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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2018 Thomas C2 School Bus

27269

The 2018 Thomas C2 School Bus is a fleet-ready choice for private student transportation services, crafted to accommodate 47 passengers with ease. Equipped with rear air conditioning and integrated child seats in the first two rows, this bus ensures a comfortable and secure journey, making it a smart investment for school transport operators.


Thomas Built Buses is renowned for its dedication to safety and durability, offering buses with robust construction and reliable Cummins engines. These attributes provide operators with long-term reliability and performance, essential for maintaining a dependable private student transportation service.

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Mileage 93,500
Passengers 47
Year 2018

2016 Thomas C2 School Bus

27268

The 2016 Thomas C2 School Bus is a reliable and fleet-ready option for private student transportation providers seeking a dependable vehicle. With a seating capacity for 47 passengers and integrated child seating in the first two rows, this bus ensures safety and comfort for young riders. Its Cummins engine paired with an automatic transmission offers a smooth driving experience, making it an excellent choice for daily school routes or shuttle conversion projects.


Thomas Built Buses, a trusted name in the industry, is renowned for its commitment to safety and durability. Their buses are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, providing peace of mind to operators who prioritize reliability and longevity. Choosing a Thomas bus means investing in a vehicle that is built to last, ensuring your transportation needs are met with confidence.

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Mileage 112,000
Passengers 47
Year 2016

2020 International IC CE School Bus

27266

The 2020 International IC CE School Bus is a fleet-ready option tailored for schools seeking safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solutions. With a capacity of 72 passengers and powered by a dependable Cummins diesel engine, this bus is perfect for daily routes and extracurricular activities, ensuring schools can maintain regulatory compliance and reduce dependency on rentals.


International is renowned for crafting durable and reliable school buses, providing peace of mind to buyers who prioritize mechanical reliability and safety. Their commitment to quality ensures each bus can withstand rigorous use, making them a trusted choice for educational institutions nationwide.

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Mileage 68,340
Passengers 72
Year 2020

2020 International IC CE School Bus

27254

The 2020 International IC CE School Bus is a robust and fleet-ready vehicle, perfect for student transportation needs. With a diesel engine and an automatic transmission, it offers a reliable and efficient solution for safely transporting up to 72 passengers.


International is a renowned leader in the bus manufacturing industry, celebrated for its commitment to safety and durability. Their buses are designed to withstand daily use, ensuring long-term performance and giving buyers peace of mind with a solid return on investment.

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Mileage 101,290
Passengers 72
Year 2020

2020 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

27253
The 2020 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a robust school bus equipped with a 6.7L diesel engine and an automatic transmission for smooth operation. Its bright yellow exterior ensures high visibility, making it an excellent choice for student transportation.
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Mileage 70,152
Passengers 0
Year 2020

2020 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

27252
The 2020 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a reliable school bus featuring a powerful 6.7L diesel engine and an automatic transmission. With a striking yellow exterior, this bus is perfect for transporting children safely and comfortably.
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Mileage 62,997
Passengers 0
Year 2020

2022 Freightliner C2 School Bus

27242

The 2022 Freightliner C2 School Bus is a spacious bus that accommodates up to 72 passengers, making it ideal for large groups. Its reliable Cummins engine provides efficient performance, ensuring your journeys are both powerful and smooth while offering essential features like Air Brake systems.

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Mileage 28,800
Passengers 72
Year 2022

2025 Collins DH500

27170

The 2025 Collins DH500 is an excellent choice for private student transportation services, offering a spacious interior that seats up to 29 passengers comfortably. This fleet-ready vehicle prioritizes safety with features such as Exterior LED Lights and Remote/Heated Mirrors, making it a reliable option for smooth and secure journeys.


Collins is renowned in the bus manufacturing industry for its commitment to quality and innovation. Their durable and efficient vehicles provide dependable transportation solutions, making Collins a trusted brand for those seeking a functional and reliable shuttle conversion.

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Mileage 0
Passengers 29
Year 2025

2018 Ford Transit 350 Micro Bird Mini School Bus

27146

The 2018 Ford Micro Bird Mini School Bus is a fleet-ready solution designed for private student transportation, boasting a low mileage of just 9,000 miles. Equipped with a powerful 3.7L V6 engine and an automatic transmission, this 24-passenger minibus is perfect for those seeking a reliable vehicle to enhance their transportation services.


Ford is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability, ensuring that each vehicle can withstand the demands of daily use. This reputation for excellence assures buyers of the Micro Bird's longevity and reliable performance, making it a smart investment for any transportation fleet.

