Activity Buses

Buying a used activity bus starts with route use, passenger count, CDL fit, and state activity-bus requirements.

  • Best fit: Schools, churches, nonprofits, camps, and youth programs running supervised activity trips.
  • Budget: Often $10,900-$85,000 used, with new Thomas, Blue Bird, or Collins units running higher.
  • Check: MFSAB classification, CDL requirements, insurance, service records, rust, and seating layout.
Need help choosing? Compare buyer fit, capacity, operating requirements, and inspection priorities after the listings. View the decision guide
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2026 International CE Activity Bus

46282

Introducing the 2026 IC Bus CE 44 Activity Bus—engineered for superior school transport, employee shuttles, and group mobility needs. With seating for 44 passengers, this fleet-ready bus is an ideal solution for public and private schools, summer camps, daycare centers, and organizations seeking safe, reliable group transportation. Built on a robust chassis with a proven Cummins B6.7 diesel engine paired with the smooth-shifting Allison 2500 transmission, the CE 44 delivers consistent performance and low total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleet operators.

IC Bus is renowned for its commitment to safety, durability, and innovation, making it a trusted choice for school and employee transport. The 2026 CE 44 continues this legacy, combining reliability with ease of maintenance for maximum uptime. Designed to meet the demands of daily routes and special events, this Activity Bus is the smart, versatile choice for operators who value dependability and long-term value.

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2020 Blue Bird AARE Activity Bus

45828

Experience fleet-ready performance and comfort with the 2020 Blue Bird AARE MFSAB, designed for school transport, employee shuttles, and group movement. With a robust Cummins L9 diesel engine and a 46-passenger capacity, this bus is engineered for efficient and reliable group travel, ensuring low TCO and maximum uptime for your operation. Air conditioning keeps riders comfortable on every journey, making it an excellent fit for schools, camps, fleet buyers, and organizations seeking dependable school transport solutions. The well-maintained chassis offers proven durability, supporting the needs of students, employees, and various groups in a range of environments.

Blue Bird is renowned for its commitment to safety, reliability, and innovation in group transportation. The AARE model upholds these high standards, making it a trusted choice for fleet operators and organizations prioritizing quality and value.

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2020 Ford Transit 250 Starcraft MFSAB

45684

Optimize your shuttle service and guest transport with the 2020 Ford Transit 250 Starcraft Shuttle Bus—an exceptional, fleet-ready solution for a wide range of short-haul needs. Designed for efficiency and comfort, this shuttle bus seats up to 14 passengers, making it ideal for airport transport, hotel guest shuttles, retirement communities, hospital systems, and more. With just 29,000 miles, operators can trust the robust performance of its 3.5L gas engine and smooth automatic transmission, ensuring reliable and fuel-efficient journeys for every ride.

The Starcraft body is synonymous with safety and practical design, offering peace of mind for passengers and operators alike. Ford’s legacy of durability and performance underpins this bus, providing long-term value and dependability for demanding daily use. Whether transporting tourists, community residents, employees, or students, the 2020 Ford Transit 250 Starcraft Shuttle Bus delivers a professional, comfortable, and versatile transport experience, tailored to elevate your fleet’s capabilities.

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Mileage 29000
Passengers 14
Year 2020

2016 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus

45388

Upgrade your fleet with the 2016 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus—engineered for outstanding reliability, comfort, and efficiency in school transport, employee commuting, camps, and more. Powered by a proven Cummins ISL diesel engine paired with an Allison 5-speed automatic transmission, this bus delivers fleet-ready performance that ensures dependable operation and a low total cost of ownership (TCO). A generous 76-inch interior height provides a spacious, comfortable environment for riders, while the robust air conditioning system keeps the entire cabin cool and pleasant, even on the hottest days. Seating 44 adults on newly upholstered grey vinyl bench seats, the bus is perfectly suited for students, staff, or work crews. Added conveniences like cruise control, AM/FM stereo with USB, and a fast idle feature create a superior driver and passenger experience.

