Who is Eligible for a BH Number Plate in India? Complete Guide for 2026

Are you planning to apply for a Bharat series number plate in 2026? Then, understanding the BH number plate eligibility criteria is essential before starting the process.

Introduced by the Government of India in 2021, the eligibility criteria for these number plates are generally based on the owner’s employment. From central government employees to private-sector workers, there are rules that applicants must follow.

So, read on to get the complete details on the BH number plate eligibility, required documents, how to apply step by step, and the benefits.

Is the BH Number Plate Eligibility the Same Across Every Vehicle in 2026?

No, as of 2026, BH Number Plate eligibility is not the same for every vehicle in India. The criteria mostly depend on the owner’s employment and vehicle usage. Here are the key points you should know:

1. Applicable to Private Vehicles: BH registration is currently available only for non-transport private vehicles. Commercial vehicles, taxis, buses, and goods carriers are not eligible.

2. Employee-based Eligibility: The owner must be a government employee, defence personnel, bank employee, or private-sector employee with transferable jobs.

3. Applicable for Cars and Bikes: Both four-wheelers and two-wheelers can get a BH number plate if the owner meets the eligibility criteria.

4. Company Registration Matters: Even if the vehicle is eligible, the employer must provide valid working certificates and transfer-related documents.

5. Electric Vehicles Included: EVs can also receive BH registration and may even enjoy a 2% reduction in road tax across all Indian states.

6. Restrictions on Used Vehicles: If the owner sells their vehicle with a BH number plate to a non-eligible person, the buyer must convert it to a normal number plate in accordance with the state's rules.

7. State-wise Implementation May Vary: Although the BH Series is a central initiative, some Regional Transport Office (RTO) procedures and approvals differ slightly across states.

Also Read: How to Find Bike Insurance Policy Number With Registration Details

What is the Eligibility of a Government Employee for a BH Number Plate?

The BH number plate eligibility for government employees is based on the following criteria.

1. Employment Status: The applicant must be a permanent or long-term employee of a Central, State, or Public Sector Undertaking (PSU).

2. Proof Requirement: A working ID card is typically required to prove eligibility. Additionally, new vehicles must have a completed Form 20.

What is the BH Number Plate Eligibility for Defence Personnel?

For Defence Personnel, the BH series number plate eligibility criteria are based on the following conditions.

1. Occupation Type: Commissioned officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCO), and other ranks in the Indian Armed Forces, as well as Personnel in Defence (PSU) and central armed police forces, are eligible to apply.

2. Proof Requirement: These employees must have a valid defence ID card and an authorised official letter or service certificate issued by their employer.

What is the BH Number Plate Eligibility for Private Sector Employees?

Eligibility of Private sector and MNC employees for BH plate employees is determined by these criteria.

1. Office Presence: According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' guidelines, private-sector employees can apply for a BH number plate if their company operates in 4 or more Indian states.

2. Proof Requirement: To prove their employment, the applicants must have a work ID card and a mandatory declaration in Form 60 (Working Certificate). Moreover, like the government employees, they will have to submit the Form 20 if their vehicle is new.

Also Read: Transfer Vehicle Ownership to New Owner: A Complete Guide

What Process Eligible Applicants Must Follow for BH Number Plate Registration in 2026?

You can apply for a BH number plate through a vehicle dealer or directly via the Parivahan Sewa website. The online steps will follow:

Step 1: Select ‘Vehicle-related services’ under the online services section on the Parivahan Sewa website.

Step 2: Select your state from the drop-down menu, then log in or register on the portal.

Step 3: Upload scanned copies of the required documents as discussed above. 

Step 4: Check all the entered details carefully and pay the applicable registration fee.

Step 5: You will receive your BH registration number and updated Registration Certificate (RC) after the RTO verifies the data.

Note: If your vehicle is already registered, you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your RTO.

Whether you are getting the BH number plate for your car or bike, it is essential to purchase motor insurance to be legally compliant on the road.

If you are confused about which policy to choose, purchase a Private Car Package Policy or Two-Wheeler Package Policy from Bajaj General Insurance. With us, you can enjoy seamless protection, cashless garage support, and stress-free journeys wherever your career takes you.

What Benefits Eligible Employees Can Get from the BH Number Plate?

Now that you know who is eligible to apply for  BH number plate in 2026, have a look at the benefits the applicants get from it.

1. Seamless Interstate Movement: The BH number plate makes your nationwide mobility extremely smooth, without the hassle of re-registering.

2. Simplifies Tax Structure: With BH number plate eligibility, you can pay 15 years of road tax in 2-year instalments instead of paying it upfront.

3. Less Paperwork: Without the BH number plate, you must carry numerous documents every time you travel to a new state, such as the No Objection Certificate (NOC).

4. Ensures Easy Resale and Transfer: Due to the nationwide recognition of the BH number plate, you can sell or transfer your vehicle to eligible buyers across states.

Also Read: How to Apply for a Vehicle Registration Certificate?

Final Words

With the BH number plate eligibility guide, you can apply for this specialised number plate without any confusion. Although employees with transferable jobs are eligible to get this, you must also verify your state’s RTO rules to avoid registration rejection.

Additionally, do not forget to pair your BH number plate with a comprehensive motor insurance plan from a reliable company, such as Bajaj General Insurance. An adequate policy will provide coverage for third-party liability and vehicle damage, ensuring you hit the road with full confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of a BH number plate?

A BH (Bharat) series number plate follows the format YY BH #### XX. Here, the YY stands for the year, followed by the "BH" code, a unique 4-digit number, and two random alphabetical letters. For example, 26 BH 1234 AB.

Are car insurance premiums less for BH number plate eligible individuals?

No, BH number plates do not directly result in lower motor insurance premiums. In most cases, the motor insurance premiums are based on vehicle make, model, age, and Insured Declared Value (IDV), rather than the registration process.

How long is the BH number plate eligibility valid?

A BH number plate remains valid for 15 years, like standard vehicle registration. However, road tax is paid in instalments every 2 years, and the rules may vary slightly across states and transport authorities.

What is the cost of a BH number plate registration?

The cost of a BH number plate registration mostly depends on your vehicle’s invoice price and fuel type. In fact, road tax on these vehicles ranges from 8% to 12%, with an additional 2% charges applicable for diesel vehicles.

Can I apply for a BH number plate offline?

Yes, you can apply for a BH number plate offline with your authorised automobile dealer at the time of vehicle purchase, or by visiting your RTO. However, while going for an offline verification, do not forget to bring the required documents, including your identification (e.g., PAN card), employment (e.g., work ID), or address proof (e.g., utility bill).

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.