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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2013 International CE

50006

The 2013 International CE NJ 54 School Bus is a robust and reliable vehicle, perfect for transporting large groups with ease. Designed to accommodate 54 passengers, this yellow school bus is ideal for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs seeking a dependable 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. Recently retired from daily fleet use, this bus is now available for purchase, making it a valuable investment for educational institutions and transport providers.

 

International is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability in the bus manufacturing industry. The CE model stands out with its robust construction and efficient design, making it a preferred choice for school transportation across the nation.

$14,500
Mileage 143,638
Passengers 54
Year 2013

2022 Ford E450 Minotour School Bus

48891

Discover the 2022 Ford E-450 Thomas Built Bus, a reliable and efficient choice for your fleet needs. Powered by a durable diesel engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, this bus offers smooth and dependable performance ideal for daily operations. With seating for 14 passengers, it perfectly balances capacity and maneuverability, making it suitable for shuttle services, corporate transport, or specialized group travel. The vehicle features ADA compliance, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all passengers. Having logged 72,000 miles, this bus is road-proven and ready to deliver consistent service. Built on the trusted Ford E-450 chassis and crafted by Thomas Built Buses, it combines quality engineering with practical design to support your transportation demands with confidence.

$80,000
Mileage 72,000
Passengers 14
Year 2022

2011 Freightliner C2 School Bus

48169

Discover the exceptional capability of the 2011 Freightliner C2 School Bus, designed for safe, efficient school transport and large group mobility. With seating for up to 72 passengers across 12 rows, this bus is ideal for public and private schools, employee shuttles, day/summer camps, daycare centers, and fleet buyers who demand reliable, fleet-ready vehicles. Powered by a Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel inline 6-cylinder engine paired to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, the C2 delivers dependable performance and robust torque for both urban and rural routes. Full drum air brakes ensure confident stopping power, while the rust-free Florida history supports long-term durability and a low total cost of ownership (TCO). The Freightliner C2 features a proven chassis, making it a smart investment for fleet operators seeking reliability and ease of maintenance.

Freightliner is renowned for its engineering excellence and commitment to commercial vehicle reliability. The C2 model stands out for its robust construction and long-lasting dependability in demanding fleet applications.

$22,000
Passengers 72
Year 2011

2020 Blue Bird Bluebird School Bus

48167

Experience proven reliability and exceptional value with this 2020 Bluebird 65-passenger school bus, engineered for versatile school transport and large group mobility. Powered by a robust 6.8L V10 gasoline engine paired with a smooth automatic transmission, this bus delivers fleet-ready performance and a low total cost of ownership (TCO) for operators. With miles, it is primed for daily routes, employee shuttles, summer camps, daycare operations, or export needs. The clean, well-maintained interior and durable chassis ensure dependable service for students, adults, and employees alike. Bluebird is renowned for building school buses that emphasize safety, reliability, and longevity, making it a preferred choice for fleet buyers and school transport professionals. Designed to meet the demands of public and private schools, agricultural crews, or tech/trade institutions, this bus offers comfort, capacity, and confidence every mile.

Bluebird is an industry leader known for its commitment to safety and quality. Their buses are trusted by school districts and fleet operators nationwide.

$45,000
Mileage 56,000
Passengers 65
Year 2020

2015 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

48060

Discover unmatched versatility and efficiency with the 2015 Blue Bird Vision Mini Bus—an urban-friendly solution perfect for small group transportation. Equipped with a robust Cummins 6.7L Red Engine Turbo Diesel and smooth automatic Allison transmission, this mini bus delivers reliable performance for your shuttle fleet, retirement community, hospital system, or hospitality operation. With seating for up to 36 passengers, it’s designed to maximize capacity while remaining highly maneuverable, making navigation through city streets and tight spaces effortless.

The Vision’s full air brakes provide responsive stopping power, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride for airplane travelers, tourists, hotel guests, community residents, retirees, employees, college students, and hospital guests. Blue Bird is renowned for its commitment to durability and innovative transit solutions, making it a trusted choice for professional operators. Experience the proven quality and dependability of Blue Bird, a brand dedicated to enhancing group mobility.

