What is Bharat Series Number Plate?
Bharat Series (BH) number plate is a special vehicle registration system introduced by the Government of India in 2021 to make it easier for vehicle owners to move across states without the need to re-register their vehicles. The BH, meaning Bharat, represents a nationwide registration code.
When people relocate to a different state for work or personal reasons, they must re-register their vehicle with the new state's transport authority, which involves paperwork, fees, and time. The BH vehicle registration system eliminates this hassle by allowing seamless transfer of vehicles across states without the need for re-registration.
The BH series is especially useful for central and state government employees, defence personnel, and private sector employees who frequently change locations due to job transfers. Vehicles registered under the BH number registration system carry a number plate format like “XX BH YYYY AA” and are valid nationwide. The BH series saves vehicle owners time and effort, promoting ease of mobility in a rapidly modernising and mobile India.
When Was the BH Series Number Plate Introduced in India?
The Bharat Series (BH) number plate was introduced in India on August 28, 2021, by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). This new registration system was launched to simplify the process of vehicle re-registration when owners move from one state to another. It primarily benefits government employees, defence personnel, and private sector workers who often get transferred to different states. The BH series allows vehicle owners to avoid the time-consuming process of re-registering their vehicles in a new state, promoting a more flexible and hassle-free vehicle ownership experience across India.
The BH Series number plate follows a unique, standardised format for nationwide recognition. Unlike traditional state-specific number plates, the BH format allows vehicles to be driven across India without re-registration. This is particularly helpful for individuals with transferable jobs who often move between states.
22 BH 4477 A
Breakdown of the BH Number Plate Components
- 22 (Year of Registration): This represents the year the vehicle was registered. For example, ‘22’ means 2022.
- BH: Indicates it’s a Bharat Series plate.
- 4477 (Numerical Code): A 4-digit randomly generated number.
- A (Alphabet Code): Random letters for uniqueness.
Examples of BH Number Plates
Here are a few sample Bharat Series number plates to illustrate the format:
- 21 BH 4582 AZ: Registered in the year 2021
- 22 BH 1093 BR: Registered in the year 2022
- 23 BH 8765 CU: Registered in the year 2023
- 24 BH 3456 DP: Registered in the year 2024
These examples make it easier to understand how the BH number plate evolves each year while retaining its standard structure. The series ensures uniformity, convenience, and legal validity across all Indian states.
Features of Bharat Series Number Plate
The Bharat Series (BH) number plate is a government initiative designed to ease the process of vehicle registration for individuals who frequently relocate across states due to work.
Key Features:
- Nationwide Validity: Enables seamless vehicle use across all states and union territories without re-registration.
- Standardised Format: Follows the structure: YY BH #### XX (e.g., 23 BH 1234 AB), where 'BH' denotes the Bharat series.
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicable to employees of the central and state governments, defence personnel, and private sector professionals whose organisations operate in four or more states.
- Flexible Road Tax System: Road tax is payable in multiples of two years, with an annual payment applicable after the 14th year.
- Streamlined Application Process: Registration is facilitated online via the VAHAN portal, typically through the employer or authorised vehicle dealer.
Eligibility for BH Series Number Plate
The Bharat Series (BH) number plate is not open to all vehicle owners. It’s meant for individuals who frequently move across states due to job transfers or relocations. To prevent misuse, the government has defined clear BH number plate eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. These are:
- Central and State Government Employees: Employees working with the Central Government, any State Government, Defence services, or Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are eligible. These individuals often get transferred to different states, so the BH plate helps them avoid re-registering their vehicle every time they move.
- Private Sector Employees: You can apply if you work for a private company with offices in four or more states or Union Territories. However, you must provide valid proof from your employer, such as a letter confirming your job and the company’s multi-state presence. This eligibility is crucial for securing a BH number plate, which falls under the Bharat Series registration system designed for professionals with transferable jobs.
- Leased Company Vehicles: Vehicles bought under a lease or company-owned fleet (by eligible firms) also qualify for the BH series registration.
How to Apply for BH Series (BH) Number Plate
If you're eligible, getting a Bharat Series (BH) number plate is a smooth and mostly online process. It’s designed to make vehicle registration easier for professionals who move across states due to work. Whether you're buying a new car or already have one, this section will walk you through how to get BH number plate registered hassle-free.
Online Process for BH Number Plate Application
(Option A – Self-Application):
- Step 2: Navigate to Online Services. Click "Online Services" and select "Vehicle-Related Services".
- Step 3: Select your State.
- Step 4: Enter your state-specific vehicle registration number and select RTO.
- Step 5: Fill Form 20: Enter all required details such as:
- Personal information (name, address, etc.)
- Vehicle details (make, model, chassis number, engine number)
- Dealer details (name, address, sale certificate details)
- Step 6: Upload Required Documents: Attach scanned copies of:
- Form 21 (Sale Certificate)
- Form 22 (Roadworthiness Certificate)
- Valid insurance, proof of address, and ID
- Step 7: Pay the Registration Fee: Make the payment online as per the fee applicable.
- Step 8: Book an Appointment (if required): Some RTOs may need an online appointment to verify documents and issue the certificate.
- Step 9: Submit the Application: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) reviews the application and approves the BH series registration. Once approved, you must pay the applicable motor vehicle tax or fee online, valid for 2 years under the BH series system.
(Option B – Dealer Assistance):
If you opt for dealer assistance, the dealer will complete Form 20 and handle the process via the VAHAN portal on your behalf, including document uploads, fee payments, and appointment scheduling.