Blue Bird stands out for its durable, reliable chassis and unwavering dedication to safety and passenger comfort. The All American series is a trusted choice for operators seeking long-term fleet value and minimal downtime.

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2013 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner Mvp Ef Activity Bus

45323

Enhance your transportation operations with the 2013 Thomas Saf-T-Liner MVP EF Activity Bus — the perfect solution for schools, camps, employee shuttles, and fleet buyers seeking reliability and efficiency. Engineered with a robust Cummins 6.7L ISB diesel engine and smooth automatic transmission, this fleet-ready vehicle provides dependable performance and low total cost of ownership (TCO) for long-term value. With a durable, reliable chassis and just 37,000 miles, this bus supports your operation through years of school transport, employee commuting, and day/summer camp needs.

Comfort and functionality are maximized with a spacious 77-inch interior height, seating for up to 36 passengers, and advanced storage options including a rear luggage area and underbelly storage boxes. A powerful AC system ensures a pleasant ride in all climates, while the AM/FM CD stereo keeps riders engaged. Thomas Built Buses is acclaimed for its commitment to safety, quality engineering, and innovation. With a strong legacy, the Thomas brand is trusted by fleet operators and school districts nationwide.

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2014 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner Hdx Activity Bus

45317

Deliver exceptional comfort and reliability with the 2014 Thomas Saf-T-Liner HDX Activity Bus, purpose-built for fleet-ready school transport and employee shuttle needs. This robust bus is powered by the renowned 8.3 Liter Cummins ISC diesel engine paired with a dependable 5-speed Allison automatic transmission, ensuring smooth operation and low total cost of ownership (TCO) for any fleet operator. With a spacious 77-inch interior height and seating for 44 adults on well-maintained gray bench seats, this bus offers both generous capacity and passenger comfort. A large ducted A/C system efficiently cools the entire passenger area, making it ideal for routes in warmer climates, while features like cruise control, AM/FM Stereo with CD, and fast idle enhance driving convenience and rider enjoyment.

Thomas Built Buses is recognized for its durable, reliable chassis and unwavering commitment to safety, making it a trusted choice for school districts and commercial fleet buyers. Rely on Thomas Built for longevity and performance in demanding school transport and shuttle applications.

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2015 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus

45312

The 2015 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus is designed to meet the needs of school transport, employee shuttling, and camp operations, offering a robust solution for organizations seeking fleet-ready reliability and low TCO. Powered by a dependable 6.7L Cummins ISB diesel engine paired with an Allison 5-speed automatic transmission, this bus ensures smooth and efficient operation for fleet buyers and school bus operators. With individual seating for 44 passengers, each equipped with retractable seatbelts, safety and comfort are prioritized for students, employees, and adult riders alike. Overhead parcel storage adds convenience for personal belongings, while driver amenities such as power mirrors, a PA system, and AM/FM radio enhance control and onboard communication. The All American's versatile design makes it ideal for public or private schools, day/summer camps, daycare centers, and export markets seeking a reliable chassis and proven longevity.

Blue Bird is renowned for building buses with exceptional durability and a strong commitment to passenger safety. The All American model exemplifies Blue Bird’s engineering excellence, delivering reliable performance and adaptability for a wide range of transport needs.

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2016 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus

45303

Discover unmatched reliability and fleet-ready performance with the 2016 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus. Engineered for school transport, employee shuttles, and camp routes, this versatile bus is equipped with a powerful Cummins ISL diesel engine and an Allison 5-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and dependable operation on every trip. With 71,000 miles, this bus is designed for outstanding longevity, ensuring a low total cost of ownership (TCO) and making it an excellent investment for public schools, private schools, and fleet operators seeking to maximize efficiency.

