The BH (Bharat) series number plate is a game-changer for vehicle owners in India, especially for professionals who frequently relocate. Launched in September 2021, it eliminates the hassle of re-registration when moving to a different state. But is it the right choice for everyone? In this blog, we will dive deep into the advantages and disadvantages of the BH series number plate, tax structure, eligibility, and whether it's worth opting for.
What is the BH Series Number Plate?
The BH series number plate is a special vehicle registration introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to ease inter-state vehicle movement. Unlike traditional state-wise registrations, the BH series allows vehicle owners to freely use their vehicles across India without requiring a state transfer.
Format:
A typical BH series number plate looks like this: XX BH XX XXXX
- XX: Year of vehicle registration (e.g., 23 for 2023)
- BH: Denotes Bharat Series
- XX: Random alphabets
- XXXX: Random numbers
Advantages of the BH Series Number Plate
1. No Re-Registration Hassle
One of the biggest advantages is that owners do not need to re-register their vehicle when relocating to another state. Traditionally, vehicle owners had to apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC), re-register in the new state, and claim a road tax refund from the previous state— a cumbersome process. The BH series eliminates all these steps.
2. Flexible Road Tax Payment
Instead of paying a one-time road tax for 15 years, BH series owners pay it every two years. The tax rates are based on the ex-showroom price of the vehicle:
- For vehicles priced below ₹10 lakh, the tax rates are 8% for petrol vehicles, 10% for diesel vehicles, and 9% for hybrid vehicles.
- Vehicles priced between ₹10 lakh and ₹20 lakh have tax rates of 10% for petrol vehicles, 12% for diesel vehicles, and 11% for hybrid vehicles.
- For vehicles above ₹20 lakh, the tax rates are 12% for petrol vehicles, 14% for diesel vehicles, and 13% for hybrid vehicles.
This system provides flexibility and reduces the upfront cost of vehicle ownership.
3. Ideal for Transferable Jobs
Professionals in IT, private sector companies, banking, and government jobs often relocate. The BH series is perfect for individuals who shift between states frequently, as it removes the headache of dealing with RTOs for re-registration.
4. Higher Resale Value
BH series vehicles might fetch a higher resale value as they are easier to sell across India without state transfer concerns. Buyers prefer cars with hassle-free ownership.
5. Nationwide Validity
Once registered under the BH series, a vehicle can be driven anywhere in India without requiring a new registration or road tax adjustments.
Disadvantages of the BH Series Number Plate
1. Not Available for Everyone
- Only government employees and private sector employees whose company operates in 4 or more states are eligible.
- Self-employed individuals, business owners, and freelancers cannot apply.
2. Higher Long-Term Costs
Although tax is paid every two years, over a 15-year period, the cumulative tax amount could exceed the lump-sum tax paid under standard registration. This makes it costlier for long-term ownership.
3. Lack of Awareness & RTO Delays
Many Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) are still adapting to BH series registrations, leading to delays and lack of clarity. Some states may still resist full implementation.
4. Difficulties in Selling to Ineligible Buyers
If a vehicle with a BH number plate is sold to a buyer who does not meet the eligibility criteria, the buyer will have to re-register the vehicle under a standard state plate. This could reduce demand and make selling more complicated.
5. No Tax Refund Option
Unlike state-registered vehicles where a road tax refund can be claimed when moving to a new state, BH series owners do not get a tax refund if they decide to sell or deregister their vehicle before completing a 2-year tax cycle.
BH Series vs. Regular Number Plates: A Quick Comparison
The BH series number plate allows for seamless vehicle movement across India, whereas a regular number plate requires re-registration when moving states. Road tax for BH series vehicles is paid every two years, while regular number plates require a one-time payment for 15 years.
Eligibility for the BH series is limited to government employees and private sector employees with offices in multiple states, whereas regular number plates are available to all vehicle owners. Additionally, no tax refunds are available for BH series owners, unlike regular number plates, which allow for tax refunds when relocating.
Who Should Opt for the BH Series?
✔ Employees of MNCs, IT companies, and private firms with offices in multiple states.
✔ Government employees (defense, PSU, banking, railways, etc.).
✔ Frequent relocators looking for hassle-free registration.
❌ Not suitable for business owners, freelancers, or self-employed individuals.
❌ Not ideal for buyers planning to keep a vehicle for 15+ years due to higher tax costs.
Conclusion
The BH series number plate is a fantastic initiative for professionals who frequently relocate. It eliminates re-registration hassles and makes vehicle ownership more convenient. However, it comes with limitations like higher long-term costs, restricted eligibility, and resale complications. If you frequently move states and work in a company with pan-India presence, the BH series can be a great option. Otherwise, a traditional registration might be more cost-effective in the long run.
