BH Number Plate in India 2026: Features, Benefits, Eligibility, Road Tax & Insurance Impact

Introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Government of India, this special registration series aims to eliminate the hassle of re-registering vehicles every time an owner moves to a new state.

As we step into 2026, the BH series remains fully operational and is increasingly being adopted by eligible vehicle owners across the country. This article explains everything you need to know about the BH number plate in 2026, including its features, benefits, eligibility, road tax structure, application process, and its impact on car insurance and motor insurance.

What Is the BH Number Plate Series?

The BH (Bharat) Series Number Plate is a special vehicle registration introduced to allow seamless movement of private vehicles across Indian states without the need for re-registration. Unlike traditional number plates that display a state code (such as MH, DL, or KA), BH plates use the ‘BH’ code, signifying a pan-India registration.

This system is particularly beneficial for individuals whose jobs involve frequent transfers, as it removes the burden of changing registration numbers and claiming road tax refunds when moving between states.

Features of BH Series Number Plates

The key features of the Bharat Series Number Plate in 2026 include:

• A uniform registration format applicable across India
• Valid in all states and Union Territories
• Available only for non-transport (private) vehicles
• Eliminates the need for re-registration when relocating
• Road tax payable in blocks of two years, instead of a one-time lifetime tax
• Registration and tax payment handled digitally via the VAHAN portal

BH Number Plate Format

The format of a BH number plate remains unchanged in 2026:

YY BH #### XX

Where:

• YY – Year of first registration
• BH – Bharat Series code
• #### – Random number from 0000 to 9999
• XX – Alphabet code from AA to ZZ

For private vehicles, the numbers are displayed in black on a white background, just like standard registration plates.

Who Is Eligible for a BH Number Plate in 2026?

BH number plates are issued only to specific categories of vehicle owners who meet the eligibility criteria set by MoRTH:

• Defence personnel and armed forces members
• Central Government and State Government employees
• Employees of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) with offices in five or more states/UTs
• Private sector employees working in organisations that have offices in at least five states
• Private sector employees must submit a Working Certificate (Form 60) or an official employer document, which is verified digitally through the VAHAN system.

BH Series Road Tax Structure (2026)

Unlike traditional vehicle registration, where road tax is paid upfront for 15 years, BH series road tax is paid every two years (or in multiples of two).

Road Tax Rates Based on Invoice Value

Road tax under the BH series can be paid online for a maximum period of 14 years, after which it must be paid annually.

How to Apply for a BH Number Plate (Updated Process for 2026)

The BH registration process is now largely dealer-assisted and digital, making it easier for eligible buyers.

Step-by-Step BH Registration Process:

1. Purchase a new vehicle from an authorised dealer
2. The dealer fills Form 20 on the VAHAN portal
3. Select BH Series as the registration type
4. Submit eligibility documents (Form 60 / official ID)
5. RTO verifies and approves eligibility online
6. Pay the applicable road tax digitally
7. BH registration number is generated and issued

Physical visits to the RTO are minimal in most cases.

Benefits of BH Number Plate in 2026

Some of the key advantages of opting for a BH series number plate include:

• Hassle-free movement of vehicles across states
• No requirement for No Objection Certificate (NOC)
• Simplified ownership transfer process
• No need to reclaim road tax from previous states
• Ideal for professionals with transferable jobs
• Greater transparency through digital records

Limitations of BH Number Plates

Despite its advantages, the BH series has certain limitations:

• Not available to all private vehicle owners
• Applicable only to non-transport vehicles
• Eligibility strictly verified through employer documentation
• BH vehicles must be freshly registered again if sold to an ineligible buyer

Does a BH Number Plate Affect Car Insurance?

A common concern among vehicle owners is whether a BH number plate impacts car insurance or motor insurance premiums.

The answer is no.

Insurance providers do not differentiate between BH series and state-registered vehicles while calculating premiums. Whether your vehicle has a BH plate or a regular number plate, the cost of vehicle insurance depends on factors such as:

• Vehicle make and model
• Engine capacity and fuel type
• Vehicle age
• Insured Declared Value (IDV)
• Type of coverage chosen

Opting for a comprehensive car insurance policy is strongly recommended, as it provides protection against third-party liabilities as well as own-damage risks such as accidents, theft, fire, and natural calamities.

Importance of Vehicle Insurance for BH Registered Vehicles

Even with a BH number plate, having valid motor insurance is mandatory under Indian law. A comprehensive vehicle insurance policy ensures financial protection regardless of the state in which the vehicle is being driven.

BH registration simplifies mobility, while comprehensive car insurance safeguards your vehicle throughout India—making the combination especially beneficial for transferable professionals.