School Buses

Buying a used school bus starts with bus type, passenger count, CDL needs, and condition.

  • Best fit: Schools, churches, activity programs, and skoolie buyers.
  • Budget: Used school buses range from about $8,000 to over $100,000.
  • Check: Rust, title class, service history, tires, brakes, and CDL fit.
Need help choosing? Compare Type A-D, budgets, buyer fit, and CDL notes after the listings. View the decision guide
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2009 Freightliner B2 Thomas ADA School Bus

41790

Discover the reliability and versatility of the 2009 Freightliner B2 Thomas School Bus, engineered to deliver dependable and efficient transportation for your fleet or private use. Powered by a robust 7.2L L6 diesel engine with air brakes, this bus ensures strong performance and confidence on the road. With miles, it reflects a history of rigorous fleet maintenance, making it an excellent choice for operators seeking reliable transport solutions.

Freightliner is renowned for producing durable, long-lasting vehicles trusted in transportation industries nationwide. The B2 model stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and operational excellence.

This bus is equipped with an integrated wheelchair lift, providing convenient accessibility for all passengers and making it ideal for both commercial transport and specialized service needs. Its well-maintained chassis offers a solid foundation for those considering conversion projects, such as a camper or skoolie. Whether you’re expanding your transportation services or looking for a reliable base for a custom build, this Freightliner B2 delivers outstanding value and peace of mind.

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2019 Freightliner C2 School Bus

40945

Upgrade your school or employee transport fleet with this well-maintained 2019 Freightliner C2 School Bus, designed to accommodate up to 77 passengers with comfort and safety. Featuring a robust Cummins engine and a fleet-ready, reliable chassis, this bus is the ideal solution for public and private schools, daycares, summer camps, and organizations seeking dependable school transport. The hydraulic brake system ensures smooth operation, making every route efficient and secure for students, children, or employee riders. With miles, this vehicle is ready to serve your growing transportation needs while delivering a low total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleets of any size.

Freigthliner is renowned for engineering durable buses that stand the test of time, making them a leader in school and commercial transport.

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Mileage 90,000
Passengers 77
Year 2019

2024 Freightliner C2 School Bus

40944

Introducing the 2024 Freightliner C2 Hyd Brake School Bus, designed to deliver maximum safety, comfort, and reliability for student and employee transport. With seating for up to 77 passengers and a dependable Cummins engine, this bus is fleet-ready and engineered for the demands of daily school transport, employee shuttles, and camp operations. The reliable chassis and hydraulic brake system provide smooth handling and enhanced safety, making it an excellent choice for public and private schools, daycare providers, fleet operators, and export buyers seeking a high-capacity, low TCO solution. The spacious interior ensures every ride is comfortable for students, children, adults, and workers alike, while the robust build supports consistent performance in diverse operating environments.

Freightliner is recognized for its commitment to quality and innovation in school transport.

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Mileage 33,000
Passengers 77
Year 2024

2022 Freightliner C2 School Bus

40833

Enhance your school transport operations with this 2022 Freightliner C2 School Bus, designed to deliver exceptional performance, safety, and comfort for up to 77 passengers. Built on a renowned Freightliner chassis and powered by a dependable Cummins engine, this bus ensures fleet-ready reliability on every route. With hydraulic brakes and a spacious interior, it’s an ideal solution for public and private schools, employee transport, day and summer camps, daycare centers, and more. The robust construction and thoughtfully engineered design contribute to a low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it a smart investment for fleet buyers and operators focused on efficiency and reliability.

Freightliner is a trusted name in commercial transportation, recognized for its durable chassis and high-quality engineering. The C2 model is built to meet the needs of both students and adult riders, providing a safe, comfortable journey every time.

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Mileage 50,000
Passengers 77
Year 2022

2018 Freightliner C2 Thomas School Bus

40585

Discover the versatility and reliability of the 2018 Freightliner C2 Thomas School Bus, an ideal solution for fleet-ready school transport and employee commutes. Designed with a robust Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus ensures a smooth and efficient ride for all passengers. Featuring a reliable chassis and low total cost of ownership (TCO), it's a perfect fit for public schools, private institutions, and fleet operators who prioritize reliability and cost efficiency.

