ALL ABOUT THE NEW BHARAT SERIES NUMBER PLATE

The Bharat Series (BH-series) number plate is a standardized vehicle registration system introduced by the Government of India in 2021 to facilitate vehicle movement across states. BH series vehicle registrations aims to simplify the process for vehicle owners who often need to relocate to different states. Introduction of Bharat series number registration eliminated the need for re-registration and provided a uniform system for vehicle identification nationwide.

When Was Bharat Series Registration Introduced in India?

The Bharat series number plates were first issued on the 28th of August 2021. The registration for the new number plates started on the 15th of September, 2021. By the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, vehicle owners had to transfer the registration of their vehicle within 12 months of transfer to the new state.

BH Series Number Plate Format

The BH-series number plates follow a specific format for easy identification and uniformity. The format for the Bh series number plate starts with vehicle registration year in YY format, followed by “BH” which indicates the “BHARAT” series registration. BH is followed by a 4 digit unique number, and single or double random alphabets.  

  Step-by-Step Guide for BH Series Number Plate for Two-Wheelers

While you already mentioned general steps, a separate section for two-wheelers can target bike and scooter owners. Include screenshots or flow diagrams if possible.

• Year of Registration: 21
• Bharat Series Code: BH
• Serial Number: A unique alphanumeric code assigned to vehicle (e.g., 1234)
• Single or Two Alphabet: Random alphabets assigned to vehicle 

21BH Number Plate Meaning

21BH is vehicle registration number series under Bharat series registration where "21" signifies year of vehicle registration "2021" and "BH" represents Bharat Series.

22BH Number Plate Meaning

Similarly 22BH is vehicle registration number series under Bharat series registration where "22" signifies registration year of vehicle i.e. 2022 and "BH" represents Bharat Series.

23BH Number Plate Meaning

Vehicle number plates starting with 23BH are registered under "BHARAT" series where 23 denotes the vehicle registration year of 2023 and  "BH" indicates Bharat series registration.

Features of BH Series Number Plates

1. BH-series plates offer a consistent valid format across all states of India.
2. Simplifies interstate vehicle transfer process without needing re-registration.
3. Bh Series number plates incorporate advanced features like holograms and barcodes to prevent counterfeiting.
4. Unique registration number of vehicle facilitates easier tracking and identification of vehicles across the country.

Benefits of Bharat Series Number Plates

Restrict Illegal Registrations: Centralized registration reduces illegal registration transfers and fake number plates.

Ease of Relocation: The Bharat Series registration makes it easier to transfer and renew vehicle insurance when moving to a different state, as it removes the need to re-register the vehicle.

Reduce Frauds: Unique registration numbers across the country makes it easy for authorities to track and verify vehicle information, helping with law enforcement.

Reduce Paperwork: Elimination of re-registration on state to state transfer reduces administrative process paperwork.

Cost Saving: Reduced road tax payment and No need of NOC and re-registration provides cost saving advantages to BH series registered vehicle owners.

You May Also Like to Read: OVERVIEW ABOUT HSRP NUMBER PLATES IN MAHARASHTRA

  Comparison Between BH Series and State-Specific Registration

Several buyers get confused when they are looking for vehicle registration in India, while staying across different states. This following represents the comparison between BH series and state-specific RTO registration, which gives buyers clarity about the registration process of vehicles:

Feature	BH Series	State Registration
Validity Across States	Yes, it is valid all over India.	It is restricted to the state where the vehicle is registered.
Re-registration Required on Relocation	Not required, even if buyers take transfer to another state.	Mandatory for buyers who move permanently to a different state.
Unique Vehicle Code	Comes with a uniform alphanumeric code applicable nationwide.	Varies depending on the registration format of the state.
Hologram & Barcode Security	These vehicles are equipped with advanced holograms and barcodes for added security.	Not mandatory in every state. It completely depends on local RTO rules.
Suitable For	Ideal for both personal and commercial vehicles owned by government or private sector employees who relocate often.	Suitable for all vehicle owners who stay within the same state.

