugal

In which countries is the resale of used Microsoft licenses legal?

Countries where resale is legal under EU/EEA law:

  • European Union (EU) countries
     e.g., Germany, France, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Austria, etc.
  • EEA Countries (non-EU but aligned with EU law)
     e.g., Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein

As long as the license was first sold and used in the EU or EEA, it is legally transferable within this region.

Countries where resale is often restricted, illegal or unclear:

  • United Kingdom (post-Brexit):
     UK is no longer part of the EEA. The resale of EEA-origin software into or from the UK may no longer be protected under EU law.
  • United States & Canada:
     Software resale is restricted under different legal interpretations; no protection from the UsedSoft ruling.
  • Asia-Pacific (e.g., Japan, China, Australia):
     Local laws often prevent or limit software license resale.
  • South America & Africa:
     No legal precedent similar to the EU ruling; legality is ambiguous.

Important: Even within the EU, sellers must prove the license originated within the EEA and is perpetual in nature.

Key requirements for legal used Microsoft licenses in the EU

To ensure compliance, always check for:

1.. Perpetual licensing

Only perpetual licenses can be legally resold, not subscriptions like Microsoft 365.

2. Deinstallation statement

The previous owner must confirm that the software has been fully uninstalled from their systems.

3. License transfer documents

A legal transfer document must clearly state that the rights have been transferred to you, the new owner.

How to verify used Microsoft licenses step-by-step

Step 1: Check license type

Ensure the license is:

  • Perpetual (not subscription-based)
  • Volume license (e.g., Microsoft Open, Select, or Enterprise)
  • Not bound to specific hardware or bundled OEM software

Step 2: Verify Microsoft license ID or product key

Legitimate volume licenses can be validated with:

  • SKU number
  • License ID
  • Product key (in some cases)

Step 3: Validate deinstallation & transfer

Ensure that the previous user:

  • No longer uses the license
  • Has transferred all associated rights
  • Is compliant with Microsoft’s license terms at the time of purchase

Can Microsoft help verify used licenses?

It’s important to note that Microsoft does not officially verify used license transfers from third-party resellers. However, businesses looking to ensure compliance still have several reliable options. If your organization has enterprise-level support, you can consult Microsoft Licensing Specialists for guidance. Another route is to request a compliance audit from a certified Software Asset Management (SAM) partner.

Alternatively, and often more efficiently, you can choose to work with experienced and trustworthy resellers like Softtrader. We take care of the entire process, from documentation to license verification, ensuring that every transfer meets legal and technical requirements.

Why buy used Microsoft licenses from Softtrader?

At Softtrader, we provide:

  • Legally compliant, fully verified Microsoft licenses
  • License transfer documents including invoice
  • Completely legal for audits
  • Legal peace of mind
  • Up to 70% savings compared to new licenses
  • Free support for access and setup

In some cases, businesses may find it difficult to immediately confirm whether a used volume license is fully functional. If there is uncertainty about the validity or activation of a license, a test activation using a MAK or KMS key can help provide technical assurance before full deployment. Trusted resellers of pre-owned software like Softtrader can assist with this process under the right conditions.

We’ve helped over 2000 businesses in Europe transition to cost-effective, compliant Microsoft licensing.


Common pitfalls to avoid

Buying OEM or retail licenses

These are often non-transferable and tied to hardware. Always go for volume licenses.

Outside EU/EEA purchases

Licenses from outside the EEA do not qualify for resale under EU law. Always confirm origin.

Stay safe, stay compliant

Verifying used Microsoft licenses isn’t just a smart move, it’s a legal necessity. It ensures that your software is compliant with audit requirements, fully owned by your business, and protected under EU and EEA regulations. By working with trusted partners like Softtrader, you can purchase used Microsoft licenses with complete confidence and legal certainty. Every license we offer is validated, transferable, and comes with full documentation for peace of mind during any audit.

If you're looking for legal and cost-effective Microsoft licenses, contact Softtrader today to secure verified used licenses backed by EU law and full compliance support.