Vehicle registration is a crucial aspect of owning a vehicle in India. It ensures that vehicles are legally recognized and can be tracked for various purposes, including taxation and law enforcement. The introduction of the BH number plate, also known as the Bharat number plate, has revolutionized vehicle registration for frequently relocating individuals. This article delves into the benefits of the BH number plate, the application process, and its impact on vehicle ownership.

Vehicle registration in India is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act. It serves several purposes:

• Legal Recognition: Ensures the vehicle is legally recognized and can be driven on public roads. Without proper registration, a car is considered illegal and can be impounded by authorities.
• Taxation: Helps collect road taxes, which are used for infrastructure maintenance. Road taxes are essential for developing and maintaining highways, bridges, and other public roadways.
• Tracking and Enforcement: This position assists in tracking vehicles for law enforcement and regulatory purposes. Registered vehicles can be easily traced in case of theft, accidents, or involvement in criminal activities.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) introduced the BH number plate, or Bharat number plate, in 2021. It is designed to facilitate seamless vehicle movement across states without re-registration. These types of number plates are exclusive to India. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with transferable jobs, such as government employees, defence personnel, and private sector employees with offices in multiple states. The BH number plate follows a unique format (e.g., XX BH 22 XXXX), where “BH” stands for Bharat, and “22” represents the year of registration. These types of number plates in India are useful, especially in identifying members of the defence personnel and government employees.

• Mobility: BH number plates allow unrestricted movement across states, whereas state-specific plates require re-registration when moving to a new state. This eliminates the bureaucratic hassle and delays associated with re-registration.
• Format: BH number plates follow a standardized format across the country, making it easier for authorities to recognize and process them. State-specific plates, on the other hand, vary in format and design.
• Taxation: Road tax for BH series vehicles is paid in installments, unlike the lump-sum payment for state-specific registrations. This installment-based system reduces the financial burden on vehicle owners and provides greater flexibility.

If you are curious know about the Different Types Of Number Plates In India: A Complete Guide

Want to know more about the different types of number plates In India? Don’t miss our ultimate guide to understand the types and their uses! Read Now.

Eligibility for a BH number plate is restricted to particular groups:

• Government Employees: Central and state government employees frequently relocate due to job transfers.
• Defence Personnel: Members of the armed forces who are often posted in different states.
• Private Sector Employees: Employees of private firms with offices in at least four states or union territories. This includes multinational companies and large corporations.
• Public Sector Employees: Employees of central and state public sector undertakings are transferred across various locations.

The BH series registration is available for non-transport vehicles, including:

• Private Cars: Personal vehicles used for non-commercial purposes. This includes sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs.
• Two-Wheelers: Motorcycles and scooters. The BH series registration is available for both new and existing two-wheelers.
• Light Motor Vehicles: Such as SUVs and MPVs. These vehicles are often used for personal and family transportation.

• Seamless Mobility: No need for re-registration when moving to a new state. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with transferable jobs.
• Simplified Taxation: Road tax is paid in installments, reducing the financial burden. This makes it easier for vehicle owners to manage their finances.
• Uniformity: A standardized registration format across the country. This ensures consistency and simplifies the process for authorities.
• Convenience: Easier to manage vehicle documentation and compliance. The online application process is user-friendly and efficient.

How to get bh number plate is a complex process. It requires various documents, verifications and employment evidence. To Apply for number plates with BH tag involves the following steps:

1. Visit the Vahan Portal: You can access MoRTH’s Vahan portal or seek assistance from your vehicle dealer. The Vahan portal is the official platform for vehicle registration in India.
2. Fill Out Form 20: The dealer or applicant completes Form 20 on the Vahan portal. This form includes details about the vehicle and its owner.
3. Submit Documents: Provide necessary documents, including proof of employment and identity. Ensure that all records are accurate and up-to-date.
4. Pay Fees: You can pay the applicable fees online. The fees include the registration fee and the first installment of road tax.
5. Verification: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) verifies the documents and eligibility. This step ensures that only eligible individuals receive the BH number plate.
6. Issuance: Upon approval, the BH number plate is issued. The vehicle owner receives the registration certificate and the number plate.

This is the complete breakdown of the steps required to apply for number plates with the BH tag attached.

Also Read: A 2024 Guide to BH Number Plates in Maharashtra

• 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.

The BH number plate simplifies vehicle ownership for individuals who frequently relocate. It eliminates the need for re-registration, reduces administrative hassles, and ensures compliance with legal requirements across states. Additionally, the installment-based road tax payment system makes it financially easier for vehicle owners. The standardized format of the BH number plate also enhances authorities' recognition and vehicle processing.

The BH number plate is a significant step towards simplifying vehicle registration and ownership in India. It offers numerous benefits, including seamless mobility, simplified taxation, and uniformity across states. Vehicle owners can use this innovative registration system by understanding the application process and eligibility criteria. Whether you are a government employee, defense personnel, or a private sector employee with a transferable job, the BH number plate ensures that your vehicle registration is hassle-free and compliant with legal requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions on BH Number Plate

No, the BH series number plate is only available for new vehicle registrations. Existing registrations cannot be converted to the BH series. If you wish to take advantage of the BH number plate, you will need to purchase a new vehicle and apply for the BH series registration at the time of purchase.

If you sell a vehicle with a BH number plate, the new owner must re-register it in their respective state or union territory. The BH series registration is non-transferable, and the new owner must follow the standard registration process in their state.

Yes, a BH series registered vehicle can be driven across all states and union territories without restrictions. However, it is critical to comply with local traffic rules and regulations, including any specific restrictions that may apply to certain areas or zones.

No, the BH number plate only applies to non-transport vehicles used for personal purposes. Commercial vehicles, including taxis, trucks, and buses, are not eligible for BH series registration.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways introduced the BH number plate on August 28, 2021. It was part of an initiative to simplify the vehicle registration process and facilitate seamless mobility across states.

The BH registration number is available for two-wheelers, including motorcycles and scooters. This allows two-wheeler owners to benefit from the same advantages as car owners, including seamless mobility and simplified taxation.

The number “22” in the BH number plate represents the year of registration. For example, a vehicle registered in 2022 will have “22” in its number plate. This helps identify the year of registration and ensures that the registration details are up-to-date.

BH series registration costs include the road tax, the installments paid, and the registration fee. The exact amount varies based on the vehicle type and state regulations. The installment-based payment system makes it easier for vehicle owners to manage their finances.

The full form of the BH number plate is the Bharat number plate. It signifies the nationwide applicability and standardized format of the registration.

Disclaimer: The above information is indicative in nature. For more details on the risk factor, terms and conditions, please refer to the Sales Brochure and Policy Wordings carefully before concluding a sale.