BH Series Vehicle Insurance: Are You Covered Across States? Expert Clears All Doubts

The BH series number system, also known as the Bharat series number plate, is a vehicle registration system introduced in India in August 2021. It offers several benefits, especially for individuals who frequently move between states. Currently, the BH series registration is available for private non-transport vehicles, including cars, two-wheelers and private electric vehicles.

Key features:

• Uniform registration across India: Unlike traditional state-specific registration plates, a BH number plate allows you to keep the same registration even if you move to another state, eliminating the need for re-registration.
• Simplified process: Applying for a BH number plate is generally easier than the traditional process, often involving online applications and fewer document requirements.
• Reduced costs: By avoiding re-registrations, you can save on taxes and other fees associated with the process.
• Easier insurance portability: Your car insurance remains valid throughout the country, eliminating the need to change it based on your location.

Nitin Kumar, head, motor insurance, Policybazaar.com shared insights about the BH series number series and insurance queries. Edited Excerpts;

• Does having a BH series number plate affect car insurance premiums? Are there any discounts or additional charges?

Having a BH series number plate does not affect car insurance premiums. There are no discounts or additional charges associated with this type of number plate. You can compare different car insurance plans online to find the most suitable one for your needs.

• How does claiming insurance work with a BH series number plate if one is in a different state when the accident happens?

The claiming process for insurance with a BH series number plate, even if the accident occurs in a different state, operates similarly to any non-BH series car insurance. The location of the accident does not affect the claim process. Therefore, regardless of where the accident happens, as long as you have a valid insurance policy covering your BH series vehicle, you can proceed with the claim by the standard procedures outlined in your policy.

• Can someone transfer an existing car insurance policy to a BH series registration, or need to purchase a new one?

BH series registration is available only when you are buying a new car and accordingly, the insurance is purchased. Upon registration of the car, the customer receives their BH registration number which then gets endorsed in the insurance policy. As a customer, you have complete autonomy to choose where you purchase your car insurance from. By exploring different insurance aggregator websites or direct insurance websites, you can find the best premium options. It’s important to note that the dealer cannot force you to buy from them, and you have the right to make an informed decision.

• Does someone need to update their car insurance policy every time she moves to a new state with my BH series vehicle?

It is not necessary to update your car insurance policy every time you move to a new state with a BH series vehicle. Your existing insurance policy will remain valid even if you relocate to a different city. Owning a BH series vehicle frees the vehicle owner from the re-registration process when they shift from one state/union territory to another which will further eliminate the need for policy updates. When it’s time for renewal, you can easily search for motor insurance for your BH series car online. Just enter your BH series car number and select the make, model, variant, and registration year to complete the process. This streamlined approach saves time and effort, making the entire renewal process hassle-free.

• What happens to the No Claim Bonus if she transfers car insurance to a BH series registration?

If a customer changes his/her old car’s registration number to a BH series registration number after payment of requisite taxes, the customer can apply for a change of registration number in their insurance policy, the existing policy will get endorsed with the new BH registration number and the NCB in the existing policy will remain intact.

• Can she still use a preferred insurance company if she gets a BH series number plate?

You can purchase insurance for your BH series car from any insurer of your choice. You can conduct a thorough search online and compare the premiums and benefits offered by different insurance providers. This will enable you to select a policy that is most suitable for your needs and budget. By comparing different options, you can also ensure that you get the best coverage and value for your money.

• Are there any special insurance products available for vehicles with BH series number plates?

The insurance product offering for regular registration number plates and BH series registration number plates are the same and there is no difference in the offering. All add-ons like Zero Depreciation, Engine protector, consumables cover, roadside assistance, key & lock cover, etc. which are available for regular registration numbers are available for BH number plates as well.

Why was the Bharat (BH) Series Launched?

BH series has been implemented to promote ease of transfer of vehicles owned by employees of central, state governments, PSU and private sector companies having offices in 4 or more states.

Station relocation occurs with both government as well as private sector employees and such movements create a sense of unease in the minds of such employees about obtaining the NOC from the present state, assignment of new registration mark in the new state and application for refund of taxes from the previous state on transfer from one state to another state.

One registration mark has been made valid throughout the country. The owner of the vehicle registered under the BH series is required to pay vehicle taxes every two years or in multiples of it, to the state where it is located during that period, at 25% higher than the uniform rate as notified.

To facilitate the seamless transfer of such vehicles, the BH series is helpful not only to citizens but also in reducing the burden of RTOs that deal with such vehicle transfers.