This comparison shows that while BH series registration offers convenience and flexibility for people who frequently move across states. On the other hand, state-specific registration remains a standard option for those who reside permanently within a state.

Eligibility for BH Series Number Registration

• Applicants must be central, state government, PSU or bank employees. Defense personnel, administrative service employees can also apply for BH series registration.  
• Private sector employees are also eligible for Bharat series number plate application but they must have their offices in more than four states or UTs.
• Applicants must have permanent address proof of India.
• BH Series registration is available to only personal and commercial vehicles only and not transport vehicles like bus, taxi, and trucks.
• New as well as old vehicles are eligible for BH series number application.
• For application of old vehicles, it must be under its current registration validity, and the conversion to a BH series plate must be done before the re-registration period expires.
• Applicant vehicles must be cleared with road tax.

Vehicle must possess valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate

  State-wise Application Process & Fees 

The process and charges of applying for BH Series number plate can vary from one state to another. Below table showcases a quick state-wise guide that helps buyers understand where to apply, expected fees, and any additional requirements they need to take note of:

State	Application Portal	BH Series Fees	Additional Notes
Maharashtra	MahaRTO	8–12%	A valid PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate is mandatory at the time of application.
Delhi	DLRTO	8–12%	Form 60 is required for employees from the private sector.
Karnataka	KA RTO	8–12%	Buyers need to ensure that their employer is listed under the eligible organizations before applying.

If you're eligible, getting a Bharat Series (BH) number plate is a smooth and mostly online process. It’s designed to make vehicle registration easier for professionals who move across states due to work. Whether you're buying a new car or already have one, this section will walk you through how to get BH number plate registered hassle-free.

Online Process for BH Number Plate Application

(Option A – Self-Application):

• Step 1: Visit the MoRTH VAHAN portal  or seek assistance from an authorized automobile dealer to complete the BH Series registration process smoothly.

• Step 2: Go to the Online Services section on the website, and choose “Vehicle-Related Services” from the menuto get started.
  
  
• Step 3: Select your State.

• Step 4: Enter your state-specific vehicle registration number and select RTO. 

• Step 5: Fill Form 20: Enter all mandatory details such as:
  
  
• Personal information (name, address, etc.)
   
• Vehicle details (make, model, chassis number, engine number)
   
• Dealer details (name, address, sale certificate details)
   
• Step 6: Upload Required Documents: Attach scanned copies of:
  
  
• Form 21 (Sale Certificate)
   
• Form 22 (Roadworthiness Certificate)
   
• Valid insurance, proof of address, and ID
   
• Step 7: Pay the Registration Fee: Make the payment online as per the fee applicable. 
• Step 8: Book an Appointment (if required): In some RTOs, you to book an online appointment for document verification and certificate issuance.
• Step 9: Submit the Application: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) will review your application and, once approved, you need to pay the applicable motor vehicle tax or fee online. Under the BH Series system, this registration is valid for 2 years.

(Option B – Dealer Assistance):

If you opt for dealer assistance, the dealer will complete Form 20 and handle the process via the VAHAN portal on your behalf. This includes document uploads, fee payments, and appointment scheduling.

Offline Process for BH Number Plate Application

• Step 1: Inform the dealer that you are eligible for BH series registration while purchasing a new car. Provide all necessary documents. 
• Step 2: The dealer will submit the BH registration request online through the VAHAN portal on your behalf. 
• Step 3: The local Regional Transport Office (RTO) will verify the submitted documents and process the application. 
• Step 4: After approval, the BH series new registration number is generated, and the number plate is issued accordingly.

Note: You can also seek assistance from your nearby dealer, the dealer fills out Form 20 on the Vahan portal on your behalf.

Applicants from the private sector employees with offices in more than four states or UTs must submit Form 60 and provide their employment ID with a work certificate.

