License problems: new computer, can't enter my code, or buying a used copy. How does licensing work?

The rules

A license covers up to 3 devices for one user. A desktop + laptop + shop PC is fine. If a computer is shared with colleagues or anyone else who might use the software, install it on that one computer only.
Licenses are managed through the V&Co portal (your software account), which holds your installers and codes.
Codes are tied to the purchase email, so keep that account accessible.

"My code won't work." The #1 cause is trying to license the Trial download. License codes only work in the full version installer from the V&Co portal. Download the full installer, not the trial, then enter the code.
New computer: log into the V&Co portal, download the full installer, activate with your code, copy your tool database over (export/import or copy the database files), and uninstall from the machine being retired if you're at the 3-device limit.
Lost access / no email: contact the [software maker's support team](mailto:support@vectric.com) from the original purchase email address if possible; they can recover the account.
Second-hand purchase: per the official FAQ, only the original purchaser of a license can transfer it, once, and subsequent owners cannot. A transfer fee applies (currently $50), and the software maker can refuse a transfer if the license conditions were broken. License transfer requests go to the [software maker's sales team](mailto:sales@vectric.com). Never pay for a used license without the seller agreeing to an official transfer, because a code that was not properly transferred may not be valid for you.

Your tool database does NOT move with the license. Back it up and migrate it deliberately.
A major version released within 12 months of your purchase is free; minor updates (12.0 to 12.5) are always free.
If you upgrade a product to a more expensive one (for example VCarve Pro to Aspire), the earlier license is traded in and can no longer be transferred.