The spacious interior features seating for 44 adults on newly upholstered grey vinyl bench seats, complemented by a generous 76-inch interior height for enhanced comfort. A robust A/C system keeps passengers comfortable in any climate, while modern amenities such as cruise control, fast idle, and an AM/FM stereo with USB connectivity support both safety and satisfaction for students, employees, and crew members. Blue Bird is renowned for its commitment to durability and safety, building buses on a reliable chassis that fleet managers trust. The All American model remains a top choice for organizations prioritizing quality, efficiency, and dependable school transport.

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2021 Mercedes Benz Sprinter Glaval Shuttle Bus

45148

The 2021 Mercedes Benz Sprinter Glaval Shuttle Bus delivers exceptional reliability and comfort for all your shuttle service needs. With just 21,000 miles, this fleet-ready vehicle is purpose-built for transporting airplane travelers, hotel guests, community residents, retirees, and employees with ease. Its diesel engine and automatic transmission ensure smooth, efficient operation on every short-haul route, making it a perfect choice for airport transfers, hospitality groups, hospital systems, and retirement communities.

Designed for convenience, the Glaval Shuttle Bus body provides generous interior space and a smooth, quiet ride, prioritizing passenger comfort and easy ingress and egress. Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its advanced engineering and commitment to safety, offering peace of mind for operators and passengers alike. The Sprinter model is celebrated for its versatility, durability, and low-maintenance performance, making it a trusted favorite for professional shuttle fleets across the country.

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2026 Ford Transit Magellan MFSAB

44977

Elevate your team transport and group travel with the 2026 Ford Magellan MFSAB Activity Bus, designed for safety, comfort, and reliability. This durable and versatile bus seats up to 14 passengers, making it the perfect solution for private schools, churches, employee shuttles, sporting activities, and after-school programs. Engineered to deliver smooth performance with its robust 3.5L engine and just miles, the Magellan MFSAB offers peace of mind for every journey—whether transporting students, athletes, staff, or jobsite employees.

The Ford brand is renowned for its commitment to innovation and long-lasting quality. With the Magellan MFSAB, you can trust in proven engineering and exceptional support, ensuring your investment continues to serve your organization’s needs for years to come.

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2016 Ford T-350 Micro Bird ADA MFSAB

44854

Enhance your school transport or employee shuttle fleet with the 2016 Ford Transit 350 Micro Bird ADA Shuttle Bus, engineered for safety, comfort, and flexibility. Built on the reliable Ford Transit 350 HD chassis and powered by a fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V6 gas engine with automatic transmission, this bus delivers smooth performance and a low total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleet buyers. With perimeter seating for 14 passengers plus 3 folding seats accommodating 1 wheelchair position, this vehicle is a versatile choice for schools, camps, employee transport, and more. The interior features robust front and rear air conditioning and heating, ensuring a comfortable ride in any season, while the electric bi-fold entry door and emergency egress windows prioritize passenger safety and quick access. Wheelchair accessibility makes this bus ideal for inclusive transportation needs, supporting both student and adult riders. Collins buses are known for their dependable build quality and practical design, making them a top choice for organizations seeking a reliable chassis and fleet-ready solution. Girardin, as the make, represents a commitment to robust engineering and long-lasting performance in every vehicle.

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Mileage 53000
Passengers 14
Year 2016

2000 International 3800 Activity Bus

42543

Discover unmatched durability and versatile team transport with the 2000 International 3800 Activity Bus. Powered by the legendary DT 466E diesel engine and built on International’s robust chassis, this activity bus is engineered to deliver reliable service for private schools, churches, jobsite transport, CDL driving schools, sports teams, and military base operations. The spacious interior provides ample room for students, employees, athletes, and staff, ensuring comfortable and secure travel for every journey. Designed for efficiency and low total cost of ownership, this bus is an outstanding solution for organizations seeking value and long-lasting performance. Its versatile layout is ideal for daily school routes, after-school programs, team travel, agriculture worker shuttles, and more—making it a truly adaptable fleet asset.

