The Indian government implemented the BH (Bharat) number plate system to assist those in transferable occupations, such as government employees, members of the armed forces, and certain private sector workers. Smooth cross-state movement without re-registration is made possible by this technology when a vehicle's location changes. It aims to make owning a car easier by reducing administrative obstacles and enhancing convenience for individuals who travel frequently. Further details are available on the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Read on to find out more!
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What is the BH Number Plate/ BH Series Number Plate?
The BH number plate system aims to simplify interstate vehicle transfers. Previously, when individuals moved to a new state, they had to go through the lengthy process of reregistering their vehicles, which was often costly. TheBH series makes this unnecessary, allowing vehicles to keep their registration no matter where the owner moves in India.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) introduced it in 2021.
Created to cut down on paperwork and delays in interstate auto transfers.
Initially accessible to workers in the government and businesses having offices 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
To make sure it suits your needs and lifestyle, it is crucial to assess your eligibility and unique situation before applying for a BH number plate. The following criteria determine eligibility for a BH number plate in Lakshadweep:
A government worker: Being employed by the federal government or a state government is a requirement for eligibility. This status makes it easier to register for BH and guarantees that you fulfil the requirements of the Bharat series for frequent moves.
Member of the Defence Services: The BH number plate is available to members of the armed forces because they frequently move. With this status, they can register cars under a system that makes moving between states easier and eliminates the need for re-registration.
Employment in the Private Sector: If you work for a private company that operates in at least four states or Union Territories, you are qualified to apply for a BH number plate. This eligibility supports professionals whose jobs require them to travel frequently.
Documentation: You must present documentation from your employer confirming your employment status. This letter is significant since it confirms that you are qualified to register for the BH series number plate.
Vehicle Registration: Verify that the vehicle you wish to register is in your name and meets all legal requirements. This ensures that your application is processed effectively and conforms with all relevant vehicle registration rules.
Regulation Compliance: Every vehicle must abide by local rules, which include having a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, current insurance, and any other necessary paperwork. Maintaining roadworthiness and avoiding problems during BH registration require this compliance.
BH Number Plate: How to Apply
You can obtain aBH 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
Go to the Portal: Go to the website of your state's transportation agency or the MoRTH Vahan Portal.
Selection of Applications: Seek out the application for registering a new vehicle or transferring ownership.
Enter the vehicle's information: Enter the necessary data, including the vehicle type, engine number, and chassis number.
Upload Required Documents: Attach required documents, such as proof of address, identification, and motor insurance.
Pay for the registration fee: Finalise the registration fee payment.
Notification: You will receive an email or SMS with information about your BH series number plate as soon as your application has been processed.
Plate Affixation: Go to the closest Regional Transport Office (RTO) to have your number plate attached to your vehicle.
Offline Process: Getting in Touch with a Dealer to Register
Dealer Assistance: Contact a dealer who will complete Form 20 on the Vahan Portal on your behalf.
Documentation for Private Sector Employees: Employees in the private sector with offices in more than four states must submit Form 60, along with their employment ID and a work certificate.
Qualification Confirmation: The state officials will verify your qualifications.
Application Menu Selection: Select "BH Series" from the application menu.
Submission of Paperwork: Provide necessary documents, such as a copy of your official identification card or your Working Certificate (Form 60).
Authorisation and Fees: The RTO will authorise the registration of the Bharat series, and you will need to pay any applicable fees or motor vehicle tax online.
BH Number Plate: Essential Documents
When applying for a BH number plate, you must submit several necessary documents:
Proof of Eligibility: an employment letter attesting to your eligibility.
Form 20: The formal application for registering a car.
Form 60: A Working Certificate attesting to your job information.
Proof of Identity and Address: Official documents such as a driver's number, passport, or Aadhaar card are used to confirm your identity and address.
More Documents: the original registration certificate (RC), insurance documents, the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and the vehicle invoice.
Road Tax for BH Series Vehicles
For private automobiles registered under the Bharat series, road tax is paid every two years or every two years in multiples of two, like four, six, or eight years. The tax is simple to pay online and is suitable for 14 years, after which there is an annual cost. The car's invoice price determines the tax amount; electric vehicles are eligible for lower rates.
The tax rates are broken down as follows:
Vehicle Price Range
Petrol Vehicles
Diesel Vehicles
Under ₹10 lakh
8%
10%
₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh
10%
12%
Above ₹20 lakh
12%
14%
Before applying for a BH number plate, consider how these road tax rates affect your overall vehicle costs. The biannual payment method may require regular budgeting but offers more flexibility than a one-time payment.
BH Number Plate: Steps to Pay Road Tax Online
Paying your road tax for a BH number plate online is a straightforward process that can save you time and effort. Here’s how you can do it efficiently:
Visit the Parivahan Website: Go to Parivahan's official website.
Select Your State: From the drop-down menu, choose Lakshadweep.
Enter Registration Number: Input your vehicle registration number and click proceed, verifying your identity using Aadhaar.
Access Online Services: Select “Online Services” to pay your taxes.
Enter Chassis Details: Enter the last five digits of your chassis number.
Select Tax Mode: Under Tax Details, choose Lump Sum Two Year as the tax mode. Vehicle details will be displayed.
