Benefits of Bharat Series (BH) Number Plate

In 2021, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) introduced the Bharat (BH) series number plate to have a single vehicle registration system for all states of India. The BH series number plates allow vehicle owners to relocate between states without having to re-register their vehicles every time they change locations.

The BH series offers benefits like national validity, no-registration hassle every time you relocate to a different state, lower upfront costs, and easier interstate resale. Read this blog to explore all the BH series features and benefits in detail.

What is the BH Number Plate?

The Bharat series is different from regular registrations as it is a national registration system valid across India. The BH series number plate is available for privately-owned, new, non-transport vehicles.  It is ideal for those with jobs that require them to move frequently between the various states of India. A vehicle registered under the BH Series can be used across all 28 states and 8 union territories without the need for re-registration when the owner relocates.

BH Number Plate vs Normal Number Plate: Key Differences

The BH series of vehicle registration differs from the normal vehicle registration in several key areas. The following table highlights some of the main differences:

Features of the BH Number Plate Series

The BH series number plate has a number of features that differentiate it from the standard vehicle registration process in India.

Pan-India Validity

The BH series number plate is valid across India, so vehicles registered under this series do not require re-registration when moving from one state to another. This is a particularly convenient option for those frequently relocating between various states.

Applicable to Non-Transport Vehicles

The BH Series number plate is available only for eligible non-transport vehicles. Examples include privately owned cars and motorcycles. Commercial and transport vehicles are not eligible for BH Series registration. However, eligibility also depends on the criteria set by the government for vehicle owners.

Biennial Road Tax Payment

Road tax associated with a BH series number plate must be paid biennially, as opposed to the 15-year payment terms for normal vehicle registration. The biennial method also reduces the initial tax outflow for vehicle owners.

Tax Calculated on Invoice Value Excluding GST

For BH series registration, road tax is calculated on the invoice value, excluding GST. If a vehicle is purchased at a discounted price, the tax applies to the discounted amount. This results in meaningful savings compared to conventional registration.

Due to the above characteristics, the BH series number plate is an advantageous option for eligible vehicle owners in India.

Pros and Cons of the BH Number Plate Series

The BH series number plate offers several advantages for eligible vehicle owners. However, it also carries certain limitations worth considering before applying for it.

Who is Eligible for a BH Number Plate?

The eligible applicant categories are:

• Employees of a private firm with office branches in four or more states/union territories
• Central and state government employees
• Defence personnel
• Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) employees

Private sector employees must provide documentation to prove their employment in four or more states or union territories. Government, PSU, and defence personnel are eligible directly through their employment.

Tax Structure for BH Series Number Plate

The table below shows the road tax rates for BH series number plates for petrol vehicles.

Diesel vehicles attract an additional 2% on the applicable road tax rate, while electric vehicles are eligible for a 2% waive off on the applicable rate. As a result, the BH Series registration system may offer lower road tax costs for electric vehicle owners compared to certain other vehicle categories.

How to Apply for a BH Series Number Plate Online

To complete your BH number plate application, follow the steps given below: 

• Step 1: Go to MoRTH's Vahan Portal and fill out Form 20.
• Step 2:  If you are a private sector employee with offices in more than four states or UTs, you must fill out Form 60 and submit the employer’s certificate and other required documents.
• Step 3: Select the BH Series registration option during the application process.
• Step 4: Once you submit all the documents, the registering authority verifies your eligibility and reviews the application.
• Step 5: You must pay the necessary fees or applicable road tax online.

If approved, the BH number plate is provided to you along with a digitally generated registration number. In most cases, there is no need for you to physically visit the RTO. Therefore, you save time by applying online and receiving your registration number. 

Read Next: BH vs Normal Registration: Which Saves You More on Road Tax

To Conclude

With the introduction of the BH series registration, vehicle owners who frequently relocate now have a practical solution for interstate mobility. As a BH series registration is valid across India, eligible vehicle owners generally do not need to re-register their vehicles when moving to another state. 

Additionally, the biennial road tax payment structure can help reduce the upfront tax burden. For individuals who meet the eligibility criteria, BH series registration can be a smart long-term option.

FAQs

Does the BH series number plate indicate a specific state?

No, a BH series number plate is not linked to any specific state and is valid across India.

Can I obtain a vehicle loan for a car registered under the BH series?

Yes, you can obtain a vehicle loan for a BH-series registered car based on eligibility and the lender’s terms and conditions.

Is the registration format of a BH series number plate different from regular number plates?

Yes, BH series registrations follow a unique alphanumeric format that differs from state-specific registration numbers.

Is it possible to apply for a BH series number plate after purchasing a vehicle?

This depends on the applicable rules and eligibility criteria at the time of application.

Does the BH Series registration help reduce administrative formalities for employers?

Yes, it can simplify vehicle-related documentation for employees who are often transferred to another state for work purposes.