$25,000
Passengers 36
Year 2015

2014 Blue Bird Vision School Bus ADA

48059

The 2014 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is a fleet-ready solution designed for schools, employee transport, day camps, and fleet operators seeking reliable school transport with low TCO. With a dependable Cummins turbo diesel inline 6-cylinder engine and a smooth automatic transmission, this bus offers robust performance ideal for daily routes or long-distance transfers. The 48-passenger capacity ensures ample space for students, employees, or jobsite crews, making it a versatile choice for a variety of transport needs. The large AC system (conditioning status noted in technical data) enhances passenger comfort during warm weather, while full drum air brakes provide confident, reliable stopping power on every trip. The Blue Bird brand is known for durability and longevity, making it a trusted name among fleet buyers. Blue Bird’s reputation for innovation and safety ensures peace of mind for operators and passengers alike.

$25,000
Passengers 48
Year 2014

2014 International CE Series

48058

This 2014 International CE Series school bus seats up to 35 passengers and has 157,000 miles on it. A dependable option for school districts, churches, daycares, or organizations needing reliable group transportation at an affordable price point.

$13,000
Mileage 157,000
Passengers 35
Year 2014

2016 Thomas Built Re

46997

Experience dependable school transport with this 2016 Thomas S RE School Bus, engineered for durability, comfort, and safety. With seating for up to 72 passengers and powered by a robust 8.3L diesel engine, this fleet-ready bus is designed to serve public and private schools, employee transport, daycares, camps, and more. The reliable chassis and proven Thomas construction ensure low TCO and minimal downtime, making it an ideal solution for fleet buyers and school bus operators seeking lasting value and reliability.

Thomas is a leading name in school transportation, renowned for build quality and innovative safety features. With a legacy of excellence, Thomas buses are trusted by fleet operators nationwide for their dependability and performance.

$56,000
Mileage 78,000
Passengers 72
Year 2016

2021 Blue Bird Vision 71P Gasoline

46799

2021 Blue Bird Vision 71-Passenger gasoline powered School Bus with only 78,000 miles. This is a one owner bus that was recently retired from school bus fleet use. 

$70,000
Mileage 78,000
Passengers 71
Year 2021

2015 Chevrolet Microbird School Bus

39863

Experience exceptional school transport and shuttle performance with the 2015 Chevy Microbird MFSAB. This fleet-ready bus is designed to deliver reliability, comfort, and efficiency for a variety of organizations including public and private schools, daycare centers, employee transport, and summer camps. Its robust 6L V8 engine paired with hydraulic brakes ensures powerful performance and dependable stopping power, so you can confidently transport up to 25 passengers—students, employees, or jobsite crews—with ease. With miles, this well-maintained vehicle provides a low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it a smart investment for growing fleets.

The Chevy brand is renowned for durability and real-world dependability, supporting your organization’s daily needs. Microbird buses offer quality construction and a comfortable ride for every passenger.

$55,000
Mileage 24,000
Passengers 25
Year 2015

2020 Chevrolet Girardin

39195

Discover the versatility and durability of the 2020 Chevrolet GIRARDIN EXPRESS. Designed to meet the diverse needs of private schools, churches, and transportation services, this activity bus offers a reliable solution for team transport and various other applications. Whether you’re transporting students, employees, or athletes, the Chevrolet GIRARDIN ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. Its robust Gas V8 6.0L engine paired with an automatic transmission guarantees powerful performance under any condition. The vehicle's FLEX FUEL capability adds to its adaptability, making it a perfect fit for different environments and uses.

Chevrolet, a brand synonymous with innovation and trust, continues to lead the way in automotive excellence. This GIRARDIN model exemplifies Chevrolet's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

$70,000
Mileage 71,000
Passengers 29
Year 2020

2022 Blue Bird Vision 77P Gasoline

36006

2022 Blue Bird Vision 77-Passenger Gasoline Powered yellow School Bus with only 55,000 miles. This unit has hydraulic brakes and the 6.8L Gasoline V8. A standout in school transport solutions, offering a seamless blend of safety and efficiency for all your fleet-ready needs. With a robust and reliable chassis, this 77-passenger school bus ensures dependable service for public and private schools, as well as employee transport. Its powerful 6.8 Gas engine and automatic transmission promise a smooth ride, while its vibrant yellow exterior makes it easily recognizable on the road. 

