BH Number Plate Benefits: Everything You Need to Know

A BH Number Plate is also known as Bharat Series registration. It is a special vehicle registration format introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

Unlike conventional state-specific registrations, a BH registration remains valid across India. Eligible vehicle owners do not need to apply for a new registration when relocating to another state.

A BH registration number follows this format:

YY BH #### XX

Where:

• YY represents the year of registration 

• BH stands for Bharat Series 

• ## is a numeric code

• XX consists of alphabetic characters.

   

The BH Series registration is available to:

• Central Government employees 

• State Government employees 

• Defence personnel 

• Employees of public sector undertakings 

• Employees of private companies with offices in four or more states or Union Territories 

Applicants must provide supporting employment documentation while applying for BH registration.

The BH Series registration is generally available for:

• Private Cars: Personal vehicles used for private transportation, including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and similar passenger vehicles.
• Two-Wheelers: Motorcycles and scooters used for personal purposes. Eligible owners can apply for BH registration for both new and existing two-wheelers, subject to applicable rules.
• Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs): Certain light motor vehicles used for personal and family travel may also qualify under the BH Series registration framework.

Note: Commercial and transport vehicles are usually not covered under the BH Series framework.

The growing popularity of the BH registration system is largely due to the convenience it offers to eligible vehicle owners.

Some of the major benefits of BH number plate registration include:

• No Need for Re-registration

One of the biggest advantages is that vehicle owners do not need to complete fresh registration formalities every time they move to a new state.

• Easier Interstate Relocation

Professionals who have transferable jobs tend to relocate multiple times throughout their careers. A BH registration minimises paperwork associated with such moves.

• Simple Documentation

The process eliminates many administrative requirements that traditionally accompany interstate vehicle transfers.

• Flexible Road Tax Payment

Instead of paying road tax for an extended period upfront, BH vehicle owners can pay road tax in instalments as prescribed under applicable rules.

• Nationwide Recognition

A BH-registered vehicle can be used across states without concerns related to state-specific registration changes.

Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements can apply for BH registration through the designated vehicle registration process.

The general steps include:

1. Visit the Vahan Portal: Applicants can visit the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) Vahan portal or seek assistance from their vehicle dealer. The Vahan portal is the official platform for vehicle registration in India.
2. Fill Out Form 20: The applicant or vehicle dealer must complete Form 20 on the portal. This form captures essential details about the vehicle and its owner.
3. Submit Required Documents: Relevant documents, including proof of identity, address, and employment eligibility, must be submitted. It is important to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date.
4. Pay the Applicable Fees: The registration fee and the applicable road tax amount can be paid online through the portal.
5. Document Verification: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) reviews the submitted documents and verifies the applicant's eligibility for BH Series registration.
6. Issuance of BH Registration: Once the application is approved, the BH registration number is issued, and the vehicle owner receives the registration certificate.

Applicants may be required to submit:

• Proof of Employment: Employment certificate or ID card. This verifies that the applicant is eligible for the BH series registration.

• Identity Proof: Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport. This confirms the identity of the vehicle owner.

• Address Proof: Utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement. This provides the current address of the vehicle owner.

• Vehicle Documents: The invoice, insurance, and pollution under control (PUC) certificate are necessary for the registration process.

Authorities may request additional documents depending on the specific application.

The BH Series registration mainly changes the way a vehicle is registered and managed when moving between states. It does not affect ownership of the vehicle in any way. Owners continue to enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as before.

This means they can still:

• Sell the vehicle when required.

• Renew their motor insurance policy.

• Transfer ownership to another person.

• Update vehicle records and complete other necessary formalities.

The primary difference lies in the reduced need for state-wise registration changes when relocating.

Road tax under the BH Series follows a different structure compared to standard registrations.

Instead of paying tax for the vehicle's entire registration period upfront, BH vehicle owners typically pay road tax for shorter durations as prescribed by applicable regulations. The tax amount is generally linked to the vehicle's invoice price and fuel type.

As a result, individuals who move frequently for work can enjoy a smoother vehicle ownership experience across different states.

While there are several benefits of Bharat number plate registration, certain limitations should also be considered.

• Restricted Eligibility

Not all vehicle owners can apply for the BH series. The facility is currently available only to individuals belonging to certain eligible employment groups.

• Limited Awareness

Many vehicle buyers are still unfamiliar with the BH registration process and eligibility requirements.

• Administrative Variations

Implementation procedures may differ slightly across states and registration authorities.

• Applicable Rules May Change

Vehicle owners should stay updated with the latest government notifications and regulatory changes relating to BH registration.

BH registration holders are required to comply with applicable renewal and tax payment requirements.

Some important points include:

• Road tax must be paid periodically as prescribed.

• If the vehicle is sold, the ownership transfer must be completed through the prescribed legal process.

• Vehicle owners may be required to submit updated documents during renewal or other registration-related procedures.

• All applicable rules and guidelines issued by the transport authorities must be followed from time to time.

Since regulations can change, it is advisable to check the latest official notifications and renewal requirements before completing any registration-related formalities.

The BH Series registration system was introduced to simplify vehicle ownership for individuals who frequently relocate across states. Among the key BH number plate benefits are reduced paperwork, easier interstate movement, flexible road tax payments, and the elimination of repeated re-registration requirements. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and associated regulations can help vehicle owners make informed decisions about adopting the BH registration system.

Besides maintaining valid vehicle registration, having proper motor insurance is equally important. Motor insurance plans from SBI General Insurance can help provide financial protection against unexpected road-related risks and expenses.

1. What are the benefits of a BH number plate in India?

The notable benefits of a BH number plate are as follows:

• Easier interstate relocation

• Reduced paperwork

• Flexible road tax payments

• No repeated vehicle re-registration when moving between states

2. Who is eligible for a BH series registration number?

Central Government employees, State Government employees, defence personnel, public sector employees, and employees of eligible private companies with offices in four or more states or Union Territories may qualify for BH registration.

3. Can I use a BH number plate in all states of India?

Yes. The BH Series registration is recognised across India and is intended to support interstate mobility for eligible vehicle owners.

4. Does a BH number plate reduce road tax costs?

The BH Series does not necessarily reduce road tax liability. However, it allows tax to be paid in installments as per applicable regulations rather than through a single long-term payment.

5. Is re-registration required when moving to another state with a BH Number Plate?

In most cases, re-registration is not required when relocating to another state if the vehicle is registered under the BH Series.