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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2014 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

27933

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas School Bus is a fleet-ready solution for private student transportation, capable of carrying up to 72 passengers comfortably. With its dependable Cummins engine and AUTO/AIR transmission, this bus ensures smooth and efficient journeys, making it an excellent choice for schools or organizations looking to elevate their transportation services.


Freightliner is renowned for crafting durable and high-performance vehicles, providing peace of mind to buyers who value safety and reliability. This commitment to quality ensures that choosing a Freightliner bus offers long-term value and dependable service.

Contact for Price
Mileage 128,000
Passengers 72
Year 2014

2017 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

27932

The 2017 Freightliner Thomas School Bus is a fleet-ready bus tailored to meet the demands of private student transportation and university campus mobility. With a capacity of 28 passengers and 1 wheelchair spot, alongside a dependable Cummins engine and AUTO/AIR transmission, this ADA-compliant vehicle ensures efficient and reliable student movement, making it an ideal choice for academic institutions focused on accessibility and daily transportation needs.


Freightliner is celebrated for its robust engineering and commitment to quality, providing peace of mind to buyers looking for long-term value and minimal maintenance burdens. Known for producing durable and reliable vehicles, Freightliner ensures that your investment will support your transportation needs with efficiency and dependability, aligning perfectly with the operational goals of educational institutions.

Contact for Price
Mileage 187,000
Passengers 28
Year 2017

2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

27806

The 2022 Blue Bird Vision is powered by a Cummins B6.7/220 HP diesel engine and features an Allison PTS 2500 transmission, ensuring smooth and reliable transportation. With ample headroom and well-designed insulation, this bus provides comfort for up to 72 passengers while on the road.

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Passengers 72
Year 2022

2019 Blue Bird Vision 72P

27803

The 2019 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is a fleet-ready powerhouse designed for private student transportation, featuring a robust 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine and Allison Transmission. With a spacious capacity for up to 72 passengers, this bus ensures reliable and comfortable transit, making it an ideal choice for schools and organizations seeking dependable and efficient transportation solutions.

 

Blue Bird is renowned for its dedication to safety and durability, providing peace of mind to buyers who prioritize long-term investments in their transportation fleet. With a history of crafting high-quality buses, Blue Bird guarantees that each vehicle is built to withstand the test of time and adapt to diverse transportation needs, offering a practical and future-proof investment.

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Mileage 60,000
Passengers 72
Year 2019

2021 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

27802

The 2021 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is a fleet-ready solution perfect for private student transportation. Equipped with a robust 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine and an Allison Transmission, this bus efficiently accommodates up to 72 passengers, making it ideal for large groups seeking reliable and comfortable travel.


Blue Bird is a trusted name in the industry, renowned for their commitment to safety and durability. With a long-standing reputation for quality, Blue Bird ensures that your investment is not only dependable but also designed to withstand the demands of daily use, providing peace of mind for operators and passengers alike.

Contact for Price
Passengers 72
Year 2021

2009 Blue Bird Dog Nose School Bus

27801

The 2009 Blue Bird School Buses is a fleet-ready addition for export buyers looking to expand transportation options in developing markets. With a seating capacity of 71, automatic transmission, and a strong engine with cruise control, this bus ensures reliable performance, making it an affordable choice for those seeking surplus U.S. buses for resale or fleet expansion.


Blue Bird is renowned for crafting durable and dependable school buses, known for their robust construction and longevity. This reputation provides peace of mind to buyers, ensuring they invest in a vehicle that withstands daily demands, making it a trusted choice worldwide for fleet expansion or refurbishment.

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Mileage 160,000
Passengers 71
Year 2009

2009 Thomas Flat Nose School Bus

27798

The 2009 Thomas School Bus is a cost-effective solution for churches and ministries looking to expand their fleet-ready group transportation options. With a seating capacity of 72 passengers and powered by a reliable Cummins engine, this vehicle is perfectly suited for transporting youth groups, seniors, and congregants to various church activities such as retreats and outreach events.


Thomas Built Buses is renowned for their commitment to safety and durability, making them a trusted name in the school bus industry. This reputation ensures mechanical reliability and longevity, providing peace of mind for organizations that prioritize dependable transportation without exceeding their budget.

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Mileage 135,000
Passengers 72
Year 2009

1997 Blue Bird TCFE84

27775

Western bus. 

good condition,drop down chains

Contact for Price
Mileage 288,279
Passengers 84
Year 1997

2009 Thomas Flat Nose School Bus

27745

The 2009 Thomas School Bus is a fleet-ready option for churches and ministries looking for affordable group transportation. With seating for 72 passengers and powered by a reliable Cummins engine, this bus is perfect for transporting youth groups and congregation members to services, camps, and outreach events. Its AUTO/AIR transmission ensures a smooth ride, making it a cost-effective choice for expanding ministry mobility. Thomas Built Buses is renowned for their commitment to safety and durability, offering peace of mind to buyers prioritizing mechanical reliability. Their buses are designed to withstand frequent use, meeting the high standards necessary for safe and efficient group transportation, ensuring that each vehicle, like this 2009 model, serves as a dependable addition to any fleet.