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Mileage 9,000
Passengers 24
Year 2018

2016 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

27088

The 2016 Blue Bird Vision is a fleet-ready school bus perfect for public and private schools aiming to enhance their student transportation services. With its 6.8L propane engine and seating for 36 passengers, this bus offers a cost-effective solution for daily routes and extracurricular activities, aligning with the budgetary needs of school districts and private institutions.


Blue Bird is a highly respected name in the school bus industry, renowned for its commitment to safety and durability. Their buses consistently meet rigorous standards, providing buyers with a reliable and environmentally friendly vehicle capable of withstanding the demands of daily use while ensuring compliance with school transportation regulations.

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Mileage 88,000
Passengers 36
Year 2016

2025 Chevrolet DH500 Collins School Bus

27053

The 2025 Chevrolet DH500 is a reliable vehicle built on a Collins chassis, designed for various transportation applications. Known for its durability and versatility, it represents a solid choice for those in need of a dependable bus.

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Mileage 0
Passengers 0
Year 2025

2025 Collins DH500 Mini School Bus

27046
The 2025 Collins DH500 is a versatile bus designed to meet various group transportation needs, with multiple units available for flexibility. Known for its robust construction and reliability, it presents an excellent option for those seeking a dependable bus.
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Mileage 1,565
Passengers 0
Year 2025

2026 Thomas Built Buses Freightliner C2 School Bus

27037

Meet the 2026 Thomas Freightliner C2, a fleet-ready school bus engineered for maximum reliability, safety, and passenger comfort. With an impressive 77-passenger capacity, this bus is ideally suited for public and private schools, employee shuttles, day and summer camps, daycare transport, and fleet operators seeking dependable, large-capacity school transport solutions. Powered by a highly respected Cummins engine paired with an automatic transmission, the C2 delivers seamless performance and low total cost of ownership, making it a smart investment for any fleet. The vibrant yellow exterior enhances road visibility and safety, while hydraulic brakes provide confident stopping power. With just 860 miles, this bus offers years of dependable service ahead, making it perfect for expanding or upgrading your fleet with a reliable chassis that’s ready for immediate operation.

Thomas is renowned for its commitment to safety and durability, building buses that fleet buyers trust. Freightliner’s robust engineering ensures lasting performance for every mile traveled.

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Mileage 860
Passengers 77
Year 2026

2021 Ford Transit 350HD Micro Bird School Bus

27010

The 2021 Ford Transit 350HD Micro Bird School Bus is a compact and efficient 25-passenger vehicle ideal for short routes, daycare transport, or small private schools. With 58,000 miles and a gasoline-powered 3.7L engine, this model offers a balance of fuel economy, reliability, and maneuverability.


Built on Ford’s trusted Transit platform, this Micro Bird body provides solid construction, ease of entry, and a smooth ride. Its size makes it an excellent choice for urban environments or tight pickup zones where larger school buses may struggle.

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Mileage 58,000
Passengers 25
Year 2021

2019 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

27002

The 2019 Freightliner Thomas Conventional with Lift is a fleet-ready option designed for private student transportation services. With the capacity to accommodate 27 passengers plus one wheelchair spot, this ADA-compliant bus offers both accessibility and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those looking to expand their transportation capabilities.


Freightliner is a leader in the commercial vehicle industry, celebrated for its commitment to durability and innovation. Known for producing robust and reliable buses, Freightliner's reputation for excellence ensures each vehicle meets the demands of daily use while prioritizing comfort and safety. This makes it a smart investment for those in the student transportation sector, offering long-term performance and reliability.

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Mileage 155,000
Passengers 29
Year 2019

2013 Blue Bird School Bus

27001

The 2013 Blue Bird 78 Passenger bus is a fleet-ready powerhouse, perfect for private student transportation services aiming to boost their capacity. Equipped with a reliable Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus offers smooth and efficient operation, making it an ideal choice for organizations focused on providing safe and dependable transport for large groups of students.


Blue Bird is a respected leader in the bus manufacturing industry, renowned for its dedication to safety and durability. Their buses are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use while ensuring comfort and reliability, providing peace of mind for both operators and passengers.

Contact for Price
Mileage 132,000
Passengers 78
Year 2013

2015 Thomas Minotour School Bus

26967

The 2015 Thomas Minotour School Bus is an ideal choice for private student transportation, comfortably seating up to 29 passengers. With its robust 6.6L engine and automatic transmission, this fleet-ready vehicle ensures reliable performance, making it a dependable option for schools and organizations looking for efficient travel solutions.


