BH Number Plate in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is home to a vast population of professionals who frequently relocate for work, especially in cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai. For those who often move between states, vehicle re-registration can be a hectic process. The BH (Bharat) number plate eliminates this by providing a single, nationwide registration that remains valid across all Indian states. Keep reading to learn about the BH number plate in Tamil Nadu, its eligibility criteria, and the application process.

What is BH Registration in Tamil Nadu?

BH registration, introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) in 2021, allows vehicles to carry a single registration number that is valid across all states. The system works optimally for professionals who have to change work locations. A BH number plate in Tamil Nadu also allows car owners to pay road tax through a two-year system rather than the standard upfront payment of 15 years.

Why Apply for a BH Series Number Plate in Tamil Nadu?

A BH number plate in Tamil Nadu has several benefits that make it an ideal choice for many eligible candidates: 

• No Re-Registration Hassles: If you move out of Tamil Nadu, you don’t need to apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or re-register your vehicle in the new state.
• Flexible Road Tax Structure: The BH plate allows owners to make flexible road tax payments over two-year periods, thus reducing their financial obligations.
• Ideal for Frequent Relocations: The system provides an ideal option for government employees, defence forces members, PSU workers, and private sector employees who need to change their residence frequently throughout the year.
• Smooth Interstate Travel: You can drive freely across the country without having to worry about legal problems, fines, or any state-specific registration requirements.

BH Series Number Plate Format in Tamil Nadu

The BH number plate follows a standardised format across India, which makes it easy to identify. The format has four key components:

• YY: The last two digits of the year in which the registration was issued.
• BH: This is a fixed code for Bharat series plates, and it replaces state codes like TN for Tamil Nadu.
• ####: A unique four-digit registration number that is assigned to the vehicle.
• XX: Random letters from A to Z.

For example, a BH-registered vehicle in Tamil Nadu may have a number plate like 23 BH 4567 AB, where:

• “23” represents the registration year (2023).
• “BH” stands for the Bharat series.
• “4567” is the unique vehicle number.
• “AB” is a random letter set. 

Features of BH Series Number Plate

The BH series number plate has many features which distinguish it from typical state-based license plates:

• Pan-India Validity:  A BH number plate maintains its validity across every state and union territory of India; therefore, re-registration is not needed.
• Black on White Design: The face design for BH private plate vehicles follows the standard format of a white background with black lettering.
• Tax Flexibility: Payment of road tax occurs through two-year cycles instead of one single payment covering 15 years.
• Digital Verification: The BH registration process is online, which reduces paperwork and ensures transparency.

Eligibility for BH Number Plate in Tamil Nadu

Not everyone can own a BH series number plate. You have to meet a specific criteria in order to be eligible:

• Government Employees: This includes central and state government employees, defence personnel, and PSU (Public Sector Undertaking) workers.
• Private Sector Employees: Individuals working in private companies with offices in at least four states or union territories.
• Defence and Paramilitary Forces: Personnel from the armed forces, CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces), and paramilitary units.
• MNC Employees: Those working for multinational corporations with registered offices in more than 4 states.

Documents Needed for BH Number Plate Application

To apply for a BH series number plate in Tamil Nadu, you need to submit the following documents:

• Employment ID proof (Government ID for public sector employees, company ID for private sector workers).
• Form 60 & Form 20 (Application forms for BH series registration).
• Address proof (Aadhaar card, passport, or utility bill).
• Vehicle invoice (For new car registration).
• Salary slip or work certificate (For private sector employees, confirming employment in an eligible organisation).

How to Apply for BH Registration in Tamil Nadu?

You can apply for a BH series number plate in Tamil Nadu either online through the Vahan portal or offline via an authorised dealership. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both methods:

Online Application Process (via Vahan Portal)

1. Visit the Vahan Portal: Go to the official Parivahan Sewa website.
2. Login/Register: Use your credentials to log in or create a new account.
3. Fill Form 20: Enter vehicle details and select “BH Series” under registration type.
4. Upload Documents: Submit required documents, including employment proof and address proof.
5. Pay Road Tax: Complete the online road tax payment for the first two years.
6. Submit Application: Once verified, the RTO will approve the BH registration, and the number plate will be issued.

Offline Application Process (via Dealer)

1. Visit an Authorised Dealer: Purchase a new vehicle from a showroom offering BH registration services.
2. Provide Required Documents: Submit Form 60, salary slip, and ID proof.
3. Dealer Initiates Application: The dealer applies for BH registration on your behalf through the Vahan portal.
4. Tax Payment & RTO Processing: Road tax is paid, and the RTO verifies the application.
5. Number Plate Issuance: After approval, the BH number plate is assigned to the vehicle.

BH Series Number Plate Price in Tamil Nadu

The BH number plate cost follows a standard tax system nationwide and depends on the ex-showroom vehicle price. Here is how the tax is calculated:

• Vehicles under Rs.10 lakh: 8% tax (Petrol), 10% tax (Diesel), 6% tax (Electric).
• Vehicles between Rs.10-20 lakh: 10% tax (Petrol), 12% tax (Diesel), 8% tax (Electric).
• Vehicles above Rs.20 lakh: 12% tax (Petrol), 14% tax (Diesel), 10% tax (Electric).

This tax is paid every two years instead of the usual one-time 15-year tax for standard registrations.

FAQ about BH Number Plate in Tamil Nadu