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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2013 Freightliner Thomas ADA School Bus

24508

This 2013 Freightliner Thomas school bus offers seating for 24 passengers and 3 wheelchair positions, equipped with a 6.7L diesel engine and hydraulic brakes. A great option for schools or daycare centers requiring ADA-accessible transportation.

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Mileage 166229
Passengers 24
Year 2013
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2013 IC CE ADA School Bus

24507

This 2013 IC CE school bus features seating for 36 passengers plus 1 wheelchair position, powered by a dependable DT466 7.6L diesel engine and air brakes. Ideal for smaller school routes or community organizations needing accessible transportation with durability in mind.

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Mileage 132598
Passengers 36
Year 2013
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2013 IC CE School Bus

24506

This 2013 IC CE school bus seats up to 78 passengers and runs on a reliable DT466 diesel engine with air brakes. With under 71k miles, it's an affordable option for public school districts or private institutions looking for dependable large-capacity transportation.

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Mileage 70862
Passengers 78
Year 2013
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2012 Freightliner Thomas ADA School Bus

24504

Looking for a wheelchair-accessible school bus on a budget? This 2012 Freightliner Thomas S Conv is a smart, reliable choice. With seating for 24 passengers and 3 integrated wheelchair positions, it’s ideal for special education routes, daycares, or non-emergency medical transport. Powered by a durable 6.7L diesel engine and equipped with hydraulic brakes, this bus offers both strength and efficiency.

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Mileage 229675
Passengers 24
Year 2012
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2012 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

24503

This 2012 Freightliner Thomas school bus offers seating for 24 passengers and 3 wheelchair positions, combining accessibility and performance. Equipped with a durable 6.7L diesel engine and hydraulic brakes, it's a great fit for special education routes, daycare transport, or assisted living facilities.

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Mileage 192253
Passengers 24
Year 2012
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2012 Blue Bird Type B ADA School Bus

24502

This 2012 Blue Bird wheelchair-accessible school bus seats 24 passengers and includes 3 wheelchair positions. Powered by a 6.7L diesel engine with hydraulic brakes, it’s ideal for schools or care facilities needing reliable and inclusive transport.

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Mileage 202251
Passengers 24
Year 2012
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2012 Blue Bird Type C School Bus

24501

The 2012 Blue Bird school bus offers seating for 66 passengers, powered by a reliable 6.7L diesel engine and equipped with hydraulic brakes. An affordable and dependable choice for school districts and group transportation.

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Mileage 98348
Passengers 66
Year 2012
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2012 Chevrolet Starcraft Type A School Bus

24500

This 2012 Chevrolet Starcraft school bus is a 29-passenger vehicle powered by a 6.0L gasoline engine and equipped with hydraulic brakes. Ideal for smaller schools or activity transport needing a compact and dependable solution.

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Mileage 154650
Passengers 29
Year 2012
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2012 IC CE School Bus

24499

This 2012 IC CE school bus seats up to 72 passengers and runs on a durable 7.6L diesel engine with hydraulic brakes. An affordable and reliable option for school districts or workforce transport looking for value.

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Mileage 97941
Passengers 72
Year 2012
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2011 Blue Bird Type D School Bus

24497

This 2011 Blue Bird school bus seats 71 passengers and runs on a 6.7L diesel engine with hydraulic brakes—an affordable and dependable choice for school transportation needs.

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Mileage 171424
Passengers 71
Year 2011
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2011 Blue Bird Type D School Bus

24496

This 2011 Blue Bird school bus offers seating for 76 passengers and is powered by a 6.7L diesel engine with hydraulic brakes—perfect for high-capacity student transportation with reliable performance.

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Mileage 168659
Passengers 76
Year 2011
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2010 Blue Bird Type D School Bus

24495

This 2010 Blue Bird school bus seats up to 71 passengers and runs on a 6.7L diesel engine with hydraulic brakes, ideal for school districts or organizations needing dependable large-capacity transport.

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Mileage 178033
Passengers 71
Year 2010
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2009 GMC Thomas School Bus

24494

This 2009 GMC Thomas 29-passenger school bus is equipped with a durable Vortec 6.0L gasoline engine and hydraulic brakes, making it an excellent fit for schools or private institutions seeking a reliable transport solution.

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Passengers 29
Year 2009
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2009 Chevrolet Express Cutaway School Bus

24493

This 2009 Chevrolet Express Cutaway offers a powerful 6.0L V8 engine and a versatile platform ideal for shuttle or commercial use. With just under 118,000 miles, it's a dependable option for transportation services looking for a flexible and affordable solution.

