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: Often $8,000-$30,000 depending on age, mileage, and condition.
  • 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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2018 Thomas C2 48P ADA

51611

2018 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 48 Passenger ADA accessible full sized school bus with a Cummins diesel engine, Allison automatic transmission, Ricon ADA lift, air brakes, rear air suspension, front and rear air conditioning, seat belts, and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet service in Florida and is ready to get back to work.

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Mileage 95027
Passengers 48
Year 2018

2018 Thomas C2 30P ADA AC

51610

2018 Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 30 Passenger ADA accessible school bus with a Cummins diesel engine, Allison automatic transmission, Front and rear air conditioning, Air brakes, seat belts, and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet service in Florida and is ready to get back to work. 

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Mileage 110327
Passengers 30
Year 2018

2018 Thomas C2 36P ADA

51608

2018 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 36 Passenger ADA accessible yellow school bus with a Cummins diesel engine, Allison automatic, Front and rear air conditioning, Ricon ADA lift, air brakes, seat belts and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet service in Florida and is ready to get back to work. This bus is a perfect solution for any school or business interested in providing wheel chair accessible school bus transport.

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Mileage 127834
Passengers 36
Year 2018

2018 Thomas C2 33P HandiCap

51606

2018 Freightliner Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 33 Passenger ADA Wheel Chari Accessible school bus with a Cummins diesel engine, Allison automatic transmission, front and rear air conditioning, Ricon ADA accessible lift, air brakes, and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet service in Florida and is ready to get back to work. It is perfect for any public school, private school, church, summer camp or other business interested in providing ADA wheel chair accessible transportation.

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Mileage 91748
Passengers 33
Year 2018

2018 Thomas C2 39P ADA

51605

2018 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 39 Passenger ADA accessible school bus with a Cummins diesel, Allison automatic transmission, front and rear air conditioning, Ricon ADA lift, air brakes, and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use in sunny Florida and is ready to get back to work. This bus is perfect for any public school, private school, day camp, fleet operator or company interested in providing ADA accessible school bus transportation options.

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Mileage 110145
Passengers 39
Year 2018

2018 International CE 51P AC ADA

51588

2018 International CE 51-Passenger air conditioned ADA Wheel Chair Accessible School Bus with a Cummins Diesel engine and Allison automatic transmission. This unit was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use in Florida. It has front and rear air conditioning, air brakes, an air door, tinted glass, seat belts, Braun 1,000 pound capacity wheel chair lift and more. This bus is perfect for any public school,  private school, day camp, college, school bus fleet operator or company looking to provide ADA accessible transportation.

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Mileage 126144
Passengers 51
Year 2018

2014 Freightliner Thomas 72P

51528

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 72-Passenger Yellow School Bus with a Cummins Diesel, Allison automatic transmission, tinted glass, power entry door, hydraulic brakes and more. This is a one owner bus that was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use. This bus is perfect for public schools, private schools, employee transport, job site transport, student transport or any fleet operator looking for mass transit options.

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Mileage 127958
Passengers 72
Year 2014

2014 Thomas 72P

51527

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 72-Passenger Full Size School Bus with a Cummins Diesel engine, Allison automatic transmission, tinted glass, hydraulic brakes, power entry door, yellow roof and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use and it is ready to get back to work.

This used school bus is perfect for public schools, private schools, school bus fleet operators, day care centers and employee transport needs.

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Mileage 137243
Passengers 72
Year 2014

2014 Freightliner Thomas 72P

51526

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 72-Passenger Yellow School Bus with a Cummins diesel, hydraulic brakes, tinted glass, tinted glass, a power entry door, audio system and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use and is perfect for any public school, private school, school bus fleet operator, day camp, summer camp, employee transport company or any company interested in carrying large groups of children or adults in style. 