Freightliner is synonymous with quality and durability, making it a trusted choice for transportation needs. The Thomas body style offers practical design for safe and comfortable travel.

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Mileage 225,000
Passengers 18
Year 2018

2017 Freightliner Conventional School Bus

39876

Discover the dependable 2017 Freightliner Conventional Thomas School Bus, expertly designed for organizations seeking fleet-ready, low TCO school transport solutions. With seating for 18 passengers plus capacity for 1 wheelchair, this bus is ideal for public and private schools, daycares, camps, and fleet operators who require accessible, safe, and reliable transportation for students, employees, and adults. The proven Cummins engine paired with an AUTO/HYD transmission ensures a powerful yet smooth ride, while the robust Freightliner chassis delivers unmatched durability and longevity for high-usage routes. With miles, this bus is ready to integrate seamlessly into your fleet, supporting your operational needs with confidence.

Freightliner is renowned for its reliable chassis and commitment to quality, while Thomas Bus bodies are celebrated for safety and comfort. Together, they offer a trusted platform for efficient and comfortable transport.

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Mileage 217,000
Passengers 18
Year 2017

2017 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

39864

Introducing the 2017 Freightliner Thomas Conventional, a reliable and fleet-ready school bus designed to meet your transportation needs. With a seating capacity for 78 passengers, this bus ensures a comfortable and safe journey for students, employees, and other passengers. Powered by a durable Cummins engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, this vehicle offers a smooth and efficient ride, perfect for daily school transport or employee commuting. Its low total cost of ownership (TCO) makes it an attractive option for fleet buyers and school bus fleet operators.

Freightliner is renowned for its robust and reliable chassis, ensuring longevity and reliability on the road. Thomas buses are known for their safety and comfort, making them a trusted choice for educational institutions and businesses alike.

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Mileage 171,000
Passengers 78
Year 2017

2014 Freightliner C2 Thomas School Bus

39853

Discover the ideal transport solution with the 2014 Freightliner C2 Thomas School Bus, designed to meet the diverse needs of public schools, private schools, and more. This fleet-ready vehicle boasts a robust and reliable chassis, powered by a Cummins engine, ensuring dependable performance across various applications. With a capacity to accommodate 81 passengers, it's perfect for school transport, employee commutes, or day/summer camp excursions. The low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) combined with an automatic transmission provides efficiency and ease of operation, making it a standout choice for fleet buyers and operators.

Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to durability and innovation, delivering vehicles that consistently meet the demands of heavy-duty transport. The Thomas model exemplifies these qualities, providing a dependable and safe ride for all passengers.

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Mileage 98,000
Passengers 81
Year 2014

2015 Freightliner C2 Thomas School Bus

39832

Introducing the 2015 Freightliner Conventional Thomas School Bus, an exemplary choice for fleet-ready school transport. With a robust and reliable chassis, this bus ensures maximum safety and comfort for up to 78 passengers, making it ideal for public and private schools, employee transport, and day/summer camps. Built with a dependable Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus promises low TCO while delivering superior performance. Its durable design stands the test of time, providing a trustworthy transportation solution for students, children, and adults alike.

Freightliner, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the bus industry, ensures each vehicle is crafted with precision and care. Thomas, known for its commitment to safety and reliability, complements the Freightliner excellence by delivering top-notch craftsmanship.

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Mileage 134,000
Passengers 78
Year 2015

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

39817

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is an ideal choice for organizations seeking a robust and reliable transport solution. With a spacious capacity for 78 passengers, this bus is perfectly suited for public and private schools, employee transport, and summer camps. Its Cummins engine paired with an automatic transmission ensures a smooth and dependable ride, ideal for long-term fleet operations. The bus's durable and fleet-ready design promises a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), making it an economical choice for fleet buyers and school bus fleet operators.

Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to exceptional build quality and reliability, ensuring that each vehicle stands up to rigorous daily demands. The Thomas body enhances this reputation by providing additional durability and comfort for daily school transport needs.

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Mileage 153,000
Passengers 78
Year 2015

2005 Freightliner FS65 School Bus

39360

Introducing the 2005 Freightliner FS65 School Bus, a fleet-ready solution for all your school transport needs. Built with a robust and reliable chassis, this bus is designed to provide safe and comfortable journeys for up to 26 passengers, including students, children, and employees. Powered by a Caterpillar C7 7.2L I6 diesel engine, coupled with an automatic transmission, this bus ensures operational efficiency and low TCO, making it an ideal choice for fleet buyers and school bus fleet operators. The spacious interior and sturdy exterior, finished in classic yellow, make it a practical and recognizable option for public and private schools, as well as daycare and afterschool care facilities.

