Unveiling the Bharat Number Plate: What are the benefits, and how to apply for it?

In India, vehicle registration plates often hold a certain status.  While some prioritize fancy numbers, others encounter the hassle of re-registering their vehicles when moving to a different state.  The Bharat series number plate (BH series) offers a solution to this problem.

What is the Bharat Number Plate (BH Series)? 

Introduced in August 2021, the BH series plate eliminates the need to re-register your vehicle when relocating to a new state. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who frequently travel or transfer due to their profession.

For instance, imagine owning a car registered in Delhi (DL).  Upon moving to Mumbai, a standard registration would require re-registering the vehicle to MH within 12 months.  The BH series plate bypasses this process, allowing you to maintain your original registration even in a new state.

Who is Eligible for a Bharat Number Plate (BH Series)?

The BH series eligibility criteria target individuals likely to relocate for work:

• Government Employees: Central and state government employees.

• Defense Personnel: Members of the Indian Armed Forces.

• Bank Employees: Individuals employed by public and private sector banks.

• Administrative Service Employees: Those working in various administrative services across India.

• Private Sector Employees (with specific criteria): Employees of private companies with offices in four or more Indian states.

The rationale behind this eligibility lies in the frequent transfers and travel demands associated with these professions. Re-registering vehicles can be a time-consuming and tedious process, and the BH series aims to simplify this for eligible individuals.

Important Note: Commercial vehicles such as taxis, trucks, buses, and small cargo carriers are not eligible for BH series plates. While these vehicles might travel extensively, they typically operate within a specific state or region for extended periods.

How to Apply for a Bharat Number Plate (BH Series)

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a BH series plate through the Vahan online portal.  The process is relatively straightforward for new vehicles, as dealerships can handle the necessary forms, processing, and payments.

However, obtaining a BH series plate for an already registered vehicle requires a different approach.  Dealerships cannot assist in this scenario.  Here's what you need to do:

1. Form Submission: Fill out Form 27(A), specifically designed for applying for a BH series plate for an existing vehicle.

2. RTO Submission: Submit the completed form to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) for verification.

3. BH Series Application: Once your existing registration is verified, you can proceed with applying for the BH series number plate.

Key Facts About Bharat Number Plates (BH Series)

Here's a quick summary of important details to remember regarding BH series number plates:

• Road Tax Validity: The road tax paid for a BH series plate is valid for a period of 14 years.

• Tax Structure: The road tax structure for BH series plates is tiered:

  • 8% for cars priced below ₹10 lakh

  • 10% for cars priced between ₹10 lakh and ₹20 lakh

  • 12% for cars priced above ₹20 lakh

• New Car Purchase: If you plan to purchase a new car and want a BH series plate, inform the dealer at the time of purchase.

The BH series plate offers a convenient and time-saving solution for individuals who frequently relocate across states in India.  By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and key facts, you can determine if this option is suitable for your situation.

Conclusion

The Bharat number plate presents a convenient and efficient solution for individuals navigating interstate re-registration processes. By simplifying administrative procedures and catering to the needs of diverse professionals, the BH plate contributes to a more seamless and hassle-free vehicle registration experience across India.