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Mileage 131,000
Passengers 72
Year 2009

2008 International CRP School Bus

27568

The 2008 International CRP School Bus are a fleet-ready option for private student transportation services looking to enhance their operations. With a spacious capacity of 74 passengers and an automatic transmission, these buses are perfect for daily school routes or potential shuttle conversion projects. The buses have been PM maintained and feature a workable A/C, ensuring reliable and comfortable transport for students.


International is known for producing durable and dependable vehicles, which translates to long-term value and performance for buyers. Their commitment to quality and safety standards provides peace of mind, making these buses a smart investment for any student transportation service.

Contact for Price
Mileage 204,168
Passengers 74
Year 2008

2009 Thomas Flat Nose School Bus

27564

The 2009 Thomas Flat Nose School Bus is a fleet-ready vehicle designed to meet the transportation needs of churches and ministries. With seating for 72 passengers, it provides a cost-effective solution for transporting youth groups and congregation members to various church activities, making it an excellent choice for those looking to replace aging vans or expand their mobility. Powered by a dependable Cummins engine and featuring an AUTO/AIR transmission, this bus ensures a smooth and reliable journey for all passengers.


Thomas Built Buses is celebrated for its dedication to safety and durability, offering peace of mind to buyers who prioritize mechanical reliability and low-cost units. Known for producing buses that stand the test of time, Thomas delivers a product that aligns perfectly with the needs of churches and ministries, ensuring every trip is safe and efficient.

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Mileage 149,000
Passengers 72
Year 2009

2014 International RE 84P

27527

2 matching Western units ready for immediate shipping. 

School bus in good condition, underbus storage, original owners, have all service paperwork.

 

 

Contact for Price
Mileage 46,218
Passengers 84
Year 2014

2006 International Ic School Bus

27479

Deliver reliable, comfortable, and efficient school transport with this 2006 International IC School Bus. Outfitted with brand new tires and a new A/C compressor, this bus is fleet-ready and designed to support your daily transportation needs. The robust International chassis provides exceptional dependability, making it ideal for public and private schools, employee shuttles, daycare groups, summer camps, and fleet operators seeking low total cost of ownership (TCO). Ice-cold air conditioning ensures a comfortable ride for students, children, or adult passengers, while LED amber and stop lights offer increased visibility and enhanced safety for every route. With its proven track record and reliable performance, this school bus is an outstanding choice for dependable fleet expansion or replacement.

International is a trusted leader in school and commercial transport vehicles, renowned for their durable engineering and reliable chassis. Their focus on quality and longevity makes them a preferred choice for demanding fleet applications.

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Mileage 196,397
Passengers 0
Year 2006

2003 Thomas Built Buses Saf T-Liner School Bus

27478

Experience reliable, fleet-ready school transport with this 2003 Thomas Saf T-Liner, designed to serve the needs of public and private schools, employee transport, day/summer camps, daycare, and fleet operators. With a seating capacity for up to 72 passengers, this bus is perfectly suited for efficiently moving large groups of students, children, or employees. The recently installed new motor and transmission ensure a dependable, low TCO (total cost of ownership) and minimize downtime for your operation. For enhanced comfort in all climates, the bus features a new A/C compressor and delivers consistently cold air, creating an ideal environment for riders on every trip. Safety and performance are maximized with new Goodyear tires and new batteries, while the robust Thomas chassis is recognized for its reliability and longevity, making this vehicle an excellent addition to any fleet.

Thomas is a trusted name in school transportation, known for building durable, high-performance buses. The brand’s commitment to safety and value makes this an outstanding choice for any organization seeking dependable fleet solutions.

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Mileage 224,104
Passengers 72
Year 2003

2012 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

27473

The 2012 Freightliner Thomas is a fleet-ready bus perfectly suited for private student transportation, offering seating for up to 78 passengers. With its dependable Cummins engine and AUTO/AIR transmission, this bus ensures smooth and efficient rides, making it an excellent choice for expanding your transportation services. Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability, providing vehicles that consistently deliver outstanding performance. This reputation assures buyers of a reliable investment, offering peace of mind for both operators and passengers alike.

Contact for Price
Mileage 105,000
Passengers 78
Year 2012

2021 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

27471

Step up your school transport fleet with the 2021 Bluebird Vision, designed for dependable performance and rider comfort. This robust 28-passenger school bus delivers reliability and efficiency, making it an ideal solution for public and private schools, employee shuttles, camps, and daycare centers. Powered by a 6.8L gasoline engine and featuring a proven hydraulic brake system, the Vision is engineered for smooth, confident operation and low total cost of ownership (TCO). With miles, this bus is ready to serve your organization for years to come, whether transporting students, staff, or work crews.