International is a trusted brand recognized for building reliable chassis and delivering consistent performance under demanding conditions. The 3800 series is celebrated for its strong construction, making it a popular choice for fleet buyers worldwide.

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2016 International Ce300 Activity Bus

41857

Discover fleet-ready performance and unmatched reliability with the 2016 International CE300 21-Passenger Diesel Activity Bus. Engineered for organizations that demand durability and safety, this bus is equipped with a powerful 7.6L inline-6 diesel engine, automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive, making it ideal for daily school transport, employee shuttles, or camp duty. With km, it offers a low total cost of ownership (TCO) and long-term dependability on a robust, proven chassis. Every seat is equipped with seatbelts, ensuring passenger safety for students, adults, or jobsite teams. The interior features easy-to-clean grey vinyl, a Webasto heater for cold days, and an engine block heater for reliable starts in any weather. The manual passenger door and practical layout are perfect for quick boarding and efficient routes, supporting productivity for schools, daycare, construction, or agriculture operations.

International is known for building reliable, long-lasting buses trusted by fleets across North America. With its strong reputation in commercial vehicles, International delivers vehicles designed for safety, comfort, and consistent performance.

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2016 International Ce300 Activity Bus

41796

Discover reliable group transportation with the 2016 International Ce300 Activity Bus, engineered for durability and versatility to meet the needs of schools, churches, employee transport, and team travel. Seating up to 21 riders, including students, adults, athletes, and staff, this bus offers an ideal solution for safe and comfortable journeys. Equipped with a robust 8L diesel engine and smooth automatic transmission, it's designed for consistent performance in both daily and demanding environments. Safety is paramount, with individual seatbelts for every passenger, while the included Webasto and engine block heaters ensure comfort throughout all seasons—even the harshest winters. The Ce300’s proven design supports low total cost of ownership, making it a smart long-term investment for your organization. This durable activity bus is ready for jobsite transport, after-school programs, sporting events, and more, providing peace of mind trip after trip.

International is renowned for its durable chassis and trusted engineering, making it a favorite among fleet operators. The Ce300 stands out for its blend of performance, reliability, and ease of maintenance.

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2018 Chevrolet MFSAB

40663

The 2018 Chevrolet 14-P MFSAB with Trans Tech premium body and very low miles. Gasoline 6.0L Activity Bus is engineered for organizations that demand both durability and versatility in their team transport solutions. Boasting a robust GMC 323 engine and smooth automatic transmission by General Motors Corp., this bus is built to handle daily routes for private schools, churches, employee transport, and more. With a sturdy GVW, it is ideally suited for safely carrying students, adults, staff, athletes, and jobsite employees, making it a reliable choice for after school activities, sporting events, and military base transport.

GMC is renowned for its commitment to quality and dependability, ensuring each bus delivers long-lasting value. The 2018 GMC models are recognized for strong performance and low-maintenance operation, making them a preferred choice for group and team transport needs.

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Mileage 20000
Passengers 14
Year 2018

2020 International 3000Ic Shuttle Bus Activity Bus

40337

Discover dependable group transportation with this 2020 International 3000IC Shuttle Bus, designed to provide reliable transport for up to 24 passengers. With miles, this robust vehicle features a powerful V8 6.7L diesel engine, ensuring strong performance and efficiency for daily routes or special events. The wheelchair accessibility feature makes it ideal for inclusive passenger needs, while the spacious interior in a clean gray finish enhances comfort for everyone on board. The striking white exterior exudes professionalism, making this bus a great addition to any fleet or organization seeking a trustworthy people mover.

International is renowned for producing durable and well-built commercial vehicles, making this bus a smart investment for long-term fleet reliability. With the trusted International name, you can count on quality engineering and proven performance in every mile.

