The BH (Bharat) number plate is a vehicle registration system launched by the Indian government to assist individuals with transferable jobs, such as government employees, defence personnel, and certain private sector workers. This system allows seamless vehicle movement across states without re-registration when changing locations. It aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and enhance convenience for those who relocate frequently, simplifying vehicle ownership. 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 simplify interstate vehicle transfers. Previously, when individuals moved to a new state, they had to go through the lengthy process of re-registering their vehicles, which was often costly. The BH series makes this unnecessary, allowing vehicles to keep their registration no matter where the owner moves in India.
Introduced in 2021 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
Designed 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.
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, evaluating your eligibility and personal circumstances is essential to ensure that it fits your needs and lifestyle. The following criteria determine eligibility for a BH number plate in Tamil Nadu:
Government Employee: To qualify, you must be a government employee working for either the central or state government. This status helps facilitate a smooth BH registration process and ensures you meet the Bharat series requirements for frequent relocations.
Defence Services Member: Members of the defence forces are eligible for the BH number plate as they often relocate. This status allows them to register vehicles under a system that simplifies interstate movement without re-registration.
Private-Sector Employment: If you work for a private-sector company that operates in at least four states or Union Territories, you can apply for a BH number plate. This eligibility supports professionals who need to travel frequently 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: Ensure the vehicle you wish to register is in your name and adheres to all regulatory requirements. This ensures that your application is processed smoothly and meets the legal standards for vehicle registration.
Compliance with Regulations: All vehicles must comply with local laws, including having valid insurance, a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and any other relevant documentation. This compliance is essential to avoid issues during BH registration and 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. Here’s how:
Online Process: Via the Parivahan Portal of MoRTH
Visit the Portal: Access the MoRTH Vahan Portal or your state’s transportation department’s website.
Application Selection: Look for the application to transfer ownership or register for a new vehicle registration.
Enter Vehicle Details: Input the required information, such as the type of vehicle, engine number, and chassis number.
Upload Necessary Documents: Provide necessary documents, including evidence of identity, proof of address, and auto insurance.
Cover Registration Costs: Complete the payment for the registration fees.
Notification: Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email or SMS notification regarding your BH series number plate.
Plate Affixation: To have your license plate affixed to your car, visit the nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO).
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, 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 registering for a BH number plate, you 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 like an Aadhaar card, passport, or driver’s license to verify 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 private vehicles registered under the Bharat series or every two years in multiples of two, such as four, six, or eight years. The tax is easily payable online and is valid for 14 years, after which an annual fee applies. The invoice price of the car determines the tax amount; electric vehicles benefit from reduced rates.
Here’s a breakdown of the 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, 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 Tamil Nadu.
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 Tamil Nadu vehicle owners, particularly those who frequently relocate due to work. Here are some notable benefits:
Interstate Movement
One of the primary benefits of the BH number plate is that it allows for seamless vehicle movement across states. Owners do not need to go through the cumbersome re-registration process when relocating, which saves time and reduces paperwork. This feature is particularly advantageous for professionals with transferable jobs.
Ease of Documentation
The BH registration system simplifies the documentation process for vehicle owners. With fewer requirements and a more straightforward application procedure, those who frequently relocate can enjoy a smoother experience, ensuring they can manage their vehicles efficiently without unnecessary 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
Vehicle owners under the BH series benefit from the reduced hassle associated with state-specific re-registration. This advantage ensures that they can focus on their work or personal commitments without worrying about the legalities of vehicle registration every time they change their location.
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 BH (Bharat) number plate system presents significant challenges for Tamil Nadu drivers, particularly those who frequently relocate for work. The following are some major drawbacks:
Exclusive criteria
Government officials, bank employees, military personnel, and employees of commercial organisations with offices scattered throughout multiple states or union territories are the only people who can obtain the BH number plate. As a result, only sure car owners can benefit from the BH series.
Leaving Out Transport Cars
Since the BH number plate system is only available for passenger cars, buses, taxis, and lorries cannot use it. This restriction reduces the convenience of the BH number plates because it excludes many vehicle types, especially those used for public transport or goods delivery.
Unpredictably Numbers
The system randomly generates this four-digit number, the third unit of the BH series number plate. This means car owners can't choose a unique number for their vehicles. Because of this, some owners may have similar or identical numbers, making them less distinctive and more challenging to identify their cars.
Consistent Road Tax Payment
Road tax payments for the BH series are payable every two years. When they are already dealing with the primary challenges of relocation, some people could find this an additional obstacle. Managing these payments could be more complex and unpleasant than other moving-related tasks.
BH Number Plate Renewal Process
Renewing BH registration in Tamil Nadu 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 to do 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 “Renew Registration” from the options available.
Enter Vehicle Details: Input the required vehicle details, including the registration and chassis numbers.
Confirm Ownership: Provide proof of ownership by entering the necessary documents and details related to your vehicle.
Select Renewal Duration: Choose the duration you want to renew your registration (biannually or annually).
Pay the Required Fees: Proceed to pay the applicable road tax online using your preferred payment method.
Receive Confirmation: Upon successful payment, you’ll receive confirmation via email or SMS, and your vehicle registration will be updated accordingly.
Conclusion
The BH number plate system in Tamil Nadu offers a modern solution for vehicle owners, particularly those frequently changing their location. Simplifying the vehicle registration process aims to make life easier for professionals and government employees who need a flexible and efficient way to manage their vehicles. With the advantages of seamless interstate movement, ease of documentation, and reduced hassle, the BH number plate is a welcome addition to the vehicle registration landscape in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common question and their answer related to BH series in Tamil Nadu
Can I convert my existing state registration to a BH series in Tamil Nadu?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can convert your existing state registration to a BH series in Tamil Nadu 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 Tamil Nadu?
You can sell a vehicle with a BH series number plate anywhere, including Tamil Nadu. However, if the new owner is not eligible for the BH series, they must re-register the vehicle under Tamil Nadu’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 Tamil Nadu?
Yes, electric vehicles can be registered under the BH series in Tamil Nadu and benefit from lower road tax rates than petrol and diesel vehicles.