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Mileage 133398
Passengers 72
Year 2014

2015 Thomas 72P School Bus

51525

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 72-Passenger full size yellow school bus with a Cummins Diesel, Allison automatic transmission, hydraulic brakes, engine brake, tinted glass and more. This bus is perfect for any fleet operator, public school, private school or any fleet operator interested in providing student transportation.

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Mileage 131102
Passengers 72
Year 2015

2015 Freightliner Thomas 72P

51524

2015 Freightliner Thomas 72-Passenger full size yellow school bus with a Cummins Diesel engine, Allison automatic transmission, hydraulic brakes, tinted glass, power entry door, engine brake and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use and is ready to get back to work. It is perfect for public schools, private schools, daycare centers, summer camps, employee transportation companies, fleet operators or any company interestd in providing transportation to students or employees.

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Mileage 160787
Passengers 72
Year 2015

2012 Blue Bird Yellow Bus

51417

Call BusesForSale.com now for all information on this bus and others like it. We have 40 matching units in stock now and ready to ship. These units are perfect for schools, churches, fleet operators, job site transport, used bus exporters and more. 

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Mileage 133957
Passengers 72
Year 2012

2017 Thomas 42P ADA Accessible

51394

2017 Freightliner Thomas Saf-T-Liner 39-Passenger ADA wheel chair accessible School Bus a Braun wheel chair lift, air conditioning, air brakes, air door, tinted glass, seat belts for all passengers, 3 wheel chair positions and more. This bus was recently retired from school bus fleet use in Florida and it is ready to get back to work.

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Mileage 116588
Passengers 39
Year 2017

2016 Bus Fleet For Sale

51373

10 matching units in stock now and ready to sell. 2016 International CE 72-Passenger Yellow School Buses with Cummins diesels, allison automatic transmission, air brakes, air door and more. One owner units that were just retired from the same fleet. These buses are perfect for export buyers, fleet operators, schools, churches or any company looking to transport large numbers of children or adults in comfort.

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Mileage 150755
Passengers 72
Year 2016

2016 International CE 72P

51370

Cummins diesel powered 2016 International CE 72-Passenger full size School Bus with air brakes, air door, Allison automatic transmission and more. We have 10 matching units in stock now and can fill bulk oders quickly. We ship worldwide. 

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Mileage 176155
Passengers 72
Year 2016

2015 International CE 72P

51363

2015 International CE 72 Passenger full size yellow school bus with a diesel engine, allison automatic transmission, air brakes, air door and more. Ready to go.

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Mileage 236815
Passengers 72
Year 2015

2015 International CE 72P

51361

2015 International CE 72-Passenger full size yellow school bus with air brakes, air door and more. One owner, fleet maintained and in stock right now. We have a few matching units in stock now and ready to ship.

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Mileage 166915
Passengers 72
Year 2015

2015 Blue Bird Vision 72 Passenger

51311

2015 Blue Bird Vision 72-Passenger Yellow School Bus with a Cummins Diesel engine, Allison Automatic Transmission, Air Brakes, Engine Brake and more! One owner and fleet maintained since new. Recently retired from daily school bus fleet service and ready to go back to work.

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Mileage 200582
Passengers 72
Year 2015

2011 Bluebird Vision 72P

51271

2011 Blue Bird Vision 72-Passenger Yellow School bus with a Cummins Diesel engine, Allison Automatic transmission, tinted glass, Air Brakes and more! Recently retired from daily school bus fleet use and ready to get back to work. 

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Mileage 217587
Passengers 72
Year 2011

2013 Bluebird AAFE

51260

The 2013 Blue Bird All American FE is a fleet-ready, 71-passenger school bus equipped with a reliable Cummins Diesel engine and Allison Automatic Transmission. Designed for public and private schools seeking safe and cost-effective transportation solutions, this bus is ideal for daily routes and extracurricular activities, offering a dependable option that helps reduce dependency on rentals. Blue Bird is celebrated for its unwavering commitment to safety and durability, ensuring each vehicle meets rigorous standards. This dedication makes Blue Bird a trusted choice for schools and organizations nationwide, providing peace of mind with a dependable vehicle that supports regulatory compliance and efficient use of school funds.

