BH Number Plates: Benefits and Registration Guide

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. This registration system is only for non-transport vehicles, and its benefits and features are highly useful, especially when you have 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 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

For Bharat series registration, you have to apply through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) Vahan portal:

Log in to the Vahan portal.
Complete Form 60, if you work in a private sector with offices above four states/UTs and submit employment ID & work certificate. An official ID card is required for government employees.
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.

If you buy a new vehicle, a BH number plate can also be available. In this condition, the dealer may complete the Form 20 for you.

What is the BH number plate eligibility

The BH number plate eligibility criteria are as follows :

One has to be either a government employee or defence personnel or bank employees, and working under government administrative services.
You work in 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.

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, 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 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 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 have to register your old car as per the rules of the local RTO.
Re-registration Process: It usually includes submitting Form 27A, documents, 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!