The BH (Bharat) number plate is an innovative vehicle registration system introduced by the Indian government to facilitate the movement of vehicles for individuals with transferable jobs. The BH number plate allows seamless vehicle transfer without the hassle of re-registration, simplifying vehicle ownership for those who frequently relocate. This blog will explore Assam's BH number plate, features, eligibility criteria, application process, road tax, advantages, and renewal procedures. 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 launched to simplify the interstate transfer of vehicles. Before its introduction, vehicle owners faced lengthy and costly re-registration processes when moving to a new state. The BH series eliminates the need for this cumbersome procedure, allowing vehicle owners to retain their registration regardless of their location in India.
Introduced in 2021 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
The BH series aims to reduce paperwork, save time, and enhance convenience for frequently relocating individuals.
Initially accessible to government employees and employees of companies with operations 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, assessing your eligibility is essential to ensure that this registration system meets your needs and lifestyle.
Government Employee: To qualify for a BH series number plate, you must be a government employee working for either the central or state government. This eligibility ensures a smooth registration process and meets the requirements for individuals needing to relocate frequently.
Defence Services Member: Members of the defence forces are also eligible for the BH number plate, allowing them to register their vehicles under a system that simplifies interstate movement without re-registration.
Private-Sector Employment: If you are employed by a private-sector company that operates in at least four states or Union Territories, you can apply for a Bharat series number plate. This eligibility caters to professionals who frequently travel for work.
Employer Documentation: To verify your eligibility, you must provide documentation from your employer confirming your employment status. This letter is crucial as it supports your BH series number plate registration process application.
Vehicle Registration: Ensure that the vehicle you wish to register is in your name and complies with all regulatory requirements. This step is essential for a smooth BH registration process.
Compliance with Regulations: All vehicles must adhere to local laws, including valid insurance, a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and any other relevant documentation. Compliance is necessary to avoid issues during the BH registration process and to 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. Below is a detailed guide on both the online and offline application processes.
Online Process: Via the Parivahan Portal of MoRTH
Visit the Parivahan Portal: Access the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Parivahan Sewa).
Application for Vehicle Registration: Look for the application to transfer ownership or register a new vehicle registration.
Enter Required Information: Fill in the necessary details, such as the type of vehicle, engine number, and chassis number.
Upload Necessary Documents: Submit required documents, including proof of identity, address verification, and auto insurance.
Payment of Registration Costs: Cover the registration costs through the portal.
Receive Notification: Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email or SMS notification regarding yourBH series number plate.
Affix License Plate: Visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) closest to you to have your licence plate affixed to your vehicle.
Offline Process: Getting in Touch with a Dealer to Register
Contact a Dealer: Approach a dealer who will complete Form 20 on the Vahan Portal on your behalf.
Submission of Form 60: Employees in the private sector with offices in more than four states must submit Form 60, their employment ID and a work certificate.
Verification by State Officials: The state officials will confirm your qualifications for the BH series registration.
Select BH Series: Choose the "BH Series" option from the application menu.
Submit Required Paperwork: Send the necessary documents, including a copy of your official identification card and the Working Certificate (Form 60).
RTO Authorisation: The RTO will authorise the registration of the Bharat series.
Payment of Fees: Pay any applicable fees or motor vehicle tax online.
BH Number Plate: Essential Documents
When registering for a BH number plate, you must provide several essential documents:
Eligibility Proof: A letter from your employer confirming your eligibility for the BH series.
Form 20: The official application for vehicle registration.
Form 60: A Working Certificate that verifies your employment details.
Identity and Address Proof: Government-issued documents like an Aadhaar card, passport, or driver's license to confirm 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 is paid every two years for vehicles registered under the BH series in Assam. The tax is easily payable online and remains valid for 14 years; annual payments are required thereafter. The vehicle's invoice price determines the tax amount, with reduced rates applicable to electric vehicles.
Road Tax Breakdown:
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 Bharat series number plate, consider how these road tax rates affect your overall vehicle costs. The biannual payment system allows for better financial planning compared to one-time payments.
BH Number Plate: Steps to Pay Road Tax Online
Paying your road tax for a BH number plate online is a straightforward process that saves time. Follow these steps for efficient online payment:
Go to the Parivahan Website: Access the official website.
Select Your State: From the drop-down menu, choose Assam.
Enter Registration Number: Input your registration number and click Proceed. You will be prompted to verify your identity using Aadhaar.