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Mileage 44000
Passengers 24
Year 2020

2013 Thomas Built Buses Fe Activity Bus

39851

Discover exceptional fleet-ready performance with the 2013 Thomas FE MFSAB, built to provide safe and reliable school transport for up to 36 passengers. Designed for versatility, this bus is perfectly suited for public and private schools, daycares, employee shuttles, summer camps, and more. The dependable Cummins diesel engine ensures robust power and low TCO, making it a smart choice for fleet buyers and organizations focused on long-term value. Passengers will appreciate the comfort of onboard air conditioning, ensuring a pleasant ride in any climate. With miles, this bus offers outstanding longevity for your operations, whether used for daily routes or special group travel.

Thomas buses are renowned for their durable construction and commitment to safety, making them a trusted brand in school and group transportation. The FE model delivers reliable performance and efficiency, making it an excellent addition to any fleet.

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Mileage 31000
Passengers 36
Year 2013

2013 Thomas Built Buses Mvp-Ef Activity Bus

39299

Experience unparalleled reliability and efficiency with the 2013 Thomas Built MVP-EF Bus, a fleet-ready solution designed for optimal school transport and employee commuting. This bus is built to accommodate 36 passengers comfortably, making it ideal for public and private schools, day camps, and corporate fleets. With a reliable chassis and diesel fuel system, the MVP-EF offers low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and exceptional performance for long-term usage.

Thomas Built Buses is renowned for manufacturing high-quality, durable buses tailored to meet diverse transportation needs. Their commitment to safety and innovation ensures that each vehicle is engineered to the highest standards.

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Mileage 27000
Passengers 36
Year 2013

2026 Ford Magellan Activity Bus

38697

Experience the durability and versatility of the 2026 Ford Magellan Activity Bus—your go-to solution for team transport, after school activities, church outings, and employee shuttles. With seating for up to 14 passengers, this activity bus is engineered for comfort and safety, making it ideal for students, adults, staff, athletes, and military members. The powerful 3.5L engine provides reliable performance across city routes or longer journeys, ensuring every trip is smooth and efficient. Designed with a spacious interior, the Magellan offers ample room for both riders and gear, making it perfect for sporting events, band transport, and jobsite commuting.

Ford is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation, delivering vehicles that excel in a wide range of environments. The Magellan embodies these values, combining modern engineering with user-friendly features to support your organization’s transport needs.

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Mileage 5000
Passengers 14
Year 2026

2009 International 71P Activity Bus

38597

2009 International CE 71-Passenger Activity Bus that was formerly owned by the Boys and Girls Club. Only 140,000 miles and running well. Diesel powered with Allison transmission, hydraulic brakes, power entrance door and more.

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Mileage 140800
Passengers 71
Year 2009

2016 Blue Bird Vision Activity Bus

38001

The 2016 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is a versatile and reliable option for fleet-ready school transport solutions. Equipped with a robust 6.7 Liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine and an automatic transmission, this bus ensures a smooth and dependable ride for both students and adults. With seating for up to 43 adults, this bus offers ample space and comfort, making it ideal for schools, camps, and employee transport. Featuring durable gray vinyl bench seats and a spacious interior with 6'4" of headroom, it provides a comfortable environment for riders.

Blue Bird is known for its commitment to quality and safety, making it a trusted brand in the school transport industry. Their buses are designed with a reliable chassis and offer a low total cost of ownership (TCO), ensuring long-term value for fleet operators.

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Mileage 48000
Passengers 43
Year 2016

2013 International Activity Bus

37535

The 2013 International Activity Bus is a versatile and durable solution for all your transportation needs. Ideal for private schools, churches, and various organizations, this bus can comfortably accommodate up to 84 passengers, making it perfect for transporting students, employees, and athletes alike. With only 48,000 miles, this diesel-powered vehicle is built to last, ensuring reliable service for years to come. Its spacious interior is designed for comfort and safety, making it ideal for daily commutes or special events. The International brand is renowned for its reliability and robust construction, providing peace of mind for all your transport requirements. Whether for jobsite transport or sporting activities, this bus is ready to meet your demands.

