The BH number plate (Bharat Series number plate) is more than just a regular plate, which was launched by MoRTH in 2021. The New Motor Vehicle Amendment Act 2019 has a provision to ease the vehicle registration process for people shifting permanent bases with their vehicles due to relocation for work, reinforcing freedom of mobility across India. BH registration is a favourable system for employees working in defence, government, and private sectors across different states.

What is a BH Number Plate?

The BH series number plate, or the Bharat series number plate, was launched by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in 2021 to ease the vehicle registration process for people who often move across cities due to work commitments. BH registration online is available for non-transport vehicles and offers several features, making it an ideal solution for those with transferable jobs.

Importance of BH Series Number for Vehicle Owners

The BH number plate carries a lot of weight for vehicle owners, the reason being its nationwide acceptance. This feature forgoes the need to re-register a vehicle while migrating to another state, thus saving time and reducing paperwork. It is the best alternative for government employees, defence personnel, and other private sector officers working in different state offices.

Benefits of Having a BH Series Number Plate

The benefits of the BH series number plate are mentioned below:

• Validity: Number plates of the BH series number are valid in all the states of India. It saves the time for the re-registration fee if you are shifting.

• Reduces Process: It makes the registration process simple and reduces the administrative headaches related to relocating. 

• Low Road Tax: The BH series plate road tax is usually less than the regular plates. It is a flat rate based on around 8 to 12% of the vehicle value (below ₹10 lakh is 8%, between ₹2 to 20 lakh is 10%, and above ₹20 lakh is 12%), and it will be introduced per state. 

• Identification: It gives authorities a unique identification to identify vehicle ownership during theft or accidents.

How to Obtain a Bharat Series Registration?

The procedure for obtaining a BH registration online via the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) Vahan site is as follows:

• Log in to the Vahan portal.

• Complete Form 60 if you work in a private sector with offices above four states/UTs and submit an employment ID & work certificate. Government employees need to have an official ID card.

• Select the BH series number.

• Check your eligibility according to the government of India.

• Upload the required personal documents. 

• After your RTO verification, you can deposit the required fee or motor vehicle tax online. The BH number plate price is decided according to the price of your vehicle. 

BH number registration is an additional option if you are buying a new vehicle. In such cases, the dealer may complete Form 20 on your behalf.

What is the BH number plate eligibility?

The BH number plate eligibility criteria are as follows:

• One has to be either a government employee, defence personnel, or bank employee, working under government administrative services.

• You work for a private company that has an office(s) established in more than four states or union territories.

• Furthermore, you must hold a PCR (Pollution Control Registration) certificate.

• You must also pay the vehicle’s road tax regularly.

BH Number Plate Format Explained

The Bharat Series registration, also referred to as the BH registration, makes it easy to own a vehicle in any Indian state. Because BH number plates are not state-specific, they are an ideal choice for people with employment that can be transferred, such as government officials, military personnel, or multinational companies. The BH series registration format consists of two letters, a four-digit number, two registration year digits, and "BH" for the Bharat Series. For example: 22 BH 1234 XX. Without the headache of re-registration, this uniformity enables smooth national vehicle transportation.

How to Apply for a BH Series Number?

You can apply for a BH number plate online after filling out an application or through an authorised dealer. 

Online Application:

• Visit the Vahan Portal

• Select vehicle registration, and then an option will appear to register a vehicle. Click on the "Bharat Series" tab.

• Add the personal and vehicle information as requested.

• Upload the documents like the Aadhaar card, PAN number, and Form 60, where applicable.

• Make payment for registration fees.

• An acknowledgement slip with a unique application number will be provided to you post submission

Applying through an Authorised Dealer:

• The dealer will complete Form 20 for you

• Present the documents that are needed to a dealer.

• The dealer will send the application to state authorities for verification.

• After approval, then finally you will have to pay the registration fees.

For a BH series number plate, you have to show or upload these documents:

• Aadhaar card.

• PAN card.

• Identity card issued by the government or PSU.

• Form 60 (for people working in the private sector).

• The GST proof of the company, if it is required.

How to get BH Series Registration for Old Vehicles

The BH registration is mainly for new vehicles. The BH series registration for old vehicles cannot be done directly. Here’s what you can do:

• Existing registration: You must register your previous vehicle according to the local RTO's regulations.

• Re-registration Process: It usually includes submitting Form 27A, such as owner proof, PUC certificate, and proof of payment for road taxes.

• Future Possibilities: Although we have had discussions about expanding the BH series to include older vehicles, as of right now this is aimed at new vehicle registrations.

Conclusion

The second-hand luxury cars market is greatly enhanced by the BH series number plate, which simplifies vehicle registration and provides nationwide validity. This system is particularly beneficial for professionals needing frequent interstate travel, ensuring seamless mobility across India. The BH number plate truly drives you towards a more efficient and convenient future!

FAQs for BH Number Plate

1. Are BH number plates mandatory for all vehicles?

No, not all vehicles are required to have BH number plates. They are specially made for people who are fit for the program, like central government officials or people with transferable jobs.

2. Can I convert my existing number plate to a BH number plate?

Yes, vehicle owners can change the current license plate to a BH series registration by applying for a BH number registration online. The process requires paying the required fees and submitting the necessary documents via the RTO portal.

3. Who is eligible for BH registration?

Government employees, defence personnel, and private sector workers at establishments across states are eligible for BH registration. 

4. Is a BH number plate costly?

BH number plates come with a cost that depends upon the invoice amount of your car. It is calculated like:

• 8% for vehicles under ₹10 lakh

• 10% for vehicles priced between ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh. 

• 12% for vehicles costing above ₹20 lakh.

5. What are the benefits of a BH number plate?

The benefits of the BH number plate are as follows:

• Valid all over India; no need for re-registration in any state.

• Reduced onboarding with an effective registration process and less paperwork.

• More accurate vehicle identification in instances of theft or accidents.