Bharat Series Number Plate: Eligibility, Benefits, Registration Process, and Latest Rules in India

The introduction of the Bharat Series number plate, popularly known as the BH number plate, has made vehicle ownership more convenient for people who frequently relocate across states. Introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the Bharat Series registration system aims to eliminate the hassle of re-registering vehicles every time an individual moves to another state due to work or transfers.

For professionals in transferable jobs, this initiative has brought greater flexibility and reduced paperwork. At Square Insurance, helping vehicle owners understand such regulations is just as important as ensuring they have the right motor insurance coverage. Here's a complete guide to Bharat Series number plates, including eligibility, benefits, registration charges, and the latest updates in 2026.

What Is a Bharat Series Number Plate?

The Bharat Series number plate is a special vehicle registration category introduced in 2021 to facilitate seamless interstate movement of private vehicles. Unlike traditional state-based registration numbers, BH series registration allows vehicle owners to use their vehicles across India without applying for a new registration when shifting to another state.

The registration format looks like this:

22 BH 1234 AB

Where:

·       22 represents the year of registration.

·       BH stands for Bharat Series.

·       1234 is the unique numeric code.

·       AB is the randomly generated alphabetic code.

For example, if a software engineer employed by a multinational company in Bengaluru gets transferred to Pune or Gurgaon, the vehicle can continue using the same BH number plate without undergoing fresh registration procedures.

Why Was the BH Series Introduced?

Before the Bharat Series, vehicle owners moving to another state for more than 12 months had to:

·       Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

·       Re-register the vehicle in the new state.

·       Pay road tax again.

·       Apply for a refund from the previous state.

This process often involved delays and complex paperwork.

The BH series simplifies interstate mobility and reduces administrative burden, especially for employees working in sectors with frequent transfers.

Who Is Eligible for a Bharat Series Number Plate?

Not every vehicle owner can apply for a BH series registration. The scheme is primarily designed for individuals with transferable jobs.

Eligible applicants include:

Central Government Employees

Employees working under central government departments and ministries are eligible.

State Government Employees

State government officials who are frequently transferred can also apply.

Defence Personnel

Members of the armed forces and defence establishments qualify under the scheme.

Public Sector Undertaking Employees

Employees of PSUs and autonomous bodies are covered.

Private Sector Employees

Individuals working in companies with offices in four or more states or union territories are eligible for BH registration.

For instance, employees working at companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Accenture, or HCL with nationwide operations can avail of the BH series facility.

Benefits of Bharat Series Number Plates

The BH series has gained popularity because of several advantages.

No Need for Re-registration

Vehicle owners can relocate to another state without changing their registration number.

Simplified Road Tax System

Instead of paying road tax for 15 years at once, BH series owners pay tax in two-year installments.

Reduced Paperwork

The process eliminates the need for obtaining NOCs and refund applications.

Convenient Interstate Mobility

Frequent transfers become stress-free, particularly for corporate employees and government officers.

Improved Vehicle Resale Value

Buyers across states find BH series vehicles easier to purchase because re-registration requirements are minimal.

Road Tax Structure for BH Number Plates

Unlike conventional registration where tax is paid for 15 years upfront, BH series vehicles follow a flexible tax structure.

Road tax is collected every two years until the vehicle reaches 14 years of age. After that, tax is paid annually.

Tax rates generally depend on:

·       Vehicle invoice value.

·       Fuel type.

·       Electric vehicle classification.

Electric vehicles receive concessions under the BH scheme, encouraging sustainable mobility.

How to Apply for a BH Number Plate?

Applying for a Bharat Series registration is straightforward.

Through the Vehicle Dealer

During vehicle purchase, dealers initiate the BH registration process through the VAHAN portal.

Documents Required

Applicants typically need:

·       Aadhaar card.

·       PAN card.

·       Address proof.

·       Employment certificate or Form 60.

·       Official identity card.

Online Verification

The Regional Transport Office verifies the details and issues the BH registration number.

Once approved, the vehicle receives a Bharat Series number plate.

Example of BH Number Plate Usage

Consider a bank officer posted in Delhi who receives a transfer to Hyderabad after three years. Under traditional registration, the individual would have needed fresh registration and additional road tax formalities.

With a BH number plate, the same vehicle can continue operating legally without any state-specific registration changes, saving both time and money.

Difference Between BH Series and Normal Number Plates

Several aspects differentiate BH registration from conventional registration.

Because of these advantages, BH series registrations have seen increasing adoption among professionals and government employees.

Important Things to Know Before Applying

Before opting for a BH number plate, consider the following:

·       The scheme is available only for eligible categories.

·       It applies to private non-transport vehicles.

·       Commercial vehicles are not covered.

·       Road tax payments must be renewed periodically.

·       Insurance requirements remain the same as standard vehicles.

Why Insurance Is Equally Important

A Bharat Series number plate makes interstate mobility easier, but financial protection remains essential regardless of where the vehicle travels. Accidents, theft, and unforeseen damages can occur anywhere, making comprehensive motor insurance a necessity.

Square Insurance helps vehicle owners compare policies from leading insurers, renew plans online, and secure extensive coverage tailored to their needs. Whether you own a regular vehicle or one registered under the BH series, having adequate insurance ensures complete peace of mind during every journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a BH number plate?

A Bharat Series number plate is a special registration category introduced to simplify interstate vehicle movement for eligible individuals.

Who can apply for a BH series registration?

Central government employees, state government officials, defence personnel, PSU employees, and private sector employees working in companies with offices in four or more states are eligible.

Is road tax different for BH series vehicles?

Yes. BH series vehicles pay road tax every two years instead of paying a lump sum amount for 15 years.

Can private company employees get a BH number plate?

Yes, provided the company has offices in at least four states or union territories.

Is insurance mandatory for BH series vehicles?

Yes. Like all vehicles in India, BH series vehicles must have valid motor insurance coverage.