Installing photoshop elements on my new laptop

Transferring will not work.  You need to install using installation files and then activate using the serial number from your original installation.

PSE 7, 8, 9 - http://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop-elements/kb/photoshop-elements-7-8-9-downloads.html

You can also download the trial version of the software thru the page linked below and then use your current serial number to activate it.

Be sure to follow the steps outlined in the Note: Very Important Instructions section on the download pages at this site and have cookies enabled in your browser or else the download will not work properly.

Photoshop/Premiere Elements 8: http://prodesigntools.com/direct-download-links-for-lightroom-3-and-photoshop-elements-8.html