BH Number Plate in Kolkata: Eligibility & How to Apply

For vehicle owners in Kolkata who frequently relocate due to job transfers, the process of re-registering their vehicles can be a hassle. It can be challenging for government or corporate employees to make a city-to-city transfer for their respective roles.

To simplify transfers and mobility, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has introduced the BH (Bharat) Series number plate in 2021, which is a consolidated vehicle registration system with Pan-India validity and a variety of road tax payment options.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has established an online process, via the Parivahan portal, that makes it easy for vehicle owners in Kolkata to apply for BH number plate. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit Portal: Access the official Parivahan website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
• Step 2: Login: Go to “Online Services,” click on “Vehicle Related Services,” and select “West Bengal” as your state. Enter your credentials and navigate the vehicle registration application.
• Step 3: Enter Vehicle Information: Enter vehicle information such as the vehicle category, engine number, and chassis number.
• Step 4: Upload Documents: Upload documents which include proof of address, ID proof (AADHAR/PAN card) and certificate of employment (compulsory for employees of private companies)
• Step 5: Complete Payment: Complete the required registration and applicable road tax, which will vary depending on vehicle type. Once your application is processed, you will receive a notification regarding your BH number plate by email or SMS.

After approval, your vehicle will be officially registered under the Bharat series, and the BH number plate will be issued. You can collect it from the nearest RTO or get it affixed directly by the vehicle dealer.

Those who prefer in-person assistance can apply for a BH number plate in Kolkata in the offline mode through an authorised vehicle dealer. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Approach any authorised automobile dealer in Kolkata to process BH (Bharat) series applications. They will fill out Form 20 on your behalf on the Vahan Portal.
• Step 2: The state officials will verify your application for the BH registration.
• Step 3: Select the ‘BH Series’ from the application menu, and submit all the required documents, such as Aadhaar card, address proof, vehicle documents, work certificate in Form 60 (if applicable), etc. Pay any necessary charges or taxes due online.
• Step 4: Once the verification is complete and you satisfy the eligibility, the RTO will assign you a BH number plate.

After this, you can visit the designated RTO office in Kolkata to affix the BH number plate on your vehicle.

Here’s the list of all the necessary documents that you must keep handy for BH registration in Kolkata:

• Aadhaar Card
• PAN Card
• Form 60 (applicable for private-sector employees)
• Official ID Proof (Government employee ID card or PSU ID card, as relevant)
• Company’s GST Registration Certificate

The BH number plate is reserved exclusively for personal, non-transport vehicles like passenger cars and two-wheelers. Commercial vehicles such as buses, taxis, and trucks are not eligible for BH Series registration, ensuring it remains limited to private use only.

Everyone can’t apply for a BH series number plate in Kolkata. There are a few categories of people who qualify for the BH (Bharat Series) registration system. These include:

• Employees of the State or Central Government
• Banking Personnel
• Defence Personnel
• People employed in the Administrative Sector
• Judicial Service Staff
• Private sector employees whose companies have branches in four or more states or Union Territories are eligible to get the BH Series registration in Kolkata.

Below are the additional eligibility requirements that you need to meet in order to apply for a BH number plate in Kolkata:

• Employer Documents: Private sector employees would need to enclose a work certificate from the present employer verifying their employment. The work certificate will establish their eligibility to apply for a BH number plate.
• Ownership Compliance: Verify that the vehicle for which you are applying for the BH number plate is registered in your name and that you are compliant with all applicable regulations. Doing so will assure a hassle-free application and approval process.
• Compliance with Regulations: The vehicle takes into consideration all local regulations (valid, third-party insurance policy, PUC certificate, and any other documents that may be required). This verifies the roadworthiness of the vehicle and helps to eliminate any legal issues concerning BH registration.

Renewing your BH number plate in Kolkata is a straightforward online procedure that helps vehicle owners remain compliant with their road tax obligations. Follow these steps below for your BH renewal:

• Step 1: Visit the Parivahan Portal: Head on to the official Parivahan Sewa website managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
• Step 2: Choose the Service: Log in, select “Pay Your Tax” under “Online Services”, and pick “West Bengal” as your state.
• Step 3: Enter Vehicle Details: Provide the last five digits of your chassis and registration number correctly. The portal will display your vehicle details and the tax due (if any).
• Step 4: Make the Payment: Select your preferred payment option (multiples of 2, 4, or 6 years) and complete the payment online to receive your updated due date on the tax details page.
• Step 5: Confirmation of Renewal: Once the payment is processed, your BH registration status will be updated, and the portal will notify you of the next due date.

As per the regulations of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), vehicle owners need to have a valid insurance policy such as commercial vehicle insurance. The motor insurance premium is determined based on various factors such as the type and age of the vehicle, model, location, etc.

Applying for a BH number plate in Kolkata won’t influence your vehicle insurance premium. Therefore, you can avail the convenience of a BH number plate without paying any extra insurance fee.

The BH registration in Kolkata offers a simple yet practical solution for professionals who frequently change jobs, thereby eliminating the hassle of re-registration. It provides nationwide validity, streamlines tax payments, and reduces paperwork. It also helps to reduce one-time hefty tax liability due to its flexible tax payment options.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, opting for a BH number plate will save you a significant amount of time and effort during migration.