The BH (Bharat) number plate is a vehicle registration system launched by the Indian government to facilitate individuals with transferable jobs, such as government employees, defence personnel, and certain private-sector workers. This system allows seamless vehicle movement across states without needing re-registration when changing locations. The BH series simplifies vehicle ownership for those who relocate frequently by eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. For more information, you can visit the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
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What is the BH Number Plate/BH Series Number Plate?
The BH number plate system was introduced to simplify interstate vehicle transfers. Previously, individuals moving to a new state had to go through the lengthy process of re-registering their vehicles, which was often costly and time-consuming. The BH series makes this unnecessary, allowing vehicles to keep their registration number regardless of the owner's location in India.
Introduced in 2021 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
It aims to reduce paperwork and delays when transferring vehicles between states.
Initially available to government employees and employees of companies with offices in four or more states.
BH Number Plate Format
The format for BH number plates is as follows:
"YY BH #### XX"
YY: Last two digits of the registration year.
BH: Bharat series code.
####: A four-digit numeric code.
XX: Two random alphabetic characters.
BH Number Plate: Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for a BH number plate, evaluating your eligibility and personal circumstances is essential to ensure that it fits your needs and lifestyle.
Government Employee: To qualify, you must be a government employee working for either the central or state government. This status helps facilitate a smooth BH registration process and ensures you meet the Bharat series requirements for frequent relocations.
Defence Services Member: Members of the defence forces are eligible for the BH number plate as they often relocate. This status allows them to register vehicles under a system simplifying interstate movement without re-registration.
Private-Sector Employment: If you work for a private-sector company that operates in at least four states or Union Territories, you can apply for a BH number plate. This eligibility supports professionals who need to travel frequently for work.
Employer Documentation: You must provide your employer's documentation verifying your employment status. This letter is crucial as it confirms your eligibility for the BH series number plate registration process.
Vehicle Registration: Ensure the vehicle you wish to register is in your name and adheres to all regulatory requirements. This ensures that your application is processed smoothly and meets the legal standards for vehicle registration.
Compliance with Regulations: All vehicles must comply with local laws, including having valid insurance, a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and other relevant documentation. Compliance is essential to avoid issues during BH registration and maintain roadworthiness.
BH Number Plate: How to Apply
You can obtain a BH series number plate through the MoRTH's Vahan Portal or by contacting a dealer. Here's how:
Online Process: Via the Parivahan Portal of MoRTH
Visit your state's transportation department's website or the MoRTH Vahan Portal.
Look for the application to transfer ownership or register for a new vehicle.
Enter the required information, such as the type of vehicle, engine number, and chassis number.
Upload the necessary documents, including proof of identity, address, and auto insurance.
Pay the registration costs.
Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email or SMS notification regarding your BH series number plate.
To have your license plate affixed to your car, visit the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Offline Process: Getting in Touch with a Dealer to Register
The dealer will complete Form 20 on the Vahan Portal on your behalf.
Private-sector employees with offices in more than four states must submit Form 60, their employment ID, and a work certificate.
The state officials will confirm your qualifications.
Select "BH Series" from the application menu.
Submit the necessary paperwork, such as a copy of your official identification card or your Working Certificate (Form 60).
The RTO will authorise the registration of the Bharat series.
Pay online for any applicable fees or motor vehicle tax.
BH Number Plate: Essential Documents
When registering for a BH number plate, you will need several essential documents:
Eligibility Proof: A letter from your employer confirming your eligibility.
Form 20: The official application for vehicle registration.
Form 60: A Working Certificate confirming your employment details.
Identity and Address Proof: Government-issued documents like an Aadhaar card, passport, or driver's license to verify your identity and address.
Vehicle Documents: Original Registration Certificate (RC), insurance papers, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and vehicle invoice for road tax calculations.
Road Tax for BH Series Vehicles
Road tax for private vehicles registered under the Bharat series is paid every two years (or in multiples of two, like four, six, or eight years). The tax is easily payable online and is valid for 14 years, after which it must be paid annually. The tax amount is determined based on the vehicle's invoice price, with electric vehicles subject to reduced rates.
Tax Breakdown by Vehicle Price Range:
Vehicle Price Range
Petrol Vehicles
Diesel Vehicles
Under ₹10 lakhs
8%
10%
₹10 lakhs to ₹20 lakhs
10%
12%
Above ₹20 lakhs
12%
14%
Before applying for a BH number plate, consider how these road tax rates affect your overall vehicle costs. While the biannual payment method offers flexibility, it requires regular budgeting to ensure timely payments.
BH Number Plate: Steps to Pay Road Tax Online
Paying your road tax for a BH number plate online is a straightforward process. Here's how:
Visit the Parivahan Website: Go to the official Parivahan website.
Select Your State: From the drop-down menu, choose Uttarakhand.
Enter Registration Number: Enter your vehicle's registration number and proceed to verify your identity using Aadhaar.
Select Online Services: Under the "Online Services" tab, choose "Pay Your Tax."
