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BH number plate: Benefits, application process & eligibility explained

    What is the BH series number plate?

    The BH series number plate, also known as the Bharat series number plate, is a new vehicle registration system introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in India. This system is designed to simplify the vehicle registration process and allow for nationwide vehicle ownership without requiring frequent re-registration when relocating to different states.

    The BH series registration number enables vehicle owners, especially those who frequently move due to job transfers, to avoid the hassle of transferring vehicle registration each time they relocate. This initiative is particularly beneficial for government employees, private sector employees, bank employees, and defense personnel who work in multiple states.

    BH number plate format

    The BH series number plate format follows a structured pattern that contains essential details about the vehicle:

    📌 Format: YY BH #### XX

    YY – Year of registration

    BH – Bharat Series Registration

    #### – Random 4-digit number

    XX – Randomly assigned alphabet (A to Z)

    This simplified vehicle registration process ensures easy identification and categorization of vehicles across the country.


    Eligibility for BH series number plates

    To apply for a BH series registration number, the vehicle's owner must meet certain eligibility criteria:

    ✅ Government employees (central or state government, defense, administrative services employees)

    ✅ Private sector employees whose companies have offices in more than four states or union territories

    ✅ Bank employees working in nationwide banks

    ✅ Employees of private companies with a valid work certificate and employment ID

    ✅ Only non-transport vehicle owners are eligible for BH series registration. Commercial vehicles are not included under this system.

    Benefits of BH series number plates

    The Bharat number plate offers several advantages to vehicle owners:

    🔹 Nationwide validity – No need for re-registration when relocating to another state

    🔹 Seamless vehicle movement – Simplifies the vehicle registration process

    🔹 Saves time and effort – Eliminates paperwork related to transferring vehicle registration

    🔹 Reduces administrative burden – Fewer interactions with regional transport offices (RTOs)

    🔹 Ideal for professionals who relocate frequently – Perfect for private company employees, bank employees, and administrative services personnel

    However, it is important to note that a BH series registered vehicle does not provide any special permissions for accessing restricted zones, and vehicle owners must comply with local regulations.

    BH number plate registration process

    The application process for the BH series number plate is straightforward and can be completed online or through an authorized automobile dealer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

    Log in to the MoRTH Vahan portal: Visit the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and log in to the Vahan portal.

    Select the ‘BH series’ option: Choose the ‘BH series’ option from the drop-down menu and proceed to the next step.

    Fill in Form 20 or Form 60: Depending on your eligibility, fill in either Form 20 or Form 60. Make sure to provide accurate and complete information.

    Submit required documents: Upload the required documents, including your official government ID, work certificate, and employment ID (if applicable).

    Pay the fee online: Pay the required fee online using a credit/debit card or net banking.

    Pay the MV tax online: Pay the motor vehicle tax online, which will be levied on the invoice price of your vehicle.

    Generate the BH series registration number plate: Once your application is approved, the Vahan portal will generate the BH series registration number plate in random order.

    By following these steps, vehicle owners can easily obtain their BH series number plate, ensuring a hassle-free vehicle registration process.

    Documents required for BH series registration:

    📝 PAN card

    📝 Aadhaar card

    📝 Official ID card (for government employees)

    📝 Form 60 (for private sector employees)

    📝 Employment ID and work certificate

    Road tax for BH series registered vehicles

    The motor vehicle tax for BH series vehicles is based on the invoice price of the vehicle:

     

    Vehicle Price RangeRoad Tax Rate
    Vehicles under ₹10 lakh8% road tax
    Vehicles ₹10 lakh - ₹20 lakh10% road tax
    Vehicles above ₹20 lakh12% road tax
    Diesel vehiclesAdditional 2% tax
    Electric vehicles2% tax reduction

    The road tax payments under the BH series system are biennial (every 2 years) instead of a one-time tax for 15 years.