International is known for producing high-quality, dependable vehicles. Their commitment to excellence ensures that each bus is crafted with precision and care, making them a trusted choice for transportation solutions.

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Mileage 48000
Passengers 84
Year 2013

2010 Navistar Re Activity Bus

37338

Discover reliable fleet-ready school transport with the 2010 IC Navistar RE School Bus. Designed for safe and efficient student and employee transportation, this bus accommodates up to 44 passengers and is ideal for public and private schools, daycare centers, camps, and fleet operators. Built on a robust and dependable chassis, the IC Navistar RE ensures consistent performance, making it a trusted choice for daily routes or employee shuttles. With just miles, this bus offers low total cost of ownership (TCO) and maximizes fleet value for organizations prioritizing safety, reliability, and comfort.

IC is renowned for engineering school buses that stand up to rigorous use and deliver lasting value. The Navistar RE series is respected for its dependable operation and strong chassis, making it a smart investment for any transportation need.

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Mileage 138837
Passengers 44
Year 2010

2016 Ford T-350 MFSAB 14P Activity

36913

Introducing the 2016 Ford Transit T-350 14-Passenger MFSAB Activity Bus, a versatile solution for all your school, day care and shuttle needs. Only 18,000 miles ensures reliability and a long service life. Equipped with a V6 3.7L engine and automatic transmission, this vehicle provides a smooth and efficient ride. The interior boasts ICE COLD front and rear air conditioning for passenger comfort.

Ford, a renowned brand in the automotive industry, is known for its durability and innovation. This Transit model exemplifies Ford's commitment to quality and performance, making it ideal for city routes, airport shuttles, and more.

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Mileage 18000
Passengers 14
Year 2016
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Which Activity Bus Is Right for Your Situation?

Activity buses serve five distinct buyer types — and your right spec varies significantly depending on how you plan to use the vehicle. Use this matrix to narrow your shortlist before you start browsing listings.

Buyer TypeRecommended Bus TypeTypical BudgetKey Consideration
School DistrictType C or D conventional (Thomas C2, Blue Bird All American RE), 48–72 passenger$35,000–$219,000 (used–new)Must meet FMVSS 222 seat standards; CDL required for GVWR over 26,001 lbs; verify state activity-bus endorsement rules
Church / NonprofitMFSAB cutaway (Ford E-350/E-450, Chevy 3500) on Collins or Starcraft body, 14–24 passenger$17,500–$125,000 (used–new)Stay at or under 14 passengers + driver and under 26,001 lbs GVWR to avoid CDL; gasoline chassis lowers maintenance cost vs. diesel for low-mileage fleets
Skoolie ConversionFlat-nose Type C (Thomas Flat Nose, Blue Bird FE), 35–47 ft, pre-2010 diesel$10,900–$40,000Ceiling height 6'3"+; avoid DPF/SCR diesel emissions systems (2007+); inspect frame crossmembers for rust before purchase
Shuttle OperatorFord Transit or Chevy 3500-based MFSAB, 12–24 passenger, under 150k miles$18,000–$85,000Activity-bus classification may require additional DOT authority for interstate routes; confirm with state DMV before purchase
ExporterAny Type C/D diesel, 150,000–250,000 miles acceptable, no restrictions on emissions compliance$10,900–$35,000Confirm destination country's left/right-hand-drive requirements; check export title and lien clearance before shipping

Activity Bus Types: Capacity, Size, and CDL Requirements

School bus classifications (Type A through D) are set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and apply to activity buses as well. The table below gives you the specs you need before you start calling sellers.