Freightliner is known for its commitment to quality and durability, ensuring that every bus is built to last. With a focus on safety and reliability, Freightliner continues to set the standard in the school transport industry.

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Mileage 198,000
Passengers 26
Year 2005

2015 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

38016

Introducing the 2015 Freightliner Thomas School Bus, a fleet-ready solution for your school transport needs. With a seating capacity of 78 passengers, this bus is perfect for safely transporting students, adults, and employees alike. Its reliable chassis, powered by a Cummins engine and automatic transmission, ensures a smooth and dependable ride every time. The low total cost of ownership (TCO) makes it an ideal choice for public and private schools, daycares, afterschool care, and fleet operators looking for cost-effective transport options.

Freightliner is renowned for its durability and performance, providing peace of mind for fleet operators. Thomas buses are engineered for safety and reliability, setting the standard in school transportation.

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Mileage 123,000
Passengers 78
Year 2015

2012 Freightliner Conventional School Bus

38008

Experience exceptional reliability and efficiency with the 2012 Freightliner Conventional Thomas School Bus, designed to accommodate up to 66 passengers comfortably. Built on Freightliner's renowned chassis and powered by a robust Cummins engine, this bus offers fleet-ready dependability and low total cost of ownership—ideal for public and private schools, employee transport, day/summer camps, and other group transportation needs. The automatic transmission and air system provide smooth handling and enhanced safety, ensuring peace of mind for operators and riders alike. With miles, this well-maintained bus is ready for immediate service, supporting daily routes or special events with confidence.

Freightliner stands for durability and advanced engineering, making it a trusted choice among fleet buyers. Thomas bodywork ensures a comfortable and safe ride for students, employees, and other passengers. Choose this reliable solution for your school transport or fleet needs, and benefit from proven performance and long-term value.

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Mileage 164,000
Passengers 66
Year 2012

2012 Freightliner Conventional School Bus

38005

Introducing the 2012 Freightliner Thomas Conventional, a fleet-ready school bus designed for reliable and efficient school transport. With a robust Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus ensures smooth and dependable journeys for up to 66 passengers, making it ideal for public and private schools, employee transport, and more. Its reliable chassis provides a low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it a smart investment for fleet operators and educational institutions.

Freightliner, renowned for its durability and performance, delivers exceptional value with this model, ensuring that your transportation needs are met with the utmost reliability. Trust in the brand's legacy of engineering excellence to keep your passengers safe and comfortable on every ride.

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Mileage 166,000
Passengers 66
Year 2012

2012 Freightliner Conventional School Bus

38004

Maximize your fleet’s efficiency with the 2012 Freightliner Conventional School Bus, equipped to safely and comfortably transport up to 66 passengers. Built on a reliable Freightliner chassis and powered by a dependable Cummins engine with AUTO/AIR transmission, this bus is an ideal solution for public and private schools, employee transport, camps, daycare centers, and fleet operators seeking robust school transport options. With miles, this bus is fleet-ready and engineered to deliver low TCO for organizations looking to optimize their operations and long-term value.

Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to durability, safety, and innovation in commercial transportation. The Thomas body ensures quality construction and trusted performance for every route.

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Mileage 166,000
Passengers 66
Year 2012

2013 Freightliner Thomas Conventional School Bus

37358

Introducing the 2013 Freightliner Thomas Conventional, a robust and reliable solution for all your fleet-ready needs. With a spacious capacity to accommodate 72 passengers, this school bus is ideal for public schools, private schools, and fleet operators seeking efficient and dependable school transport. Built on a reliable chassis, it ensures safety and stability, making it perfect for transporting students, children, and adults alike. The automatic transmission coupled with a durable Cummins engine offers a low TCO, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and long-term value.

Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to durability and performance, making it a leading choice in the commercial vehicle industry. With this Thomas Conventional model, Freightliner continues its legacy of delivering quality and innovation in school transport solutions.

