BH series number plate explained
The Bharat Series (BH) was introduced to make interstate vehicle movement easier for eligible vehicle owners.
4 min read · 20 January 2026
Series
Bharat
Prefix
BH
Format
BH 00 XX 0000
Portable
Interstate
Plate format
Format: BH · · 00 · · XX · · 00 · 00
Eligibility
Key Differences from State RTO
What makes the BH series different
A regular registration starts with a state prefix (DL, MH, KA) and narrows into a local office code. A BH plate is designed around interstate portability rather than a single state allocation.
The format: BH 00 XX 0000 — where XX is a series letter assigned centrally.
Who is eligible
BH registration is available to Central/State Government employees in transferable posts, PSU employees, and private companies with operations in multiple states (minimum 10 vehicles).
The vehicle owner does not need to pay road tax separately in each state — this is the main practical advantage.
How to read a BH registration
The BH series should not be interpreted as a normal state code plus RTO office ladder. Treat it as a separate registration family.
The second block (00) is a sequential series number, not a state or district code.
Frequently asked questions
Is BH a state code?
No. BH refers to the Bharat Series and should be treated as a distinct registration family, not a conventional state prefix.
Can a private individual get BH registration?
Only if they meet eligibility criteria (e.g., employee of organization meeting the multi-state operation requirement).