What is the BH Number Plate/ BH Series Number Plate?
The BH (Bharat) number plate is a uniform registration system designed to make it easier for individuals to move their vehicles across states without re-registration. Traditional registration processes require people to re-register their vehicles with the transport department when relocating to another state, which is a time-consuming and bureaucratic procedure. The BH series eliminates this process, ensuring that vehicles can remain registered under the same number plate, regardless of where the owner moves in India.
- Introduced in 2021 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
- Aimed at reducing paperwork and delays in interstate vehicle transfers.
- Initially available to government employees and workers of companies with offices in four or more states.
The format for a BH number plate follows a specific pattern. The format for BH number plates is as follows:
"YY BH #### XX"
- YY: Last two digits of the year of registration.
- BH: Represents the 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 is essential to check whether you are eligible. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Government Employees: To be eligible, you must be a government employee employed by either the central or state government. This status streamlines the BH registration process and ensures compliance with the Bharat series requirements for those who relocate frequently.
- Defence Personnel: Members of the Indian Armed Forces are eligible to apply for a BH number plate due to the nature of their frequent relocations across the country.
- Private Sector Employees: If you are employed by a private company that operates in at least four states or Union Territories, you are eligible to register your vehicle under the BH number plate. This rule is aimed at private-sector employees who frequently travel or relocate 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: Make sure the vehicle you intend to register is in your name and meets all regulatory guidelines. This helps ensure that your application is processed smoothly and aligns with the legal standards for vehicle registration.
- Compliance with Regulations: All vehicles must adhere to local laws, including maintaining valid insurance, a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and other necessary documentation. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to avoid complications during BH registration and to ensure the vehicle's roadworthiness.
BH Number Plate: How to Apply
You can apply for a BH series number plate in Kerala using two primary methods: online through the Parivahan Portal or offline through a dealer.
Online Process: via Parivahan Portal of MoRTH
The online process is straightforward, offering a convenient way to register for a BH series number plate. Follow the steps outlined:
- Visit your state's transport department website or the MoRTH Vahan Portal.
- Locate the application form for vehicle ownership transfer or new vehicle registration.
- Fill in the required details, such as vehicle type, engine number, and chassis number.
- Upload necessary documents like identity proof, address proof, and vehicle insurance.
- Pay the applicable registration fees.
- After processing, you will receive an email or SMS update about your BH series number plate.
- Visit the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) to have your license plate installed on your vehicle.
Offline Process: via Getting in touch with a Dealer to Register
If you prefer, you can also apply through a vehicle dealer. Here's how the dealer will assist you:
- The dealer will submit Form 20 through the Vahan Portal on your behalf.
- Private sector employees working for companies with offices in four or more states must submit Form 60, along with their employment ID and work certificate.
- State authorities will verify your eligibility for the BH series registration.
- Choose "BH Series" from the available options on the application portal.
- Upload the required documents, such as your official ID or Work Certificate (Form 60).
- The RTO will approve the Bharat series registration.
- Pay any applicable fees or motor vehicle tax online.
BH Number Plate: Essential Documents
To apply for a BH number plate, you must provide several important documents. These include:
- Eligibility Proof: A letter from your employer (government or private) confirming your eligibility for the BH series registration.
- Form 20: The standard application form for vehicle registration.
- Form 60: A work certificate or employment letter for private-sector employees.
- Identity Proof: A government-issued document such as an Aadhaar card, passport, or driver's license.
- Address Proof: A valid address proof, such as a utility bill or rent agreement.
- Vehicle Documents: The vehicle's Registration Certificate (RC), insurance papers, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and the invoice for calculating road tax.
Road Tax for BH Series Vehicles
Under the Bharat series number plate system, road tax is paid every two years for private vehicles. After the initial 14 years of road tax payments, vehicle owners must pay taxes annually. The tax rates are determined by the vehicle's price and type (petrol, diesel, or electric).
The following are the road tax rates for vehicles registered under the BH series:
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, keep in mind how the road tax rates impact your overall vehicle expenses. The biannual payment option gives you more flexibility, but it may require regular budgeting compared to a one-time payment.
BH Number Plate: Steps to Pay Road Tax Online
Paying your road tax for a BH number plate online is quick and convenient. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Go to the website of Parivahan.
- From the drop-down menu, choose your state.