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Mileage 141,000
Passengers 72
Year 2013

2012 Freightliner Thomas ADA School Bus

37351

This 2012 Freightliner Thomas Conventional bus is a fleet-ready solution perfect for school transport and employee shuttle services. With a low TCO and reliable chassis, it serves as an ideal vehicle for public and private schools, as well as fleet operators looking for dependable transportation options. Featuring a robust Cummins engine and manual transmission, this bus ensures a powerful and smooth ride for all passengers, including 18 standard seats and 3 wheelchair access positions. The wheelchair lift is a key accessibility feature, making it suitable for all riders, including students, employees, and jobsite workers.

Freightliner, a renowned name in the automotive industry, is celebrated for its commitment to quality and reliability. The Thomas Conventional model continues this legacy, offering durability and efficiency in every journey.

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Mileage 164,000
Passengers 18
Year 2012

2014 Freightliner Thomas ADA School Bus

37348

Discover a versatile and fleet-ready school transport solution with the 2014 Freightliner Conventional Bus. Designed to serve the needs of public and private schools, employee transport, and various camps, this bus ensures reliable and comfortable journeys for all passengers. With a seating capacity for 20 passengers and additional wheelchair accessibility, it caters to students, children, adults, and employees alike. The robust Cummins engine and automatic transmission promise a smooth ride, while the reliable chassis ensures low TCO, making it an economical choice for fleet buyers and school bus fleet operators.

Freightliner, a renowned name in the commercial vehicle market, is synonymous with durability and performance. The Thomas body complements this with a spacious and well-structured design, ensuring safety and comfort on every trip.

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Mileage 143,000
Passengers 20
Year 2014

2011 Freightliner Thomas Built Bus School Bus

37344

Introducing the 2011 Freightliner Thomas Built School Bus, a fleet-ready solution designed for efficient school transport and employee commuting needs. This robust vehicle, built on a reliable chassis, ensures a low TCO, making it an economic choice for fleet buyers and school bus operators. With a seating capacity for 71 passengers, it's ideal for transporting students, children, and adults alike. Featuring spacious under-bus storage bays, it offers ample room for luggage, perfect for day/summer camps and long-distance travel requirements.

Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to durability and safety, making it a trusted name in the bus industry. The Thomas Built series combines quality engineering with practical design, ensuring longevity and reliability.

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Mileage 149,850
Passengers 71
Year 2011

2018 Freightliner C2 School Bus

36778

Discover the 2018 Freightliner C2, a fleet-ready solution engineered for optimal school transport and employee commuting. With a robust CUMMINS 6.7 engine paired with an Allison 2500 PTS transmission, this bus offers a reliable chassis that ensures smooth and dependable rides for up to 77 passengers. Its streamlined design and low total cost of ownership (TCO) make it a prime choice for public schools, private institutions, and fleet buyers seeking efficiency and reliability.

Freightliner is renowned for building durable and efficient vehicles that cater to various transport needs. Their commitment to quality and innovation makes them a trusted name in the automotive industry.

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Mileage 88,567
Passengers 77
Year 2018

2011 Freightliner C2 School Bus

36634

Introducing the 2011 Freightliner 341TS School Bus, a fleet-ready vehicle designed to meet the rigorous demands of school transport and employee commuting. With its reliable chassis and low total cost of ownership (TCO), this bus is the ideal solution for public and private schools, daycare centers, and fleet operators looking for dependable transport options. Powered by a robust ISB 6.7 engine and featuring an Allison transmission, it ensures smooth and efficient operation for a wide range of passengers, including students, employees, and jobsite workers. With a capacity of 78 passengers, this bus is perfect for large groups, making it an excellent choice for day camps and tech schools.

The Freightliner brand is synonymous with quality and durability, making it a trusted choice in the transportation industry. Known for their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Freightliner vehicles are designed to deliver exceptional performance and reliability.

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Mileage 100
Year 2011

2013 Freightliner C2 School Bus

36633

The 2013 Freightliner 341TS School Bus is the epitome of fleet-ready transportation, ideal for public and private schools, employee transit, and summer camps. With seating for up to 78 passengers, this school bus ensures that students, children, and adults travel safely and comfortably. Powered by the reliable ISB 6.7 engine and equipped with an Allison transmission, this bus promises a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and a durable performance that your fleet can rely on. Built on a robust and reliable chassis, its diesel fuel type further reinforces its efficiency and longevity, making it a preferred choice for fleet operators.

