BH Number Plate Registration in India

Relocating to a different state or city in India often comes with the inconvenience of re-registering your vehicle. To simplify this process, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) introduced the Bharat Series (BH) number plates in 2021.

Designed for individuals who move frequently due to work, these plates allow nationwide validity, removing the hassles of re-registration. This article highlights the key features of BH number plates, outlines the eligibility requirements, and explains the step-by-step application process.

The Transport Department has recently revised the Bharat (BH) number plate policy, substantially increasing the tax liability for vehicle owners. Under the new rule, owners must now pay a one-time road tax for 14 years, replacing the earlier two-year payment cycle.

Moreover, existing BH number plate holders are also required to pay taxes for an additional 12 years to align with the updated regulation. District Transport Offices across the country have already begun implementing the directive, marking a major shift in the taxation structure for BH series vehicles and impacting those frequently relocating for work.

Vehicle owners can obtain a BH series number plate online by following these steps:

• Step 1: Go to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ (MoRTH) Vahan portal.
• Step 2: Enter your credentials to log in, and fill in the required vehicle and personal details.
• Step 3: Upload the scanned copies of the necessary documents, including identity proof, employment proof, and vehicle documents.
• Step 4: Make the payment of road tax through the online system.

Once the process is complete, the Vahan portal automatically generates a BH series registration number at random, valid for use across all states and Union Territories in India.

Here’s how you can apply for a BH number plate offline:

• Step 1: Go to an automobile dealer to begin the BH series application.
• Step 2: The dealer will fill Form 20 on the VAHAN portal on your behalf.
• Step 3: Provide the required documents and other details to the dealer.
• Step 4: After the authorities verify the application details, the BH series registration number is allotted to your vehicle.

The offline process is beneficial for applicants who prefer guidance or assistance while completing the required formalities.

The BH series registration format includes the year of registration (YY), the code BH (Bharat Series), a unique four-digit number, and two random letters representing the vehicle category.

The structure follows the pattern “YY BH #### XX”, where each symbol represents the following information:

• YY: Registration year
• BH: Bharat Series
• ####: Vehicle’s unique identifier
• XX: Consists of random letters from A–Z

For example, a number plate reading “23 BH 4567 AB” indicates that the vehicle was registered in 2023 under the Bharat Series scheme, with “4567” as a unique identifier, and “AB” as the random letters.

Key features of the Bharat (BH) registration number plate include:

• Exclusively applicable to non-transport vehicles.
• Removes the need for vehicle re-registration when moving to another state.
• Recognised and valid throughout India.
• Designed similarly to standard licence plates, featuring a white background with black lettering, but with a distinct registration format.

Given below is the list of people who qualify for the BH number plate eligibility:

• Employees of the Central or State Government
• Personnel serving in the Defence sector
• Staff working in nationalised or private banks
• Officers from various administrative services
• Employees of private organisations with offices operating in four or more states or Union Territories

This system ensures greater convenience and uniformity for professionals frequently on the move. The BH (Bharat) number plate is designated solely for private, non-commercial vehicles such as passenger cars and two-wheelers. It is not applicable to transport vehicles like buses, taxis, or trucks, thereby preserving its exclusive use for personal mobility.

To apply for a BH number plate registration, applicants must provide the following essential documents:

• PAN Card: For identity and tax verification
• Aadhaar Card: As proof of residence and identification
• Official ID Card: Confirming employment eligibility under the BH scheme
• Form 60: Applicable if the applicant does not possess a PAN card

Ensure all documents are valid and up to date to avoid any delays in the registration process.

For private vehicles bearing a BH-series registration, road tax is levied in two-year intervals, with options to pay for multiples of two years (four, six, or eight years). Payments can be made conveniently online and are valid for up to 14 years.

Beyond this period, annual payments become mandatory. The tax rate is calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s invoice price, with reduced rates available for electric vehicles.

To pay your road tax online, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit the official Parivahan website.
• Step 2: Select the state where your BH-series vehicle is registered.
• Step 3: Enter your vehicle registration number.
• Step 4: Click on ‘Pay Your Tax’ under the Online Services section.
• Step 5: Enter your vehicle’s chassis number.
• Step 6: In the Tax Details section, choose whether you want to make a lump-sum payment.
• Step 7: Complete the payment, after which your records will be automatically updated.

Managing your BH number plate registration becomes hassle-free with clear guidelines and online payment options. Understanding the tax structure, validity periods, and benefits for electric vehicles helps you to stay compliant while making informed choices.

By remaining informed and proactive, you can ensure that your vehicle remains compliant with all regulations, allowing you to drive with confidence and peace of mind.