How to Get BH Number Plate

The BH number plate (Bharat Series) is a new vehicle registration system introduced in India to make interstate travel and ownership transfers easier. It has become especially useful for professionals who move across states frequently due to job postings or business opportunities. Unlike traditional number plates, which are tied to a single state, the BH series is valid nationwide, eliminating the hassle of re-registration every time you relocate. 

In this blog, we’ll explain what the BH number plate is, its benefits, eligibility criteria, step-by-step process to apply, documents required, costs involved, and its overall impact on both new and used car buyers.

Key Takeaways

• BH number plate allows seamless vehicle use across all Indian states without re-registration.
• Ideal for employees of central/state government, defense services, or private firms with offices in multiple states.
• Application can be done online through the MoRTH Vahan portal.
• BH registration comes with road tax benefits and convenience.
• Buyers can finance new or pre-owned cars with a used car loan.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to BH Number Plate
2. Why Was the BH Number Plate Introduced?
3. Who is Eligible for a BH Number Plate?
4. Step-by-Step Process to Apply
5. Documents Required for Application
6. Road Tax and Cost Structure
7. Benefits of BH Number Plate
8. Things to Keep in Mind
9. BH Number Plate for Used Cars
10. FAQs

Introduction to BH Number Plate

The BH number plate was introduced in August 2021 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Its full form is Bharat Series registration mark. Unlike regular number plates that are tied to a specific state, a BH plate is valid throughout India.

The BH series is one of the newest among the many types of number plates in India, each serving a unique purpose. This new format makes it easier for vehicle owners who relocate often due to work transfers, as they no longer need to re-register their car in every new state.

Why Was the BH Number Plate Introduced?

Earlier, when someone shifted to another state, they had to re-register their vehicle within 12 months, pay road tax again, and apply for a refund from the original state. This process was long and inconvenient.

The BH number plate simplifies this by offering:

• One-time registration valid pan-India.
• Flexibility for job relocations.
• Streamlined road tax payment structure.

This system reflects India’s move toward digitization and ease of mobility.

Who is Eligible for a BH Number Plate?

Not everyone can apply for a BH number plate. Currently, it is available to:

• Central and state government employees.
• Defense personnel.
• PSU employees.
• Employees of private companies with offices in at least four states or union territories.

The employer must provide an official ID or eligibility certificate for the applicant.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply

Here’s how to apply for a BH number plate:

1. Purchase of Vehicle: Buy your car from a dealership that is registered under the BH scheme.
2. Application Submission: Fill out Form 60 and submit along with employer eligibility proof.
3. Upload Documents: Log in to the MoRTH Vahan portal to upload documents like proof of employment, ID, and address.
4. Payment of Road Tax: Pay road tax online as per the BH system.
5. Allotment of Number: The RTO issues a BH series number in the fYY BH #### XX.ormat 

Example: 22 BH 4567 AA

Documents Required for Application

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Form 60 application.
• Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.).
• Employment certificate from government or private employer.
• Proof of address.
• Vehicle invoice.
• Road tax payment receipt.

Road Tax and Cost Structure

In the BH number plate system, road tax is paid in two-year blocks instead of a lump sum for 15 years.

• Vehicles costing under ₹10 lakh: 8% road tax.
• ₹10–20 lakh: 10% road tax.
• Above ₹20 lakh: 12% road tax.

For electric vehicles, the tax is 2% lower.

This flexible tax payment makes owning cars more affordable, especially for buyers looking at premium models like the most comfortable car in India.

Benefits of BH Number Plate

The BH number plate provides several advantages:

• No need for re-registration when shifting states.
• Digital process through Vahan portal.
• Shorter paperwork and less RTO hassle.
• Easy transfer of ownership.
• Flexible tax payment.

While the BH plate ensures convenience across states, some buyers also chase exclusivity by bidding for the most expensive number plate in India.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the BH system is convenient, keep these points in mind:

• Not available to all private individuals yet.
• Vehicles with BH numbers cannot be registered offline — only online via the portal.
• Road tax must be renewed every two years (instead of once for 15 years).
• If eligibility criteria no longer apply, the number can be converted into a regular state number.

BH Number Plate for Used Cars

The BH number plate isn’t limited to new cars. Even used cars can be transferred under this scheme if the buyer meets eligibility requirements.

When purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, ensure proper ownership transfer using the vehicle transfer form, and confirm the BH number details are updated in the Vahan system.

Financing such purchases is easy with a car loan, which helps spread costs over EMIs while enjoying the tax flexibility of BH registration.

FAQs

Can I apply for a BH number plate if I am self-employed?

Currently, no. Only salaried employees of government, defense, PSUs, or registered companies with offices in four states are eligible.

Can I convert my existing state number into a BH number plate?

No, this option is only available for new vehicle registrations or ownership transfers under the scheme.

Do all dealers provide BH registration?

No, only dealers authorized under the MoRTH BH scheme can issue applications. Always confirm with your dealer before purchase.

Can I sell a car with a BH number plate to someone in another state?

Yes, but the new buyer must also meet BH eligibility. If not, the car will need to be re-registered under the local RTO.

What happens if I stop working at a company with multiple-state offices?

Your BH number plate can be converted into a regular state registration at your current address.