Bluebird is renowned for its commitment to safety, durability, and ease of maintenance, making it a top choice for fleet buyers and school districts. The Vision model upholds this legacy with a reliable chassis and thoughtful engineering, ensuring peace of mind on every route.

Contact for Price
Mileage 60,000
Passengers 28
Year 2021

2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

27470

The 2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is a reliable transportation option with a seating capacity of 47 passengers. This bus features a powerful 6.8 gasoline engine, making it an excellent choice for long-distance travel, ensuring comfort and safety for all riders.

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Mileage 36,000
Passengers 47
Year 2022

2007 International IC School Bus

27466

Discover the reliable 2007 International IC, featuring a brand new A/C compressor and tires, ensuring a smooth ride for all passengers. Ideal for educational or group transport.

Contact for Price
Mileage 165,931
Year 2007

2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus

27432

The 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus is a fleet-ready vehicle that offers an excellent opportunity for export buyers seeking reliable transportation solutions at a low cost. With a robust CAT C7 7.2L turbo diesel engine and an Allison automatic transmission, this bus is perfect for shuttle conversion or continued fleet use, capable of safely transporting up to 40 passengers. This model is ideal for developing markets where dependable and affordable school buses are in high demand.


Thomas Built Buses is renowned for their commitment to durability and safety, crafting vehicles that withstand the rigors of daily use. This reputation ensures that buyers can trust in the longevity and performance of their investment, making it a smart choice for those seeking surplus U.S. buses for profitable resale or fleet expansion.

Contact for Price
Mileage 107,000
Passengers 40
Year 2005

2012 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus

27431

The 2012 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus is a spacious and fleet-ready option designed to accommodate up to 84 passengers, making it an excellent choice for private student transportation services. Featuring a robust Cummins ISB 6.7L engine and a reliable Allison automatic transmission, this bus promises dependable performance for daily school routes or potential shuttle conversion projects.


Thomas Built Buses is renowned for their dedication to crafting durable and safe vehicles, providing peace of mind for both operators and passengers. Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures that buyers can trust in the longevity and reliability of their investment, making it a smart choice for those looking to expand or upgrade their transportation fleets.

Contact for Price
Mileage 167,415
Passengers 84
Year 2012

2016 Ford E450 Girardin Mini School Bus

27429

The 2016 Ford E450 Girardin Mini School Bus is a fleet-ready vehicle tailored for private student transportation, comfortably accommodating 20 passengers. Equipped with a reliable Triton 6.8 Liter V10 Gas Engine and an automatic transmission, this Type-A school bus ensures a smooth ride, while features like power/heated mirrors enhance driver convenience and safety.


Ford's longstanding reputation for safety and durability makes the Girardin an excellent investment for those in educational transport. Known for building vehicles that offer longevity and dependability, choosing a Ford bus provides peace of mind for operators responsible for student safety.

Contact for Price
Mileage 69,183
Passengers 20
Year 2016

2013 International IC CE 200 ADA School Bus

27416

The 2013 International IC CE200 is a fleet-ready school bus perfect for private student transportation needs. It comfortably seats up to 25 passengers and includes wheelchair accessibility, making it an ideal choice for services requiring ADA compliance or those considering shuttle conversion projects. Powered by a dependable MAXX7 diesel engine with automatic transmission, this bus ensures smooth and efficient operation.


International is a trusted name in the transportation industry, renowned for producing vehicles that prioritize durability and safety. Buyers can feel confident in their purchase, knowing that International's commitment to quality delivers peace of mind for those transporting students.

Contact for Price
Mileage 155,000
Passengers 25
Year 2013

2010 Ford Bantam Collins ADA Mini School Bus

27415

The 2010 Ford Bantam Collins is a fleet-ready solution for churches and ministries aiming to provide affordable, mission-driven transportation for their congregants. With seating for up to 21 passengers and ADA compliance through its wheelchair accessibility, this bus is the ideal choice for transporting youth groups, seniors, and congregation members to services, retreats, and outreach events, fitting perfectly within a tight budget range.


Ford's reputation for producing reliable and durable vehicles ensures peace of mind for any organization prioritizing safety and longevity. Known for their efficient diesel engines, Ford vehicles, like the Bantam Collins, offer consistent performance and ease of use, making them a trusted option for volunteer drivers and ensuring that transportation needs are met seamlessly.

Contact for Price
Mileage 160,000
Passengers 21
Year 2010

2021 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

27408

The 2021 Blue Bird Vision is a fleet-ready school bus, perfect for private student transportation services. With seating for up to 53 passengers and powered by a robust Cummins 6.7L diesel engine, this bus delivers efficiency and reliability, making it an excellent choice for expanding school district fleets.


Blue Bird is renowned for its dedication to safety and durability, ensuring that your investment remains secure and sound over time. With a strong legacy of producing long-lasting school buses, Blue Bird continues to provide peace of mind to buyers who prioritize these essential attributes in their transportation solutions.

Contact for Price
Mileage 23,000
Passengers 53
Year 2021
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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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