Documents Required for BH Series Vehicle Number Plate Registration

• Vehicle Registration Certificate
• Road Tax Receipt
• Valid PUC Certificate
• Identity Proof
• Address Proof
• Employment Proof
• Form 60

Common Mistakes While Applying for BH Series Registration

While applying for a BH Series registration buyers can commit few mistakes. These are few important points that help them to apply for the applying process smoothly:

·       Submitting incorrect employment proof

• Forgetting Form 60 for private sector employees
• Uploading expired PUC certificate
• Not checking vehicle tax clearance
• Failing to verify vehicle details on VAHAN portal

Benefits of BH Series Number Plate Beyond Vehicle Registration

• Supports easier vehicle resale
• Offers insurance portability
• Ensures government compliance and prevents buyers from paying penalties
• Lowers the risks of vehicle frauds

Advantages of BH Series (BH) Number Plate

The Bharat Series (BH) number plate offers a range of benefits to vehicle owners who frequently move across different states:

No Re-Registration Required Across States

The BH Series number plate makes easier for buyers to resale vehicles. It helps them carry forward the vehicle insurance across different states, keeps them compliant with government rules, and prevents fraud by providing a unique ID.

Simplified Road Tax Payment

With BH Series registration, buyers mostly pay tax every 2 years instead of a 15-year lump sum. This payment structure makes it more affordable and flexible for those who upgrade or sell vehicles frequently.

Ideal for Jobs with Frequent Relocation

BH Series registration is ideal for professionals who relocate often, ensuring hassle-free interstate transfers and full legal compliance across India.

Nationwide Validity

With a BH Series number plate, individuals’ vehicles remain valid across India. This further enables users drive freely without local registration, paperwork, or any additional extra costs.

Online Application & Transparency

The BH Series makes the registration process fast and hassle-free. This enables buyers complete applications and tax payments online with minimal RTO visits.

Disadvantages of BH Series (BH) Number Plate

While BH Series offers significant benefits, it also possesses limitations which are as follows:

Limited Eligibility

Only government employees or private staff in companies across 4 different states or more can apply for the BH (Bharat) Series, with proof of employment required.

Not Available for Everyone

Self-employed individuals, freelancers, or employees in single-state companies aren’t eligible for BH Series registration, which is meant for frequent movers.

FAQs on Bharat Series Vehicle Number Plates

1. Can I Get BH Number Plate for an Old Vehicle? 

Yes, both new and old vehicles meeting registration guidelines are eligible to apply for BH registration number plates.

2. Is BH Series Number Registration Available for Two-Wheelers?

Yes, BH-series registration is available for two-wheelers, including motorcycles and scooters.

3. Can I Transfer My BH-Series Registered Vehicle to Another State?

Yes, with BH series registration you can relocate with your vehicle to another state without need of registration transfer.

4. What Kind of Vehicles Can Apply for a BH Series Number Registration?

As of now BH number plates registration is limited to personal and commercial vehicles only, and can't be applicable for transport vehicles like bus, taxi, trucks.

5. Does Bharat Series Number Vehicles Have to Follow Different Traffic Rules?

No, vehicles with BH series number plates follow a uniform set of traffic rules and regulations across all states, differing from state-specific RTO rules.

6. How Does the Bharat Series Number Plate System Affect Insurance Policies?

The Bharat series number plate system does not directly affect motor insurance policies, but it simplifies the process of updating vehicle details with insurance providers when moving across Indian states.

7. Can I get a BH series number plate for my electric vehicle?

Yes, you can get BH Series registration for your purchases EV. This further helps you lower road tax and supports for eco-friendly mobility.

8. Does BH series number plate reduce road tax?

Yes, a BH Series helps reduce lower road tax. You can pay in 2-year installments instead of a 15-year lump sum, which saves money for frequent movers.

9. How long does BH series registration take?

BH Series registration usually takes 3–7 days, with online VAHAN submissions processing faster when all documents are correctly uploaded.

10. Can I cancel BH series registration and go back to state-specific registration?

Yes, you can switch a BH Series registration back to a state-specific one by applying at the local RTO and paying the applicable road tax.

Last Modified By - 09/10/2025