Blue Bird is renowned for its commitment to safety, innovation, and durability. With a legacy of excellence in the transportation industry, they continue to set the standard for quality and reliability.

$78,000
Mileage 55,000
Passengers 77
Year 2022

2017 Thomas C2 Propane 65P

24600

This 2017 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 bus features a propane-powered 8.0L engine, air brakes, and seating for 65 passengers. With low mileage and Iowa code pre-seat belt compliance, it's a clean and reliable school or group transport solution.

$39,000
Mileage 32,000
Passengers 65
Year 2017

2025 Ford E450 Collins 14 Passenger

23593

The 2025 Ford E450 Collins Mini School Bus with seating for 14 passengers. This bus is powered by a reliable V8 gasoline engine and has an automatic transmission. With amenities such as air conditioning and hydraulic brakes, this minibus is ideal for student transportation.

$132,000
Mileage 1,000
Passengers 14
Year 2025

2024 Chevrolet Magellan ADA School Bus

20458

The 2024 Chevrolet Magellan is a versatile ADA compliant school bus accommodating 18 passengers and 1 wheelchair user. New bus with delivery miles only. It features advanced safety specifications including 3-point seat belts and a spacious interior with large windows, making it ideal for school transport. This bus is built to Washington State standards, ensuring reliability in various transportation scenarios.

$138,000
Mileage 1,500
Passengers 18
Year 2024

2015 Blue Bird Propane Bus

16209

This 2015 Blue Bird Vision is a dependable school bus with a seating capacity of 77 passengers plus the driver. Equipped with a 6.8L propane engine, this bus offers efficient travel for student transportation, educational field trips and community shuttles. Its versatile design makes it a great choice for anyone looking to buy a bus with reliability and comfort.

$20,000
Mileage 140,000
Passengers 77
Year 2015

2006 International RE 300 School Bus

10728

The 2006 International RE 300 is a dependable vehicle built for large-group transport, offering a rear-engine design and ample seating capacity. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a pre-owned bus that delivers both durability and comfort.

$0
Passengers 52
Year 2006

10 Bus Package Deal 2011 Blue Bird Visions

10239

The 2011 Blue Bird Vision School Buses offer a reliable and efficient solution for large-scale student transportation needs. This bulk lot includes 10 buses, each designed to accommodate 72 passengers, making them perfect for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a secure and efficient fleet. Powered by Cummins Diesel engines and equipped with Allison Automatic transmissions, these buses ensure smooth and dependable performance for daily transport needs. Their durable construction and comfortable seating make them an excellent choice for community outreach programs and summer camps looking for a reliable fleet of school buses.

$129,000
Mileage 125,000
Passengers 72
Year 2011

2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

1000911

The 2022 Blue Bird VISION School Bus stands out as a fleet-ready solution built for the demands of reliable school transport. With just miles, this modern bus is engineered for safety, durability, and dependable daily performance, making it ideal for public and private schools, daycare providers, employee shuttles, and fleet operators. The VISION’s robust, reliable chassis ensures low TCO by minimizing downtime and maintenance costs, while its spacious interior guarantees a comfortable and secure ride for students, children, and adult riders alike. Whether you’re expanding your fleet or replacing older vehicles, this Blue Bird bus offers the versatility and proven safety you expect from a leading brand in school transportation.

Blue Bird is renowned for engineering buses that deliver long-term value and exceptional reliability. Their commitment to passenger safety and innovative design makes Blue Bird a trusted choice for fleet buyers worldwide.