Finalise Payment: Complete the payment process. Your new tax deadline will be updated once the payment is successful.
Advantages of the BH Number Plate
The BH (Bharat) number plate system offers several critical advantages for Lakshadweep vehicle owners, particularly those who frequently relocate due to work. Here are some notable benefits:
Interstate Movement
Allowing for smooth vehicle movement across states is one of the main advantages of the BH number plate. When transferring, owners can avoid the time-consuming re-registration process, which also saves paperwork. Those professionals with transferable occupations can significantly benefit from this capability.
Ease of Documentation
For car owners, the BH registration system streamlines the paperwork process. Those who move frequently can benefit from a more seamless experience with fewer prerequisites and a more straightforward application process, which guarantees they can manage their vehicles effectively without needless delays.
Flexibility in Road Tax
BH number plates offer the option to pay road tax in instalments, easing financial planning for vehicle owners. This system allows individuals to budget their expenses better, as they won’t have to pay a lump sum amount at once, making vehicle ownership more manageable.
Reduced Hassle with Re-registration
Owners of vehicles in the BH series have the convenience of state-specific re-registration. This benefit guarantees that they won't have to worry about the legalities of automobile registration each time they move, allowing them to concentrate on their personal or professional obligations.
Long-Term Registration Stability
The BH number plate system provides stability in vehicle registration for those who may change states multiple times. This stability means vehicle owners can maintain their registration status over the long term, contributing to a sense of permanence even while frequently relocating.
Disadvantages of the BH Number Plate
The Bharat series number plate was created in India to facilitate registration for drivers who frequently travel between states. However, the BH series plate from Lakshadweep has many shortcomings:
Increased Road Tax Rates
The increased annual vehicle tax rate linked to BH series number plates may seem expensive when contrasted with a one-time payment under standard state plates.
Greater Limited Acceptance in the Local Community
The unique tax structure and widespread use of the BH plate may generate confusion for local officials and individuals more used to standard Lakshadweep plates.
Complex Renewal Process
The BH series plate's necessity for yearly tax renewals can be inconvenient as compared to the state-based, lifelong tax payment plan.
Not Enough Local Advantages
Certain states provide their citizens with exclusive savings, exemptions, or benefits on specific car models. This could be a disadvantage in Lakshadweep since these might not cover BH number plates.
Hold-Ups in Administration
Due to the BH plate's recent introduction, administrative processes may be uneven or delayed, making it challenging to get or renew one in Lakshadweep.
BH Number Plate Renewal Process
In Lakshadweep, BH number plate renewal is a simple online procedure that guarantees ongoing adherence to road tax regulations. The BH series, which was created to make moving a car between states easier, needs road tax payments to be made every two years at first and then annually after 14 years. Here's how to renew a BH number plate:
Go to the Portal for Parivahan: To begin the BH number plate renewal process, go to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' official website (Parivahan Sewa).
Sign in and choose services: After selecting "Pay Your Tax" under "Online Services," pick "Renew Registration" from the list of choices.
Enter the vehicle's information: Enter the necessary car information, such as the chassis and registration numbers.
Verify Ownership: Enter the required paperwork and information about your car to prove that you are the owner.
Choose Renewal Duration: Select whether you would like your registration to be renewed annually or biannually, and you will get the duration for your BH number plate renewal.
Pay the Required Fees: Use your chosen payment option to pay the relevant road tax online for the BH registration renewal.
Get Confirmation: Your car registration will be updated in accordance with the confirmation you receive via email or SMS when your payment is completed about BH registration renewal.
And that is how BH registration renewal is done!
Conclusion
For car owners, especially those who move around a lot, the BH number plate system in Lakshadweep provides a contemporary option. The goal of streamlining the vehicle registration procedure is to make life easier for government workers and professionals who want a flexible and effective method of managing their automobiles. The BH number plate is a welcome addition to India's car registration scene, offering smooth interstate travel, simplicity in documentation, and fewer bothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common question and their answer related to BH series in Lakshadweep
Is the BH number plate mandatory for government employees in Lakshadweep?
No, the BH number plate is optional. Government employees can choose to apply for the BH series if they meet the eligibility criteria and prefer the convenience of interstate vehicle transfers.
How long does it take to get a BH number plate in Lakshadweep?
The process typically takes a few days, depending on the verification of documents and processing times at the RTO or through the online portal. You will receive a notification once your BH number plate is approved and ready for collection.
How do I convert my existing state registration to a BH series number plate?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a conversion through the Parivahan Portal or by visiting a Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Lakshadweep. You will need to submit the necessary documents, including proof of employment and vehicle details.
Can I sell my vehicle with a BH series number plate in Lakshadweep?
Yes, you can sell a vehicle with a BH number plate in Lakshadweep. However, if the buyer is not eligible for the BH series, they will need to re-register the vehicle under the local registration system.
Can I apply for a BH number plate if I move to Lakshadweep temporarily?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria, such as working for a company with offices in four or more states or being a government employee, you can apply for a BH series number plate even if your stay in Lakshadweep is temporary.
Is the BH number plate valid across all Union Territories, including Lakshadweep?
Yes, the BH series number plate is valid across all Indian states and Union Territories, allowing seamless vehicle movement without the need for re-registration.