TypePassenger CapacityTypical LengthGVWR ClassCDL Required?Used Price Range
Type A (MFSAB)10–24 passengers20–27 ftClass 3–5 (up to 19,500 lbs)No, if ≤14 passengers + driver and GVWR under 26,001 lbs$17,500–$125,000
Type B16–36 passengers23–35 ftClass 5–6 (up to 26,000 lbs)Borderline — verify GVWR on the data plate$20,000–$65,000
Type C (Conventional)24–72 passengers35–40 ftClass 7–8 (26,001–33,000 lbs)Yes — Class B CDL + P and S endorsements required$20,000–$177,000
Type D (Transit-Style RE)36–90 passengers35–40 ftClass 8 (33,001+ lbs)Yes — Class B CDL + P and S endorsements required$30,000–$219,000

Price ranges based on current BusesForSale.com inventory. CDL thresholds are federal minimums — your state may impose stricter rules. Always verify with your state DMV before purchase. See our school bus weight limits and GVWR guide for a deeper breakdown.

Activity Bus Body Types Explained

"Activity bus" is a use classification, not a body style. You'll see the same MFSAB route designation on everything from a compact Ford E-350 cutaway to a full-size Thomas C2. Knowing the body-style differences saves you time on your search — and keeps you from buying more bus than you can legally operate.

MFSAB cutaway (the most common activity bus). A Multi-Function School Activity Bus (MFSAB) body is built on a standard van or medium-duty cutaway chassis — think Ford E-350, Ford E-450, Chevrolet 3500, or GMC 4500. Bodies are installed by converters like Collins, Starcraft, Arrow, and Magellan, typically seating 12–24 passengers. You'll find MFSAB cutaways on our platform ranging from $17,500 to $125,000 depending on year, mileage, and builder. Most fall under 26,001 lbs GVWR. That's what makes them the go-to choice for churches and nonprofits — you don't need a CDL driver on the payroll.

Conventional (Type C) school bus body. The classic doghouse-nose bus — engine hood in the front, driver's compartment set back. Builders like Thomas Built (C2, HDX), Blue Bird (All American), and IC Bus produce conventional bodies on Freightliner, International, and proprietary chassis. Type C activity buses seat 24–72 and run roughly $20,000–$177,000 used. A 2016 Thomas Freightliner C2 with 88,000 miles recently listed at $51,000 — a useful benchmark as you price your search. Plan on a Class B CDL with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements to operate one legally.

Flat-nose (Type C/D transit-style front). Flat-nose buses — including the Thomas Flat Nose, Blue Bird FE, and IC transit-style units — put the driver over or ahead of the front axle. They offer excellent maneuverability in tight school lots and more interior length per overall vehicle length. Skoolie converters favor these for their generous ceiling height (often 6'2"–6'5" interior clear). Our current flat-nose activity bus listings range from $10,900 to $51,000.

Transit-style rear-engine (Type D). The Blue Bird All American RE, Thomas Saf-T-Liner HDX, and similar rear-engine models offer the highest capacity per footprint and the smoothest ride — the engine is at the back, away from the passenger compartment. These are the vehicles of choice for large school districts running high-volume activity routes. Expect $30,000–$219,000 depending on configuration and age. New 2025–2026 Thomas units with 44–48 passenger capacity currently list between $196,000 and $219,000.

Buying Guides for Activity Bus Owners

The purchase price is only the beginning. Before you write the check, you need to understand the compliance, operating, and ownership costs that follow the bus home. These guides cover what you need to know.

Popular Activity Bus Models on BusesForSale.com

These are the brands and models currently active in our activity bus inventory, based on live listing data. Click through to browse available units.

  • Thomas Built Buses (C2, HDX, Flat Nose, Saf-T-Liner EF) — the most common conventional activity bus in school district fleets; diesel-powered, purpose-built school bus chassis. Browse Thomas activity buses →
  • Blue Bird (All American, Vision, FE Flat Nose) — a leading manufacturer offering Type C and D configurations with diesel and alternative-fuel options. Browse Blue Bird activity buses →
  • Collins Bus (MFSAB on Ford and Chevrolet chassis) — the dominant builder for non-CDL cutaway activity buses; available on Ford E-350, E-450, and GMC 4500 chassis. Browse Collins MFSAB buses →
  • Starcraft Bus (MFSAB on Ford and Chevrolet chassis) — cutaway-body competitor to Collins; common in church and nonprofit fleets. Browse Starcraft activity buses →
  • IC Bus (CE, RE series) — International's school bus line; available in Type C and D configurations with Navistar DT466 and MaxxForce engine platforms. Browse IC Bus activity buses →

