The BH (Bharat) number plate system was introduced in India in 2021 to simplify vehicle registration for those frequently relocating between states. It removes the need for vehicle re-registration when moving across state lines, providing a seamless and hassle-free solution, especially for individuals in transferable jobs. In this blog, we'll cover the specifics of the BH number plate in Madhya Pradesh, including its benefits, who can apply, and how to register for it. 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 series number plate is designed to eliminate the re-registration process that vehicle owners traditionally face when moving from one state to another. In Madhya Pradesh, like other states, the BH number plate is a boon for people with jobs that require frequent transfers, such as government officials, defence personnel, and private-sector employees working across multiple states.
Introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in 2021.
It allows seamless interstate movement of vehicles without the need for re-registration.
BH number plates are valid across all states and union territories of India.
Two-year road tax payment cycles reduce the burden of a lump-sum payment.
BH Number Plate Format
The format of the BH number plate is uniform across all states, making it easily recognisable. The format consists of:
"YY BH #### XX"
YY: Last two digits of the year of registration (e.g., 23 for 2023).
BH: The Bharat series code.
####: A unique four-digit number assigned to the vehicle.
XX: Two random alphabetic characters.
BH Number Plate Eligibility
Not everyone is eligible for the BH number plate. The system is primarily aimed at people who frequently relocate for work. Here's a breakdown of eligibility:
Government Employee: You must be employed by the central or state government, which simplifies the BH registration process and ensures compliance with the Bharat series requirements for frequent relocations.
Defence Services Member: Members of the defence forces qualify due to their frequent relocations. This allows them to register vehicles under a system designed to ease interstate movement without re-registration.
Private-Sector Employee: If employed by a private-sector company with operations in at least four states or Union Territories, you are eligible for a BH series number plate, supporting professionals who travel frequently for work.
Employer Documentation: You must submit an official document from your employer verifying your employment status. This letter is essential for confirming your eligibility for the BH series registration.
How to Apply for a BH Number Plate
Applying for a BH series number plate in Madhya Pradesh can be done through the online portal or offline at a Regional Transport Office (RTO). The process is similar across India, and here's how you can apply:
Online Application Process: Via the Parivahan Portal of MoRTH
Visit your state's transportation department website or the MoRTH Vahan Portal.
Look for the application form to transfer ownership or register a new vehicle.
Provide the required details, such as the vehicle type, engine number, and chassis number.
Upload the necessary documents, including proof of identity, address verification, and auto insurance.
Pay the registration fees.
After your application is processed, you will receive a notification via email or SMS regarding your BH series number plate.
To affix the license plate to your vehicle, visit the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Offline Application Process: Getting in touch with a Dealer to Register
The dealer will fill out Form 20 on the Vahan Portal on your behalf.
Private-sector employees working for companies with offices in more than four states must submit Form 60, their employment ID and a work certificate.
State officials will verify your eligibility.
Choose "BH Series" from the application menu.
Submit the required documents, including a copy of your official ID or your Working Certificate (Form 60).
The RTO will approve the registration for the Bharat series.
Make online payments for any applicable fees or motor vehicle taxes.
BH Number Plate: Essential Documents
To apply for a BH number plate, you'll need the following documents:
Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, passport, PAN card, or driving license.
Address Proof: Utility bill, rental agreement, or voter ID.
Employment Proof: A certificate or letter from your employer stating that your company has offices in at least four states or union territories.
Vehicle Documents: Vehicle invoice, pollution control certificate (PUC), insurance papers, and proof of ownership.
Form 20: Application for vehicle registration.
Form 60: For private sector employees, this verifies employment details.
Road Tax for BH Series Vehicles
Road tax for private vehicles registered under the Bharat series is paid every two years or in multiples of two (e.g., four, six, or eight years). This tax can be conveniently paid online and is valid for 14 years. After that period, you will need to pay annually. The tax amount is based on the car's invoice price, with reduced rates applicable for electric vehicles.
Here's a summary of the tax rates.
Vehicle Price
Petrol Vehicles
Diesel Vehicles
Below ₹10 lakhs
8%
10%
Between ₹10 lakhs–₹20 lakhs
10%
12%
Above ₹20 lakhs
12%
14%
Before applying for a BH number plate, consider how these road tax rates impact your overall vehicle expenses. The biannual payment option may necessitate consistent budgeting, but it provides greater flexibility than a single lump-sum 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 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, navigate to Online Services.
Enter the last five digits of your chassis number.