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Mileage 117650
Year 2009
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2009 Blue Bird Type C School Bus

24492

This 2009 Blue Bird S Conv School Bus is a dependable diesel-powered vehicle with seating for 66 passengers. Powered by a 6.7L Cummins engine and hydraulic brakes, it's a solid option for schools or organizations in need of cost-efficient group transport.

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Mileage 118126
Passengers 66
Year 2009
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2007 Blue Bird Type D School Bus

24491

This 2007 Blue Bird School Bus delivers reliable transportation for large groups with room for 71 passengers. It runs on a 7.2L diesel engine and features hydraulic brakes, making it a cost-effective option for schools or organizations looking for budget-friendly fleet expansion.

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Mileage 167892
Passengers 71
Year 2007
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2015 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

24489

The 2015 Bluebird Vision School Bus offers a powerful and dependable ride for large groups, making it a smart investment for school districts or fleet operators. With a reliable Cummins turbo diesel engine, smooth-shifting Allison transmission, and robust air brakes, this 71-passenger unit is built to last and deliver consistent performance on daily routes or long hauls.

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Mileage 104900
Passengers 71
Year 2015
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2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

24488

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 Handicap Bus combines durability, comfort, and accessibility. Powered by a 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine and equipped with an Allison automatic transmission, it’s built for reliability. With seating for 34 passengers, dual A/C, air brakes, rear air ride suspension, and a rear wheelchair lift, it’s a ready-to-roll solution for schools or organizations needing accessible transport.

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Mileage 167600
Passengers 34
Year 2014
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2011 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

24487

The 2011 Freightliner Thomas School Bus offers a dependable 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine and smooth Allison automatic transmission. With air brakes and rear air ride suspension, it ensures a comfortable and controlled ride for up to 71 passengers—ideal for school districts or group transportation providers looking for value and performance.

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Mileage 179900
Passengers 71
Year 2011
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2016 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

24486

This 2016 Bluebird Vision School Bus delivers powerful and efficient performance with a 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine and reliable Allison automatic transmission. Designed for maximum comfort, it features triple air conditioning zones and air-powered controls, making it a premium choice for high-capacity student transportation.

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Mileage 93200
Passengers 71
Year 2016
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2017 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

24485

This 2017 Bluebird Vision School Bus offers dependable performance with its low-mileage Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel engine and freshly installed front and rear A/C units. Built for long-term reliability and comfort, it’s ideal for school districts seeking high-capacity and well-maintained transport.

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Mileage 34200
Passengers 71
Year 2017
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2016 International IC School Bus

24484

This 2016 International IC Handicap Bus delivers safe and efficient transport with its reliable Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel engine and only 116k miles. Ideal for schools or community organizations, it features dual A/C units, hydraulic brakes, and full wheelchair accessibility for up to 4 positions.

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Mileage 116200
Passengers 13
Year 2016
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2016 International IC School Bus

24483

This 2016 IC School Bus is wheelchair-accessible and powered by a dependable Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel engine with just 122k miles. Equipped with front and rear A/C, hydraulic brakes, and an Allison automatic transmission, it’s ideal for special needs transportation or community mobility services.

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Mileage 122600
Passengers 13
Year 2016
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4 Matching Unit Package 2012 Blue Bird

24482

Four Matching 2012 Blue Bird Vision 72 Passenger Full Size Yellow School Buses for one low price. All four buses are one owner vehicles from the same school fleet operator. All have been inspected and fleet maintained since new. All buses are powered by a Cummins Diesel engine paired with an Allison automatic transmission. 

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Mileage 150000
Passengers 72
Year 2012
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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.

Depending on your route, budget, and driver licensing situation, one of these categories may be a better match than a standard school bus.

Mini Buses

Best for: churches, nonprofits, and daycares needing 10–25 passenger capacity without a CDL. Mini buses typically stay under the 26,001 lb GVWR threshold and offer easier parking than a full-size Type C.

Shuttle Buses

Best for: shuttle and charter operators who want passenger-friendly interiors without school bus title restrictions. Shuttle buses often carry transit-style seating and can be operated without an S endorsement.

Coach Buses

Best for: charter operators and large school districts running long routes or overnight trips. Coaches offer restroom facilities, reclining seats, and luggage bays that a standard Type C school bus doesn't provide.

Skoolie Conversions

Best for: conversion buyers who want a head start — browse school buses already converted to living or travel vehicles, saving the demo and framing work.

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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