Select Online Services: Choose Online Services to pay your road tax.
Enter Chassis Number: Input the last five digits of your chassis number.
Tax Details: Under Tax Details, select "LumpSum Two Year" as the tax mode. Your vehicle details will be displayed.
Finalise Payment: Complete the payment. Your new tax deadline will be posted once the payment is processed.
Advantages of the BH Number Plate
The BH (Bharat) number plate system offers several key benefits for Assam vehicle owners, especially those who frequently move due to work. Here are some of the significant advantages:
Interstate Mobility
One of the standout benefits of the BH series number plate is the ease of interstate vehicle movement. Vehicle owners don't have to undergo the lengthy re-registration process when moving to a different state. This is especially useful for professionals with transferable jobs, saving time and paperwork.
Simplified Documentation
TheBH registration system streamlines the documentation process for vehicle owners in Assam. With fewer formalities and a more straightforward application process, those who frequently relocate can manage their vehicles more efficiently, minimising delays and administrative burdens.
Flexible Road Tax Payments
With the Bharat series number plate, vehicle owners can pay road tax in instalments, providing more flexibility in financial planning. This feature helps individuals manage their expenses better by avoiding a large upfront payment, making vehicle ownership more affordable.
Less Re-registration Hassle
The BH series eliminates the need for state-specific re-registration, reducing the hassle for vehicle owners. This ensures they can focus on their work or personal matters without worrying about the legal complexities of re-registering their vehicle each time they move.
Long-Term Registration Stability
For those who relocate frequently, the BH series number plate offers long-term stability in vehicle registration. This provides a sense of continuity, allowing owners to maintain their registration status across states without re-registering their vehicles each time they shift locations.
Disadvantages of the BH Number Plate
For car owners in Assam, 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.
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.
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.
BH Number Plate Renewal Process
Renewing your BH registration in Assam involves a straightforward online process that ensures continued compliance with road tax requirements. The BH series, introduced to facilitate more effortless vehicle movement across states, requires vehicle owners to pay road tax every two years initially and, after 14 years, annually. Here's how you can do your BH number plate renewal:
Visit the Parivahan Portal: Access the official portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Parivahan Sewa) to initiate the renewal process.
Login and Select Services: Choose "Pay Your Tax" under Online Services, then select Assam as your state.
Vehicle Details: Enter the last five digits of your chassis and registration number. The portal will populate your vehicle's details, including the road tax due.
Payment Process: Select the payment option for a two-year term (or multiples thereof, like four or six years). Complete the payment; the updated due date for your road tax will be communicated through email or SMS.
Obtain Renewal Receipt: Once payment is processed, you will receive a receipt confirming the renewal of your BH number plate.
Documentation and Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the renewal receipt and any updated documents in case of future inspections.
Conclusion
The BH number plate system is a progressive step in simplifying vehicle registration for individuals who frequently relocate due to work. In Assam, this system enhances convenience, reduces bureaucracy, and supports the seamless movement of vehicles across states. By offering clear eligibility criteria, a straightforward application process, and advantages such as interstate mobility and reduced paperwork, the BH series is an excellent option for eligible vehicle owners in Assam. Embracing this registration system not only facilitates efficient vehicle ownership but also supports the overall vision of the Indian government for better road transport management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to BH Number Plate in Assam
Can I convert my existing state registration to a BH series in Assam?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can convert your existing state registration to a BH series in Assam 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 Assam?
Yes, you can sell a vehicle with aBH series number plate anywhere, including Assam. However, if the new owner is not eligible for the BH series, they must re-register the vehicle under Assam's state system.
What documents are required for BH number plate renewal?
For BH number plate renewal, you need to provide the vehicle's registration details and potentially employment-related documents if your eligibility has changed (such as switching jobs or moving states). Initially, Aadhaar verification is used during the online renewal process.
Are commercial vehicles eligible for BH registration renewal?
No, BH number plates are only available for private vehicles, not commercial or transport vehicles like buses or trucks.
Are there additional charges for diesel or electric vehicles during BH registration renewal?
Yes, diesel vehicles incur an extra 2% charge duringBH registration renewal, while electric vehicles receive a 2% discount on road tax.
Are electric vehicles eligible for the BH series number plate in Assam?
Yes, electric vehicles can be registered under the BH series in Assam and enjoy lower road tax rates than petrol and diesel vehicles.