Under Tax Details, choose "LumpSum Two Year" as the tax mode. This will display information about your vehicle.
Complete the payment, and your new tax deadline will be provided once the process is finalised.
Advantages of BH Number Plate
The BH number plate provides multiple advantages, especially for those frequently on the move for work. Some of the key benefits include:
Interstate Movement
One of the key advantages of the BH series number plate is its facilitation of smooth vehicle movement across states. Owners can avoid the tedious re-registration process when relocating, saving time and reducing paperwork. This feature is especially beneficial for professionals in transferrable jobs.
Ease of Documentation
The BH registration system streamlines the documentation process for vehicle owners. With fewer requirements and a more straightforward application procedure, those who relocate frequently can enjoy a more efficient experience, allowing them to manage their vehicles without unnecessary delays.
Flexibility in Road Tax
BH number plates provide the option to pay road tax in instalments, which can help vehicle owners with financial planning. This system enables individuals to budget their expenses more effectively, as they do not need to make a one-time lump sum payment, making vehicle ownership more manageable.
Reduced Hassle with Re-registration
Owners of vehicles under the BH series experience less hassle regarding state-specific re-registration. This benefit allows them to focus on their work or personal commitments without the stress of legal vehicle registration every time they move.
Long-Term Registration Stability
The BH number plate system offers long-term stability in vehicle registration for those who may frequently change states. This stability helps vehicle owners maintain their registration status over time, providing a sense of permanence even amidst constant relocation.
Disadvantages of the BH Number Plate
For car owners in Madhya Pradesh, particularly those who frequently relocate for work, the BH (Bharat) number plate system presents several challenges. Here are a few key disadvantages:
Registration Restrictions
The BH licence plate can only be used by government agents, bank employees, military personnel, and companies operating in many states or union territories. As a result, the BH series only benefits certain automobile owners.
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.
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.
BH Number Plate Renewal Process
Renewing BH registration in Madhya Pradesh involves a simple online process that ensures ongoing compliance with road tax requirements. The BH series, designed to facilitate more effortless vehicle movement across states, initially mandates that vehicle owners pay road tax every two years, transitioning to annual payments after 14 years. Here’s what to do for BH number plate renewal:
Visit the Parivahan Portal: Access the official portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Parivahan Sewa) to start the renewal process.
Login and Select Services: Click "Pay Your Tax" under Online Services, then choose Madhya Pradesh as your state.
Vehicle Details: Enter the last five digits of your chassis and your registration number. The portal will display your vehicle's details, including the road tax due.
Payment Process: Select the payment option for a two-year term (or multiples thereof, such as four or six years). Complete the payment; once confirmed, your tax details page will show the updated due date.
Confirmation and Record: The portal will update your renewal status and provide the next payment due date after processing the payment.
Conclusion
The BH number plate system in Madhya Pradesh is a practical solution for individuals with transferable jobs, offering flexibility in vehicle registration and tax payment. Whether you work in government, defence, or the private sector, this system ensures you can move across state borders without worrying about re-registration. By opting for the BH series number plate, you benefit from streamlined documentation, reduced road tax burdens, and the convenience of vehicle ownership wherever you go. For those eligible, the BH number plate is a valuable asset that can save time, effort, and money while ensuring hassle-free vehicle mobility throughout India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to BH series in Madhya Pradesh
Can I convert my existing state registration to a BH series in Madhya Pradesh?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can convert your existing state registration to a BH series in Madhya Pradesh 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 Madhya Pradesh?
Yes, you can sell a vehicle with a BH series number plate anywhere, including Madhya Pradesh. However, if the new owner does not qualify for the BH series, they must re-register the vehicle under Madhya Pradesh's state registration system.
What documents are required for BH number plate renewal?
For BH number plate renewal, you need to provide the vehicle's registration details. You may also need to submit employment-related documents if there are any changes in eligibility (e.g., changing jobs or states). Initially, Aadhaar verification is required during the online renewal process.
Are commercial vehicles eligible for BH registration renewal?
BH number plates are exclusively for private vehicles and do not apply to commercial or transport vehicles such as buses or trucks.
Are there any additional charges for diesel or electric vehicles during BH registration renewal?
Yes, diesel vehicles incur an additional 2% charge during the BH registration renewal, while electric vehicles enjoy a 2% discount on road tax.
Are electric vehicles eligible for the BH series number plate in Madhya Pradesh?
Electric vehicles can be registered under the BH series in Madhya Pradesh and benefit from lower road tax rates than petrol and diesel vehicles.