- Put your registration number here. Click Proceed when asked to verify your identity using Aadhaar.
- To pay your taxes online, select Online Services.
- Enter your chassis number's final five digits.
- Under Tax Details, select LumpSum Two Year as the tax mode. Details about your car will be displayed.
- Finalise the payment. Your new tax deadline will be posted once it is completed.
Advantages of the BH Number Plate
The BH (Bharat) number plate system offers significant benefits to Kerala vehicle owners, especially those who frequently relocate due to their profession. Here are some key advantages:
Interstate Movement
A significant benefit of the BH number plate is that it allows for easy interstate travel without re-registration when moving between states. This is particularly useful for professionals with transferable jobs, saving time and reducing paperwork when relocating.
Simplified Documentation
The BH registration system streamlines the documentation process for vehicle owners in Kerala. With fewer document requirements and a more straightforward application process, frequently moving individuals can enjoy a hassle-free experience, managing their vehicles efficiently without unnecessary delays.
Flexible Road Tax Payments
The BH number plate offers flexibility in road tax payments by allowing the option to pay in instalments. This helps vehicle owners plan their finances more effectively, as they can spread out the payments instead of making a lump-sum payment, making vehicle ownership more financially manageable.
No Re-registration Hassles
For vehicle owners in Kerala, the BH series eliminates the need to go through the re-registration process when moving to another state. This reduces administrative headaches and allows them to focus on their work or personal commitments without the added burden of changing vehicle registration.
Long-Term Registration Stability
The BH number plate provides long-term stability in vehicle registration, which is especially useful for those who frequently relocate. It ensures that vehicle owners in Kerala can maintain their registration status consistently, offering peace of mind and eliminating the need for repeated changes.
Disadvantages of the BH Number Plate
For car owners in Kerala, the BH (Bharat) number plate system poses certain difficulties, especially for those who move frequently for work. Here are a few major disadvantages:
Limited Eligibility
The BH number plate is only available to bank employees, military personnel, government representatives, and commercial business workers with offices in multiple states or union territories. As a result, the BH series is only beneficial to certain people with cars.
Transport Vehicle Excluded
Buses, taxis, and trucks cannot utilise the BH number plate system because it is only available for passenger cars. Due to the exclusion of numerous vehicle types, particularly those utilised for public transportation or the delivery of products, this restriction lessens the convenience that the BH number plates provide.
Numbers Generated at Random
The system randomly creates the four-digit number, the third unit of the BH series number plate. This implies that car owners cannot select a unique number for their automobiles. As a result, some owners may end up with similar or identical numbers, which can be less personalised and make it harder to identify their vehicles.
Regular Payment of Road Taxes
Every two years, BH series road tax payments must be made. For some people who are already struggling with the general logistics of moving to a new state, this could prove to be an extra challenge to handle. Taking care of these payments in addition to other moving-related duties, can make things more stressful and challenging.
BH Number Plate Renewal Process
The BH registration renewal process is simple, with road tax payments required every two years. After the initial 14-year period, the BH series vehicle owners must renew their road tax annually. Here's what to do for BH number plate renewal in Kerala:
- Visit the Parivahan Portal: Access the official Ministry of Road Transport and Highways portal (Parivahan Sewa) to start the BH number plate renewal process.
- Login and Choose Services: After logging in, go to "Pay Your Tax" under Online Services and select Kerala as your state.
- Enter Vehicle Details: Input the last five digits of your chassis and registration number. The system will automatically display your vehicle details, including the road tax amount due.
- Make the Payment: Choose the road tax payment option for a two-year term or in multiples (e.g., four or six years). Complete the payment, and once confirmed, the updated due date will reflect on your tax details page.
- Receive Confirmation: The portal will update your renewal status, and you'll get a confirmation with the next payment due date.
Conclusion
The BH number plate system is a game-changer for individuals who frequently relocate due to work. In Kerala, the system simplifies vehicle registration, allowing for seamless interstate movement and reducing the paperwork burden. By paying road tax in instalments and avoiding re-registration, vehicle owners can enjoy the convenience and flexibility offered by the BH number plate. Whether you are a government employee, defence personnel, or a private-sector worker, the BH number plate provides a practical solution for managing vehicle ownership while frequently moving across states.
Frequently Asked Questions