Freightliner is renowned for producing durable and dependable vehicles, and the 341TS is no exception. With years of experience in automotive excellence, Freightliner continues to meet and exceed the expectations of fleet buyers and operators worldwide.

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Mileage 100
Passengers 78
Year 2013

2002 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

36546

The 2002 Freightliner Thomas School Bus stands out as a fleet-ready vehicle, perfectly tailored for school transport and employee transit solutions. With a robust and reliable chassis, this bus ensures a low total cost of ownership (TCO) making it an attractive option for fleet buyers and operators. Featuring a durable diesel engine paired with an automatic Allison transmission, this vehicle delivers reliable performance for both short and long routes. With the capacity to accommodate 71 passengers, it's ideal for transporting students, employees, or construction crews efficiently and comfortably.

Renowned for its engineering excellence, Freightliner delivers quality and durability in every vehicle, ensuring peace of mind for operators. The Thomas model exemplifies this commitment to reliability and performance, making it a trusted choice in the industry.

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Mileage 207,000
Passengers 71
Year 2002

2013 Freightliner C2 School Bus

36482

Introducing the 2013 Freightliner C2 School Bus, a fleet-ready solution designed to meet the diverse transportation needs of public and private schools, employee transport services, and more. With a seating capacity of up to 78 passengers, this bus ensures efficient and reliable school transport for students, children, and adults alike. Built on a reliable chassis, the Freightliner C2 promises longevity and performance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership).

Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability, ensuring that each vehicle is built to withstand the demands of daily use. The C2 model exemplifies this dedication with its robust construction and thoughtful engineering.

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Mileage 117
Year 2013
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Which School Bus Is Right for You?

School buses show up on more buyer shortlists than you might expect. Whether you're a fleet manager, a church administrator, or a first-time converter, the right type depends on your passenger count, driver licensing, and budget. Here's how the main use cases stack up.

School bus buyer-fit matrix by use case
Buyer TypeRecommended TypeTypical Budget (Used)Key Consideration
School district / fleet operatorType C or D (66–90 passengers)$15,000 – $40,000FMVSS 222 compliance, CDL Class B + P + S endorsements required for drivers, fleet pricing on multiples
Church / nonprofitType A (14–20 passengers) or activity bus$8,000 – $18,000Non-CDL operability below 26,001 lbs GVWR and 15 passengers; look for MFSAB (Multi-Function School Activity Bus) titles
Skoolie conversionShort Type C (40 ft or under), flat-nose preferred$3,000 – $12,000Interior ceiling height (minimum 6 ft standing clearance), rust-free frame, no major accident history — cosmetics don't matter, structure does
Shuttle / charter operatorType A transit-style or activity bus$10,000 – $25,000Passenger comfort, ADA lift option, low mileage relative to age; confirm title as activity or transit bus (not school bus) if drivers lack CDL S endorsement
ExporterType C or D, any age$3,000 – $15,000Clean title, no rebuilt/salvage designation, major mechanical systems intact; cosmetic and compliance condition matters less for export markets

School Bus Types at a Glance

The federal classification system divides school buses into four types by body configuration and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR — the maximum safe loaded weight). The type you choose determines CDL requirements, route fit, and resale value. If you're unsure which type fits your operation, the buyer matrix above is a good starting point.

School bus Type A through D: specifications and CDL requirements
TypePassenger CapacityTypical LengthGVWR ClassCDL Required?Used Price Range
Type AUp to 24 passengers20 – 28 ftUnder 10,000 lbs (A-1) or 10,001 – 14,500 lbs (A-2)No CDL if ≤15 passengers and <26,001 lbs GVWR$8,000 – $20,000
Type BUp to 35 passengers23 – 30 ft10,001 – 26,000 lbsCDL Class B required above 26,000 lbs GVWR$10,000 – $22,000
Type CUp to 66 passengers35 – 40 ftOver 10,000 lbs (conventional cab-over or flat-nose)CDL Class B + P + S endorsements$12,000 – $35,000
Type DUp to 90 passengers40 – 45 ftOver 10,000 lbs (transit/flat-nose, rear engine)CDL Class B + P + S endorsements$15,000 – $50,000

Capacity figures reflect standard school-bus seating (three-abreast, padded compartmentalization). Actual capacity varies by manufacturer configuration and seat spacing.