    (Source: MoRTH Notification - morth.nic.in)

    Cost of the BH series number plate

    The BH registration cost includes the applicable motor vehicle tax, calculated based on the vehicle’s price. The invoice cost determines the BH number plate registration fee, and payments must be made during the registration process.

    Insurance for BH series registered vehicles

    🚗 Vehicle owners possessing a BH series number plate are required to obtain car insurance in accordance with the guidelines set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). The insurance premium is determined by various factors:

    ✅ Make and model of the vehicle

    ✅ Age of the vehicle

    ✅ Motor insurance type (third-party or comprehensive coverage)

    ✅ Add-ons like zero depreciation and roadside assistance

    BH series registration: Rules and regulations

    The BH series registration is governed by a set of rules and regulations that ensure a smooth and efficient process. Here are some key rules and regulations to keep in mind:

    Eligibility criteria: The BH series number plate is available to private sector employees, bank employees, and government officials who frequently relocate for work commitments.

    Vehicle type: The BH series number plate is applicable only to non-transport vehicles, including passenger cars and two-wheelers.

    Registration process: The registration process is online, and applicants can log in to the MoRTH Vahan portal to apply for the BH series number plate.

    Document requirements: Applicants must submit required documents, including their official government ID, work certificate, and employment ID (if applicable).

    Fees and taxes: Applicants must pay the required fee and motor vehicle tax online, which will be levied on the invoice price of their vehicle.

    Understanding these rules and regulations will help vehicle owners navigate the BH series registration process more effectively.

    Bharat number plate: Impact on motor insurance premiums

    The Bharat number plate has no direct impact on motor insurance premiums. However, it’s essential to note that the BH series number plate is a unique registration number that may affect the insurance premium calculation. Here’s how:

    No impact on insurance premium: The BH series number plate does not directly affect the insurance premium calculation.

    Vehicle’s value and location: The insurance premium is calculated based on the vehicle’s value, location, and other factors, not the registration number.

    Compliance with Motor Vehicles Act: Vehicle owners with BH series number plates must comply with the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, which may affect the insurance premium calculation.

    Insurance premium calculation: Insurance companies may consider the BH series number plate as a factor in calculating the premium, but it’s not a primary factor.

    In summary, the BH series number plate has no direct impact on motor insurance premiums, but it may be considered as a factor in calculating the premium. Vehicle owners should ensure they comply with all regulations to avoid any issues with their motor insurance.

    BH series: frequently asked questions

    1. What is the BH series number plate?

    The BH series number plate is a nationwide vehicle registration system introduced by the Government of India to simplify vehicle ownership across states.

    2. How to apply for a BH series number plate?

    Vehicle owners can apply through the Vahan portal or an authorized automobile dealer, submitting required documents and paying the applicable fees.

    3. What are the eligibility criteria for BH series number plates?

    Government employees, bank employees, administrative services employees, and private sector employees with offices in more than four states are eligible.

    4. What are the benefits of BH series number plates?

    They eliminate re-registration hassles, ensure nationwide validity, and simplify vehicle movement across India.

    5. How to convert an existing number plate to a BH series number plate?

    Existing vehicle owners can apply at their regional transport office (RTO) and submit necessary documents for conversion.

    Conclusion

    The BH series number plate is a game-changer for vehicle owners who relocate frequently, offering a seamless and standardized vehicle registration process. By eliminating the need for re-registration, reducing paperwork, and allowing nationwide validity, the Bharat series registration makes vehicle ownership more convenient in India.

    For private vehicle owners, bank employees, and government officials, the BH number plate registration simplifies mobility, making it easier to own and use vehicles across the country without bureaucratic hassles.

    ARN:Zuno/Blog/DM/BH number plate: Benefits, application process & eligibility explained/03/25/76

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    Disclaimer

    Zuno General Insurance Limited does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information contained in this blog. All insurance products and services are subject to the terms and conditions of the specific policy. Coverage and pricing may vary based on individual circumstances and eligibility.

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