Enter Chassis Number: Enter the last five digits of your chassis number.
Tax Mode: Under "Tax Details," select "LumpSum Two Year" as the tax mode. The portal will display your vehicle details.
Finalise Payment: Complete the payment, and your new tax deadline will be updated on the portal.
Advantages of the BH Number Plate
The BH (Bharat) number plate system offers several key advantages for vehicle owners in Uttarakhand, particularly those who frequently relocate due to work. Here are some notable benefits:
Interstate Movement
A significant benefit of the BH series number plate is the ability to move vehicles seamlessly across state borders. Owners no longer need to endure the cumbersome re-registration process when relocating, saving time and reducing paperwork. This is especially helpful for professionals with transferable jobs.
Ease of Documentation
The BH registration system streamlines the documentation process, making it more straightforward for vehicle owners in Uttarakhand. With fewer requirements and a more straightforward application procedure, frequent movers can manage their vehicles efficiently, minimising delays.
Flexibility in Road Tax
BH number plates offer the option to pay road tax in instalments, providing financial flexibility for vehicle owners. This system allows for better expense planning, as individuals can avoid a lump sum payment, making vehicle ownership more manageable.
Reduced Hassle with Re-registration
The hassle of re-registering in a new state is eliminated for vehicle owners under the BH series. This convenience allows individuals to focus on their work and personal lives without dealing with frequent vehicle re-registration every time they relocate.
Long-Term Registration Stability
The BH series number plate system offers long-term registration stability, even for those who frequently change states. This stability ensures that vehicle owners can maintain their registration status over time, providing a sense of continuity despite regular relocations.
Disadvantages of the BH Number Plate
For car owners in Uttarakhand, particularly those who frequently relocate for work, the BH (Bharat) number plate system presents several challenges. Here are a few key disadvantages:
Randomly Generated Numbers
The second half of the BH series number plate displays a randomly generated four-digit number. This implies that automobile owners cannot select a unique number for their cars. As a result, some car owners can discover that their numbers are identical or comparable.
Frequent Payments of Road Taxes
Every two years, road tax payments for the BH series are due. This could be an extra burden for some people juggling moving obligations. Managing these payments on top of other moving-related obligations could be more challenging and unpleasant.
Limitations on Registration
Only government agents, bank workers, military personnel, and employees of businesses operating in numerous states or union territories are permitted to use the BH license plate. Therefore, only specific car owners profit from the BH series.
Service Cars are Not Included
Buses, taxis, and trucks cannot utilise the BH number plate system because it is only available for passenger cars. The absence of several vehicle categories, particularly those utilised for public transportation or the transfer of goods, reduces the convenience that the BH number plates offer.
BH Number Plate Renewal Process
BH registration renewal in Uttarakhand is a simple online process that ensures continued compliance with road tax regulations. The BH series, designed to ease vehicle movement across states, requires vehicle owners to pay road tax every two years initially and then annually after 14 years. Here's how to do a BH number plate renewal:
Visit the Parivahan Portal: Access the official portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Parivahan Sewa).
Login and Select Services: Choose "Pay Your Tax" under Online Services, then select Uttarakhand as your state.
Vehicle Details: Enter the last five digits of your chassis number and registration number. The portal will display your vehicle's details and the road tax due.
Payment Process: Select the payment option for a two-year term (or multiples of two, like four or six years). Complete the payment, and your updated tax deadline will be reflected on the portal.
Confirmation: The portal will update your renewal status and provide the next payment due date after payment confirmation.
Conclusion
The BH number plate is an excellent option for individuals who frequently relocate due to work. It simplifies car registration, facilitates easy road tax payments, and eliminates the need for re-registration in every state. While it's primarily available for public and private sector employees, more people in India may benefit from it. The BH number plate can save you significant time and hassle if you're eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to BH Number Plate in Uttarakhand
Can I convert my existing state registration to a BH series in Uttarakhand?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can convert your existing state registration to a BH series in Uttarakhand by applying through the Vahan Portal or visiting a Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Can I sell a vehicle with a BH series number plate in Uttarakhand?
You can sell a vehicle with a BH series number plate anywhere, including Uttarakhand. However, if the new owner is not eligible for the BH series, they must re-register the vehicle under Uttarakhand's state system.
What documents are required for BH number plate renewal?
For BH number plate renewal, you will need to provide the vehicle's registration details and possibly employment-related documents if eligibility changes, such as switching jobs or moving states. Initially, Aadhaar verification is required during the online renewal process.
Are commercial vehicles eligible for BH registration renewal?
BH number plates are only available for private vehicles, not commercial or transport vehicles like buses or trucks.
Are there any additional charges for diesel or electric vehicles during the renewal of the BH registration?
Yes, diesel vehicles incur an additional 2% charge during BH registration renewal, while electric vehicles enjoy a 2% discount on road tax.
Are electric vehicles eligible for the BH series number plate in Uttarakhand?
Yes, electric vehicles can be registered under the BH series in Uttarakhand and benefit from lower road tax rates than petrol and diesel vehicles.
