BH Series Number Plate: Eligibility, Tax Benefits, and How to Apply Online

Buying a car in India is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with many legal and financial responsibilities. One of the most confusing parts for car buyers is vehicle registration and road tax, especially for people who frequently move from one state to another because of their job. To solve this long-standing issue, the Government of India introduced the BH Series number plate, also known as the Bharat Series number plate.
 

In this detailed guide, we explain the BH Series number plate in simple and humanized language. You will understand what it is, why it was introduced, who can apply for it, how road tax works, and how you can apply online without confusion. We will also naturally connect this topic with CarJD.com, a platform that helps car buyers understand not just cars, but the complete ownership experience.
 

What Is a BH Series Number Plate?
 

The BH Series number plate is a special type of vehicle registration that is valid across the entire country. Unlike regular number plates that are linked to a particular state, a BH number plate remains the same even if the vehicle owner shifts from one state to another. This makes it extremely useful for people who are transferred frequently due to their profession.

BH stands for “Bharat Series,” reflecting the idea of a single national registration system. A BH number plate usually looks like this: BH 22 AB 1234. The year of registration, random letters, and numbers together create a unique identity that is accepted throughout India.
 

Why the Government Introduced the BH Series
 

Before the BH Series was launched, vehicle owners who moved to another state had to go through the painful process of re-registering their vehicle. This involved paying road tax again, visiting multiple RTO offices, and waiting for refunds from the previous state. Many people avoided this process altogether, which often led to legal complications.
 

The BH Series was introduced to remove these problems and make life easier for working professionals. It supports the idea of seamless mobility and reduces unnecessary paperwork. For people with transferable jobs, the BH Series is not just a convenience—it is a major relief.
 

Eligibility for BH Series Number Plate
 

Not everyone is eligible for a BH Series number plate, and understanding eligibility is extremely important before applying. The scheme is mainly designed for people whose jobs require them to relocate frequently.

Government employees working under the Central Government, State Governments, and Defence services are eligible. Employees of Public Sector Undertakings also qualify. In the private sector, employees can apply only if their company has offices in at least four different states or Union Territories. In such cases, the employer must provide an official working certificate.
 

People who are self-employed, business owners without multi-state offices, or employees of small private companies generally do not qualify. Because eligibility rules are strict, it is always wise to confirm eligibility before finalizing vehicle registration.

Documents Required for BH Series Registration

Applying for a BH Series number plate requires basic identity and employment-related documents. These documents help the authorities verify that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria. Aadhaar and PAN cards are usually required for identity verification, along with proof of employment.

Private-sector employees must submit an official letter or Form 60 from their employer confirming multi-state presence. In most cases, car dealers assist buyers in uploading these documents during the registration process, making it relatively smooth.

Understanding Road Tax Under BH Series

One of the biggest differences between BH Series registration and regular registration is the way road tax is paid. In a normal registration, road tax is paid for fifteen years upfront. In the BH Series system, road tax is paid in smaller portions every two years.

The amount of tax depends on the ex-showroom price of the vehicle and the type of fuel it uses. Diesel vehicles attract slightly higher tax, while electric vehicles get a concession. This pay-as-you-use system reduces the initial financial burden on car buyers.

For people who move frequently, this system often makes financial sense. However, for those who plan to keep the car in one state for many years, the total tax paid over time may be similar to a regular registration. This is where ownership-cost comparisons, like those explained on CarJD.com, become very helpful.

How to Apply for a BH Series Number Plate Online

The BH Series registration process is largely online and handled through the government’s Vahan portal. After purchasing the vehicle, the buyer must inform the dealer about choosing BH registration. The dealer then uploads the necessary documents on the portal.

Once the documents are verified, the road tax for the first two years is paid online. After approval, the BH number is generated and the high-security number plate is issued. While the process is mostly digital, timelines can vary slightly depending on the state.

Renewal of BH Series Road Tax

Unlike regular vehicles where tax is paid once, BH Series owners must remember to pay road tax every two years. This payment is done online through the Vahan portal. Timely payment is important, as delays can lead to penalties.

Advantages of Choosing BH Series

The biggest advantage of the BH Series is freedom from re-registration when moving states. It saves time, effort, and unnecessary expenses. The staggered tax payment system also helps buyers manage finances better.

For professionals who value flexibility and mobility, the BH Series makes car ownership much simpler.

Limitations You Should Know About

Despite its benefits, the BH Series has some challenges. Implementation may vary across states, and not all dealers are well-versed with the process. Resale can also be slightly complex if the buyer is not eligible for BH registration.

Understanding these limitations beforehand helps avoid future disappointment. Platforms like CarJD.com regularly share real-world ownership insights that help buyers make informed decisions.

BH Series and Insurance

Car insurance for BH Series vehicles works the same way as regular vehicles. The registration type does not directly affect the insurance premium. However, insurers may ask for additional verification in some cases.

BH Series and Resale Considerations

Selling a BH Series vehicle is allowed, but the buyer must also be eligible for BH registration. If not, the vehicle must be converted to a state registration, which involves additional steps and tax adjustments.

This factor should be considered carefully before opting for a BH Series number plate.

Should You Choose BH Series or Regular Registration?

The answer depends entirely on your lifestyle. If your job requires frequent relocation, the BH Series is highly beneficial. If you plan to stay in one state long-term, a regular registration may be more straightforward.

Comparing ownership costs, convenience, and future plans is essential. Informative platforms like CarJD.com help buyers evaluate such decisions with clarity.

How CarJD.com Helps Car Buyers

Understanding government rules like BH Series registration is just one part of smart car ownership. From choosing the right car to understanding long-term costs and ownership experiences, CarJD.com helps buyers stay informed and confident throughout their car-buying journey.

FAQs: BH Series Number Plate

Q1 What is a BH Series number plate?
It is a Bharat Series vehicle registration that allows nationwide validity without re-registration.

Q2 Who is eligible for BH Series registration?
Government employees, defence personnel, PSU staff, and eligible private-sector employees.

Q3 Is BH Series cheaper than regular registration?
It can be cost-effective for frequent movers, but not always cheaper for long-term ownership.

Q4 How often is road tax paid under BH Series?
Road tax is paid every two years through the Vahan portal.

Q5 Does BH Series affect insurance?
No, insurance rules remain the same.

Final Thoughts

The BH Series number plate is a thoughtful initiative that simplifies vehicle ownership for a large section of working professionals in India. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it offers unmatched convenience for people with transferable jobs.

By understanding the rules clearly and staying informed through trusted sources like CarJD.com, car buyers can make confident decisions that save time, money, and stress. Informed ownership always leads to a better driving experience.