Offline Process for BH Number Plate Application
- Step 1: Inform the dealer that you are eligible for BH series registration while purchasing a new car. Provide all necessary documents.
- Step 2: The dealer will submit the BH registration request online through the VAHAN portal on your behalf.
- Step 3: The local Regional Transport Office (RTO) will verify the submitted documents and process the application.
- Step 4: After approval, the BH series new registration number is generated, and the number plate is issued accordingly.
Documents Required for BH Series (BH) Number Plate
To apply for a Bharat Series number plate, you’ll need the following documents:
- Proof of Employment
- Government employees: Valid government ID
- Private employees: Employment certificate or official letter stating that the company has offices in 4 or more states/UTs
- Address Proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Utility Bill, etc.)
- Identity Proof (PAN card, Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
- GSTIN of Company (For private employees, to verify company eligibility)
- Form 60 Employer declaration for private sector applicants.
- Form 20 Application for Motor Vehicle Registration
- Vehicle Invoice or Ownership Documents (if applying for an existing car)
BH Number Plate Price in India
There’s no separate charge for the BH number plate itself, but the road tax payment method is different. When understanding the BH number plate cost, it's important to note that while the plate doesn't have an extra fee, the road tax is paid in two-year blocks instead of a one-time lump sum.
- Instead of paying 15 years of road tax upfront, BH vehicles pay it in blocks of 2 years.
- The road tax amount depends on the vehicle's cost and fuel type:
Vehicle Price | Percentage of Invoice | Final Tax Rate (As Per Fuel Type) |
| Below ₹10 lakh | 8% | 10% (For Diesel Vehicles) |
| 6% (For Electric Vehicles) |
| Between ₹10 and 20 lakh | 10% | 12% (For Diesel Vehicles) |
| 8% (For Electric Vehicles) |
| Above ₹20 lakh | 12% | 14% (For Diesel Vehicles) |
| 10% (For Electric Vehicles) |
This amount is then divided into two-year blocks. So, your initial payment will only be for 2 years, which lowers the entry cost.
Advantages of BH Series (BH) Number Plate
The Bharat Series (BH) number plate offers a range of benefits to enhance convenience, flexibility, and efficiency for vehicle owners who frequently move across state boundaries.
No Re-Registration Required Across States
You don’t need to re-register your vehicle if you move to a different state. This eliminates the hassle of obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and paying road tax again. It’s beneficial for professionals whose jobs are subject to transfer to different locations or frequent relocations across states. The BH number plate offers a major upgrade over the traditional license plate system by simplifying interstate mobility for eligible vehicle owners.
Simplified Road Tax Payment
Pay tax in 2-year intervals instead of a lump sum for 15 years. This reduces the initial financial burden at the time of purchase. It also offers flexibility if you plan to sell or upgrade your vehicle within a few years. The BH series registration cost structure is designed to be more manageable for professionals who prefer short-term ownership or frequent vehicle changes.
Ideal for Jobs with Frequent Relocation
Especially useful for government employees, defence personnel, or private employees who move often. They no longer need to worry about re-registration hassles in every new state. The BH number plate under the Bharat registration system ensures seamless mobility and legal compliance across India, making interstate vehicle transfers effortless.
Nationwide Validity
The vehicle remains legally valid across India without any local hassles. You can drive freely in any state without needing local registration. This saves time, paperwork, and additional costs associated with inter-state transfers. The new number plate India system, introduced through the BH series, simplifies interstate mobility and reduces bureaucratic barriers for frequent movers.
Online Application & Transparency
The process is streamlined through the VAHAN portal, cutting down paperwork. Everything from application to tax payment can be done online with minimal visits to the RTO. This makes the BH number plate process faster, more transparent, and user-friendly. The new number plate rule introduced under the Bharat Series (BH) system reflects the government's push toward digital, hassle-free vehicle registration.
Disadvantages of BH Series (BH) Number Plate
While the BH Series number plate introduces several conveniences, it also comes with certain limitations that vehicle owners should consider before opting in. Being aware of the disadvantages of BH registration, such as limited eligibility, periodic tax payments, and lack of resale benefits in some cases, can help you make an informed decision.
Limited Eligibility
Only government employees or private employees with a company operating in 4 or more states/UTs can apply. This rule ensures that the BH number plate benefits those with jobs subject to frequent relocation. Proof of employment and company presence across states is mandatory during application. For clarity, the BH full form is Bharat, highlighting its nationwide applicability.
Not Available for Everyone
You're not eligible if you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or working in a company with a local presence. The scheme is specifically designed for professionals who frequently relocate due to work. Lack of multi-state company operations disqualifies you from applying for a BH series number under the new number plates system introduced by the government.
2-Year Tax Cycle Can Be Costlier Long-Term
Over time, paying road tax in blocks may be slightly more expensive than a one-time 15-year payment. This is because the tax rates are calculated in shorter intervals, which can lead to a higher cumulative amount. It’s important to weigh this against the flexibility and convenience the BH number plate offers under the modern number plate registration system.
Lack of Awareness Among RTO Staff or Dealers
In some states, RTOs and dealerships may not be well-informed, which can cause delays or confusion during the process. Lack of training or awareness can lead to incorrect guidance or document rejection. Applicants might need to follow up multiple times to ensure smooth registration under the BH series.
Frequently Asked Questions