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Mileage 192800
Passengers 71
Year 2013

2013 Bluebird AAFE 71 Passenger

51258

The 2013 Blue Bird All American FE is a fleet-ready, 71-passenger school bus, designed for schools seeking reliable and cost-effective student transportation. With a durable Cummins Diesel engine and an Allison Automatic Transmission, this bus is perfect for daily routes and extracurricular activities, offering a dependable solution to reduce dependency on rentals and maintain compliance with transportation regulations. Blue Bird's longstanding reputation for manufacturing safe and dependable buses assures buyers like Principal Parker of exceptional mechanical reliability and long-term value. Known for their commitment to quality, Blue Bird buses provide peace of mind, ensuring that educational institutions nationwide can confidently invest in their transportation needs.

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Mileage 172905
Passengers 71
Year 2013

2013 International CE School Bus

50023

The 2013 International CE NJ 54 School Bus is a robust and spacious vehicle, designed to accommodate 54 passengers comfortably. This full-size yellow school bus is perfect for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs seeking a reliable transportation solution. With a diesel engine and automatic transmission, it offers smooth and efficient performance, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride for students and passengers alike. Equipped with seat belts for all passengers, this bus has been fleet maintained since new and is ready to get back to work. Available for immediate purchase at a competitive price, it represents a valuable investment for educational institutions and transport providers.

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Mileage 121730
Passengers 54
Year 2013

5 Units 2021 Thomas C2 72P

32273

5 matching units available. 2021 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 72-Passenger full size yellow school buses powered by the Detroit Diesel DD5 engine, automatic transmission, power entry door, tinted glass, hydraulic brakes and more. These buses are being retired from fleet use. They are inspected and operating properly. These used school buses are perfect for any public school, private school, fleet operator or any school bus company interested providing student transportation.

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Mileage 70000
Passengers 72
Year 2021

10 Units 2024 Thomas C2 72P

32272

10 Matching Units. 2024 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 72 Passenger yellow school buses with the DD% Detroit Diesel engine, automatic transmission, tinted glass, hydraulis brakes, power entry door and more. These buses are nearly new units that are in operation now. They are perfect for anyone interested in saving money. Any public school, private school, school bus fleet operator or any company involved in student transportation can plug these buses into their fleet, saving time and money vs buying new buses and waiting forever to receive them.

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Mileage 40000
Passengers 72
Year 2024
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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 Type Recommended Type Typical Budget (Used) Key Consideration
School district / fleet operator Type C or D (66–90 passengers) $15,000 – $40,000 FMVSS 222 compliance, CDL Class B + P + S endorsements required for drivers, fleet pricing on multiples
Church / nonprofit Type A (14–20 passengers) or activity bus $8,000 – $18,000 Non-CDL operability below 26,001 lbs GVWR and 15 passengers; look for MFSAB (Multi-Function School Activity Bus) titles
Skoolie conversion Short Type C (40 ft or under), flat-nose preferred $3,000 – $12,000 Interior ceiling height (minimum 6 ft standing clearance), rust-free frame, no major accident history — cosmetics don't matter, structure does
Shuttle / charter operator Type A transit-style or activity bus $10,000 – $25,000 Passenger 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
Exporter Type C or D, any age $3,000 – $15,000 Clean 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
Type Passenger Capacity Typical Length GVWR Class CDL Required? Used Price Range
Type A Up to 24 passengers 20 – 28 ft Under 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 B Up to 35 passengers 23 – 30 ft 10,001 – 26,000 lbs CDL Class B required above 26,000 lbs GVWR $10,000 – $22,000
Type C Up to 66 passengers 35 – 40 ft Over 10,000 lbs (conventional cab-over or flat-nose) CDL Class B + P + S endorsements $12,000 – $35,000
Type D Up to 90 passengers 40 – 45 ft Over 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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