The BH (Bharat) number plate is a vehicle registration system introduced by the Indian government to simplify vehicle ownership for individuals with transferable jobs, such as government employees, defence personnel, and select private sector workers. This initiative allows seamless vehicle movement across states without needing re-registration when relocating, aiming to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and enhance convenience for frequent movers. 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 aims to streamline interstate vehicle transfers. Previously, individuals relocating to a new state faced a lengthy and often costly re-registration process. The BH series eliminates this requirement, allowing vehicles to retain their registration regardless of the owner's location in India.
Introduced in 2021 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
It aimed 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 or Union Territories.
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, it's essential to evaluate your eligibility based on your circumstances:
Government Employee: To qualify, you must be a government employee of either the central or state government, facilitating a smooth BH registration process.
Defence Services Member: Members of the defence forces are eligible for the BH series number plate due to their frequent relocations.
Private-Sector Employment: If you work for a private-sector company operating in at least four states or Union Territories, you can apply for a BH series number plate.
Employer Documentation: You must provide documentation from your employer verifying your employment status, which is crucial for the Bharat series registration process.
Vehicle Registration: Ensure the vehicle you wish to register is in your name and meets all regulatory requirements.
Compliance with Regulations: All vehicles must comply with local laws, including valid insurance and a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.
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 the Portal: Access your state's transportation department's website or the MoRTH Vahan Portal.
Application Submission: Look for the application to transfer ownership or register for a new vehicle.
Enter Information: Input the required details, including vehicle type, engine number, and chassis number.
Document Upload: Upload necessary documents such as identity proof, address proof, and insurance.
Payment: Cover the registration costs.
Notification: Once processed, you will receive a notification regarding your BH series number plate.
Affix Licence Plate: Visit the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) to have your license plate affixed to your vehicle.
Offline Process: Getting in Touch with a Dealer to Register
Dealer Assistance: The dealer will complete Form 20 on the Vahan Portal on your behalf.
Submission of Forms: Submit Form 60, your employment ID, and a work certificate.
Eligibility Verification: State officials will verify your qualifications.
Application Selection: Select "BH Series" from the application menu.
Documentation: Send the required paperwork, including your identification card or Working Certificate (Form 60).
RTO Authorisation: The RTO will authorise the registration of the Bharat series.
Payment: Pay any applicable fees or motor vehicle tax online.
BH Number Plate: Essential Documents
When registering for a BH series number plate, you will need to provide 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 (Aadhaar, passport, or driver's license).
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. The tax is payable online and is valid for 14 years. After this period, it must be paid annually. The tax amount is determined based on the vehicle's invoice price, with electric vehicles subject to reduced rates.
Breakdown of Tax Rates:
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, it's important to consider how these road tax rates impact your overall vehicle costs. While the biannual payment option allows for greater flexibility than a one-time payment, it may require consistent budgeting to manage effectively.
BH Number Plate: Steps to Pay Road Tax Online
Paying your road tax for a BH series number plate online is straightforward. Here's how:
Go to Parivahan: Visit the official website.
Select State: Choose your state from the drop-down menu.
Enter Registration Number: Input your registration number and proceed to verify your identity via Aadhaar.
Online Services: Select the "Online Services" option to pay your taxes.
Chassis Number: Enter the last five digits of your chassis number.
Tax Details: Choose "LumpSum Two Year" as the tax mode to see your vehicle's details.
Finalise Payment: Complete the payment, and your new tax deadline will be displayed.
Advantages of the BH Number Plate
The BH (Bharat) number plate system offers several key benefits for vehicle owners in Chandigarh, especially those who frequently relocate for work. Here are some notable advantages:
Interstate Movement
A major benefit of theBH series number plate is the ease of interstate vehicle movement. Owners no longer need to undergo the lengthy re-registration process when moving to a new state, saving time and cutting down on paperwork. This feature is especially beneficial for professionals with transferable jobs.
Simplified Documentation
The BH registration process streamlines the documentation requirements for vehicle owners. With fewer forms to complete and a simplified application procedure, those who frequently relocate can enjoy a more efficient experience, helping them manage vehicle registrations without unnecessary delays.
Flexible Road Tax Payments
TheBH seriesallows road tax in instalments, making financial planning easier for vehicle owners. This flexibility allows individuals to spread out their payments, reducing the burden of paying a large sum upfront and making vehicle ownership more manageable.
Reduced Re-registration Hassle
The BH number plate holders avoid the complexities of state-specific re-registration. This convenience allows vehicle owners to focus on their personal or professional commitments without worrying about re-registering their vehicle when relocating.
Long-Term Registration Stability
For those who move frequently, the BH number plate ensures long-term stability in vehicle registration. Owners can maintain registration across multiple relocations, providing continuity and peace of mind despite frequent moves.
Disadvantages of the BH Number Plate
For car owners in Chandigarh, particularly those who frequently relocate for work, the BH (Bharat) number plate system presents several challenges. Here are a few key disadvantages:
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.
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.
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.
BH Number Plate Renewal Process
Renewing your BH registration in Chandigarh is a straightforward online process that ensures continued compliance with road tax requirements. The renewal process of the Bharat series number plate requires payment of road tax every two years initially and annually after 14 years. Here's how to carry out your BH number plate renewal:
Visit the Parivahan Portal: Go to the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Parivahan Sewa) to begin the vehicle-renewal process for Chandigarh.
Login and Select Services: After logging in, navigate to "Pay Your Tax" under the Online Services section. Select Chandigarh as your state.
Vehicle Details: Enter the last five digits of your chassis and registration number. The portal will automatically display your vehicle's details, including the road tax due.
Payment Process: Choose the payment option for two years (or in multiples like four or six years). Complete the payment, and the updated due date will be shown on your tax details page once the payment is successfully processed.
Confirmation and Record: After payment, the portal will update the renewal status and provide the following road tax payment due date.
Conclusion
The BH number plate system is an excellent option for individuals who frequently relocate for work, simplifying vehicle registration, enabling quick road tax payments, and eliminating the need for re-registration in every state. While primarily designed for public and private sector workers, more residents of Chandigarh may benefit from this system in the future. The BH number plate could save you significant time and effort if you qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to BH Number Plate in Chandigarh
Can I convert my existing state registration to a BH series in Chandigarh?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can convert your existing state registration to a BH series in Chandigarh 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 Chandigarh?
You can sell a vehicle with aBH series number plate anywhere, including Chandigarh. However, if the new owner is not eligible for the BH series, they must re-register the vehicle under Chandigarh's state system.
What documents are required for BH number plate renewal?
For BH number plate renewal, you must provide the vehicle's registration details and possibly employment-related documents if there are eligibility changes (such as changing jobs or 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 for private vehicles, not for commercial or transport vehicles such as buses or trucks.
Are there any additional charges for diesel or electric vehicles during the BH registration renewal?
Yes, diesel vehicles have an extra 2% charge during the BH registration renewal, while electric vehicles receive a 2% discount on road tax.
Are electric vehicles eligible for the BH series number plate in Chandigarh?
Electric vehicles can be registered under theBH series in Chandigarh and benefit from reduced road tax rates.
