I have a MBP (Late 2011 model), still running Snow Leopard. I have purchased an SSD which I'm planning to replace my current HDD. I also got a HDD caddy. The original HDD will be placed in the caddy, and then replacing my CD Drive.

What is the best way for me to clean install my OS into the SSD (assuming I need this to upgrade to the newest OS)?

I don't need to transfer any old softwares or files into the SSD, a clean install would suffice, as most of my files have been backed up.

Any ideas?

Thanks!

with your current osx download the latest supported osx and make a usb installer.

use the usb to do a clean install

Do I need to worry about licenses and what not?

When I first got my Macbook, I think I registered it under a certain email... that's only for warranty purposes right and I shouldn't bother with that?

after the new installation just use the registered email to login to itunes

A
to clean install is easy.

go to app store. download macos Sierra. Should be free download.

then download Disk Maker X. create bootable USB using macos Sierra u downloaded.

shut down. install your new SSD.

restart your mac while holding Option button. Boot recovery.

select Disk Utility from drop down menu.

select your SSD and format to HFS+

go back and install macos Sierra.

you will have fresh installed Sierra.

B
to copy your existing drive to new SSD is also easy

connect your SSD to mac using an external drive enclosure or Sata to USB cable

open Disk Utility

Select your SSD. restore image from Macintosh HD. wait for progress.

after finish copying. shut down, remove HDD and install SSD.

boot like normal