⚑ Model-specific landing pages for Thomas C2, Blue Bird All American, Collins MFSAB, Starcraft, and IC Bus do not currently exist in the BusesForSale.com URL structure. These links fall back to the activity-buses category page. Recommend creating dedicated model pages at /buses/thomas-c2, /buses/blue-bird-all-american, etc. to capture high-intent model search queries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Activity Buses

How much does a used activity bus cost?

Used activity bus prices on our platform currently start around $10,900 for older high-mileage units — a 2008 Blue Bird Vision at 126,000 miles is a real example. Recent-year, low-mileage used units run up to $85,000. New 2025–2026 Thomas and IC Bus activity buses list between $108,000 and $219,000. If you want a reliable used diesel Type C with under 90,000 miles, budget $30,000–$55,000.

What mileage is too high for a used activity bus?

Activity buses built on full school bus chassis (Thomas, Blue Bird, IC Bus) with diesel engines are designed for 250,000–350,000 miles when properly maintained. Most buyers treat 150,000 miles as the threshold for a thorough pre-purchase inspection — particularly of the engine, transmission, and frame. Cutaway MFSAB units on van chassis (Ford E-350, Chevy 3500) typically age out sooner; 120,000–150,000 miles warrants extra scrutiny.

Do I need a CDL to drive an activity bus?

It depends on the vehicle's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and passenger count. Under federal rules, you need a CDL if your bus exceeds 26,001 lbs GVWR or carries 16 or more passengers including the driver. Most Collins and Starcraft MFSAB cutaways on a Ford E-350 or Chevy 3500 chassis fall below both thresholds — so you're likely fine. Full-size Thomas or Blue Bird conventional buses? You'll always need a Class B CDL with P and S endorsements. Check the data plate — your bus's GVWR is stamped right there.

What is an MFSAB and how is it different from a school bus?

If you're shopping for an MFSAB (Multi-Function School Activity Bus), here's the key distinction: it transports students only to school-sponsored activities — field trips, athletic events, club outings — never on a regular home-to-school route. That single distinction changes the regulatory framework: MFSABs don't require the same yellow color, flashing lights, or stop-arm equipment as home-to-school school buses in most states. They do still have to meet FMVSS 222 seating standards. If you're unsure, check your state department of education's rules.

Can you legally convert an activity bus into a skoolie?

Yes — once you buy an activity bus out of school service, you can retitle it as a non-school-use vehicle and convert it. Your key steps: retitle at your state DMV, remove school bus markings (yellow paint, stop arm, lights), and ensure your conversion meets local RV or vehicle habitability codes if you plan to register it as an RV. Some states make this straightforward; others require inspection. See our bus inspection and registration guide for a step-by-step checklist.

What should I inspect before buying a used activity bus?

When you inspect a used activity bus, focus on five areas: (1) frame crossmembers — you're looking for rust, cracks, and prior welds; (2) engine and transmission — check for oil leaks, blue smoke, and fluid condition; (3) brakes and air system — inspect drums, shoes, and the air dryer if equipped; (4) body and floor — soft floor spots tell you water got in somewhere; (5) service records — DOT inspection logs show you whether the bus was maintained by a fleet or an individual. Budget $150–$300 for an independent pre-purchase inspection. It's almost always worth it.

Browse Activity Buses for Sale

Over 50 activity buses in inventory — MFSAB cutaways, conventional Type C, and flat-nose units from Thomas, Blue Bird, Collins, Starcraft, and IC Bus. Filter by passenger capacity, price, mileage, and fuel type.

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