Understanding the Four School Bus Types

Type A — Small Body on Van or Cutaway Chassis. Type A buses are built on a van or cutaway chassis — essentially a commercial van extended into a bus body. You get seating for up to 24 passengers and a footprint that stays manageable in parking lots and urban routes. Many configurations stay under the CDL threshold, which is why they're the default choice for churches, daycares, and small nonprofits. Popular platforms include the Ford E-450 and Chevy Express cutaway.

Type B — Bus Body on Van or Truck Chassis. Type B buses extend a conventional bus body forward over the engine, mounted on a heavy-duty van or truck chassis. You're looking at seating for up to 35 passengers — useful when a Type A cutaway isn't enough but a full-size Type C feels like overkill. Less common than Type A or C in used inventory. One thing to verify before you buy: CDL requirements depend on the GVWR, so confirm whether your driver needs a license upgrade.

Type C — Conventional Full-Size School Bus. Type C is the iconic yellow school bus — flat-nosed or conventional cab-forward body on a heavy chassis, seating 48–66 passengers. If you're shopping used inventory, you'll find the Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 and Blue Bird Vision dominating the listings. Both are well-supported nationwide for parts and service. Expect well-maintained examples with 100,000–200,000 miles to fall in the $15,000–$30,000 range. Your drivers will need a CDL Class B with P and S endorsements.

Type D — Transit-Style Full-Size School Bus. Type D buses use a transit (flat-nose, rear-engine) configuration — the same profile as a city bus. If you're running high-density routes, the 90-passenger capacity is hard to beat. The rear engine improves front-end serviceability and reduces passenger-area noise, which your drivers will appreciate on long runs. Used pricing typically starts around $15,000 and climbs to $50,000 for later-model, low-mileage examples. Same CDL endorsements apply as Type C.

Shop by Model

Looking for a specific make? The Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 school bus is one of the most common Type C units in used inventory — parts availability is excellent and mechanic familiarity is high nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a used school bus cost?

Used school bus prices range from $3,000 for high-mileage export candidates to $50,000 for late-model, low-mileage Type D units. If you're targeting the most common used option — a Type C conventional — expect to spend $12,000–$30,000 for a serviceable unit. Condition, mileage, model year, and title type (school bus vs. activity bus) all affect your final price.

How many miles is too many on a used school bus?

Diesel school buses — the majority of used inventory — routinely reach 250,000–350,000 miles with proper maintenance. Mileage alone is a poor indicator for your purchase decision: a 150,000-mile bus with documented oil changes and a clean frame is worth more than a 90,000-mile unit with deferred maintenance and rust. Always request service records and inspect the frame before you buy.

Do I need a CDL to drive a school bus?

In most states, yes — if you're transporting students. A CDL Class B with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements is required for vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR carrying more than 15 passengers. Type A buses under 26,001 lbs with 15 or fewer passengers may not require a CDL, but state rules vary — confirm with your DMV before purchase.

Can I legally convert a school bus into an RV (skoolie)?

Yes, in all 50 states — but the process varies. You'll need to retitle the bus from "school bus" to "motor home" or "converted bus" with your state DMV, which typically requires photos of the completed conversion and a vehicle inspection. Most states don't allow school-titled vehicles to be registered for personal use without retitling. Budget $50–$300 for fees depending on the state.

What should I inspect before buying a used school bus?

Prioritize frame integrity (look for rust at crossmembers and outriggers), transmission function, engine oil condition, and brake system wear. Check the roof for delamination on older units. Request a Carfax or NMVTIS report to flag salvage or rebuilt titles. A pre-purchase inspection by a diesel mechanic familiar with Cummins or International engines typically costs $150–$300 and is well worth it.

What's the difference between a school bus and an activity bus title?

A school bus title restricts the vehicle to student transportation under state education regulations and requires CDL-endorsed drivers. An activity bus (also called MFSAB — Multi-Function School Activity Bus) title allows broader use — field trips, church groups, youth programs — and may not require the S endorsement. Activity-titled buses often sell at a premium for non-school buyers.

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