Contact for Price

2020 Temsa Ts 35 Motorcoach School Bus

1000875

Experience fleet-ready performance and modern comfort with the 2020 TEMSA TS 35 Motorcoach, designed for versatile school transport, employee shuttles, and group travel. This coach features seating for up to 40 passengers, making it a perfect solution for public and private schools, summer camps, and corporate fleets. With a reliable automatic transmission and robust diesel powertrain, the TS 35 delivers low TCO and dependable service for years to come. Riders benefit from onboard 110V outlets at every seat, a full lavatory, and an advanced REI audio/video system with four monitors to keep everyone engaged and comfortable on every journey. Alcoa rims add style and durability, while the integrated microphone system ensures clear communication for drivers and guides.

TEMSA is renowned for engineering reliable chassis and modern motorcoaches built for safety and efficiency. The 2020 TS 35 upholds this tradition, combining innovative features with proven reliability for demanding fleet operators.

Contact for Price
Mileage 191,000
Passengers 40
Year 2020

2022 Chevrolet Thomas Minotour

1000862

Elevate your fleet with the 2022 Chevrolet Express Thomas Minotour Shuttle Bus, engineered for versatility and safety in school transport and employee shuttling. With seating for up to 14 passengers, this fleet-ready minibus is ideal for public and private schools, daycare centers, camps, and employee transport, delivering comfort and peace of mind for riders of all ages. Built on Chevrolet's reliable chassis and powered by a robust 6.6L V8 gasoline engine, the Minotour is designed to provide a low total cost of ownership (TCO) and dependable performance on every route.

Chevrolet is renowned for its durability and trusted engineering, making it a preferred choice for school and commercial fleets. The Thomas Built Buses body ensures superior safety and long-lasting value for transportation professionals.

Contact for Price

2012 Freightliner Saf-T-Liner School Bus

1000839

Maximize your fleet’s efficiency and reliability with the 2012 Freightliner SAF-T-LINER School Bus, purpose-built for large group transport and ideal for school districts, camps, employee shuttles, and fleet operators. This fleet-ready vehicle features a robust 6.7L Cummins diesel engine paired with an automatic transmission, ensuring dependable power and low total cost of ownership (TCO) for your organization. With a spacious 84-passenger capacity, this bus is designed to safely accommodate students, employees, or camp attendees, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of transport needs.

The Freightliner brand is renowned for its reliable chassis and commitment to safety, providing peace of mind for operators and riders alike. Trusted by commercial fleet buyers and school transport professionals nationwide, Freightliner delivers long-lasting value and top-tier performance.

Contact for Price

2004 Blue Bird All American School Bus

1000838

Enhance your school transport or employee shuttle operations with this fleet-ready 2004 Bluebird All American School Bus, engineered for dependable performance and low TCO. Featuring the robust Caterpillar C-7 engine and a smooth-shifting Allison automatic transmission, this bus is designed to deliver reliability on every route, whether transporting students, staff, or crew. With miles, this bus remains roadworthy and has been regularly serviced by a professional fleet contractor, ensuring it is ready for immediate deployment in your fleet operations.

Bluebird is renowned for building durable, reliable chassis and safe vehicles that meet the rigorous standards of public and private school transport, employee transit, and group mobility. The All American model stands out for its solid construction and trusted engineering, making it an ideal choice for fleet buyers and operators prioritizing safety and operational efficiency.

Contact for Price

2010 Chevrolet Express Thomas School Bus

1000800

Discover the 2010 Chevrolet Express Thomas School Bus, expertly engineered for fleet-ready performance in school transport, employee shuttle, and group transit applications. Its robust Chevrolet 6.0 Liter Vortec V8 engine delivers dependable power, while the proven automatic transmission ensures smooth and reliable operation for every route. With a 30-passenger capacity, this bus is ideal for transporting students, employees, or camp participants efficiently and comfortably. The spacious Thomas Built Buses body offers a generous interior height of 6 feet, making boarding and moving inside easy for both children and adults. Seat belts are equipped for added safety, supporting a secure and compliant fleet experience. With 221,000 miles, this bus is ready to deliver low TCO and lasting reliability to your operation. The Chevrolet Express platform is recognized for its durable, reliable chassis and ease of maintenance, making it a top choice for fleet operators. Thomas Built Buses is synonymous with quality construction and long-term value, ensuring your investment supports your organization's goals for years to come.

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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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