Thomas Built Buses is renowned for its commitment to safety and durability, offering peace of mind to buyers who prioritize these crucial qualities. Known for producing buses that withstand the test of time, Thomas ensures each vehicle is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, making the Minotour a smart investment for any transportation fleet.

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Mileage 83,229
Passengers 29
Year 2015

2023 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 School Bus

26965

The 2023 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 School Bus is a fleet-ready solution perfect for private student transportation. With a seating capacity of 77 passengers and powered by a reliable Cummins engine paired with an automatic transmission, this bus ensures a smooth and efficient ride. Its low mileage of just 42,144 miles makes it a cost-effective option for those looking to expand their fleet with dependable and versatile vehicles.


Thomas Built Buses is a leader in the school bus industry, renowned for its commitment to safety and durability. Choosing a Thomas bus means investing in a vehicle that exceeds industry standards, providing peace of mind for both operators and passengers.

Contact for Price
Mileage 42,144
Passengers 77
Year 2023

2019 Blue Bird All American School Bus

26947

The 2019 Blue Bird All American offers a reliable and spacious option for transporting students safely. With a robust 6.7L engine and automatic transmission, this school bus is built to handle various driving conditions efficiently.

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Mileage 100,656
Passengers 0
Year 2019

2012 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

26932

The 2012 Freightliner Thomas School Bus is a reliable and fleet-ready choice for private student transportation, comfortably seating up to 43 passengers. With a dependable Cummins engine and AUTO/AIR transmission, this bus is designed to deliver smooth and efficient rides, making it an excellent option for expanding transportation services.


Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to durability and safety, providing peace of mind to buyers who prioritize dependable performance. Choosing a Freightliner bus means opting for a brand celebrated for delivering consistent, high-quality service, ensuring a smart investment for any transportation fleet.

Contact for Price
Mileage 127,000
Passengers 43
Year 2012

2011 Freightliner Thomas ADA School Bus

26929

The 2011 Freightliner Thomas School Bus is an excellent choice for churches and ministries seeking reliable and affordable group transportation. With its Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus is fleet-ready and can accommodate up to 42 passengers, including one wheelchair user, making it ideal for transporting youth groups, seniors, and congregation members to various church activities and events.


Freightliner is renowned for producing robust and dependable vehicles, offering peace of mind to buyers who prioritize mechanical reliability. Known for their durable construction and ease of maintenance, Freightliner buses provide a practical solution for ministries aiming to expand their mobility without exceeding their budget.

Contact for Price
Mileage 166,218
Passengers 42
Year 2011

2011 Blue Bird School Bus

26925

The 2011 Blue Bird School Busl is a fleet-ready bus perfect for private student transportation, accommodating up to 72 passengers comfortably. With its robust Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus promises reliable and efficient journeys, making it an excellent choice for schools or organizations looking to enhance their transportation offerings.


Bluebird is renowned for its unwavering commitment to safety and durability, producing buses that stand the test of time. This dedication ensures buyers can trust in the longevity and reliability of their investment, providing peace of mind for years to come.

Contact for Price
Mileage 101,000
Passengers 72
Year 2011

2009 International Dog Nose ADA School Bus

26923

The 2009 International Dog Nose School Bus is a versatile and economical option for churches and ministries seeking to enhance their group transportation capabilities. With seating for 33 passengers and capacity for one wheelchair, this bus is fleet-ready for various activities, from youth group excursions to senior retreats. Its reliable MaxxForce DT engine and AUTO/AIR transmission make it a dependable choice for replacing aging vans and expanding ministry mobility.


International is renowned for producing durable and reliable vehicles, providing buyers with long-term peace of mind and low maintenance costs. This reputation for mechanical reliability makes the 2009 International Conventional an ideal investment for organizations focused on mission-driven goals without the worry of transportation issues.

Contact for Price
Mileage 196,000
Passengers 33
Year 2009

2009 International ADA Dog Nose School Bus

26922

The 2009 International ADA Dog Nose School Bus is a smart choice for churches and ministries looking for a cost-effective and fleet-ready transportation solution. With seating for 33 passengers and equipped with a MaxxForce DT engine, this bus is perfect for transporting youth groups, seniors, and congregation members to various church activities. Its built-in wheelchair lift ensures ADA compliance, making it an inclusive option for congregations with diverse mobility needs.


International is a trusted name in the bus manufacturing industry, renowned for its commitment to safety and durability. Their buses are engineered to provide reliable performance and longevity, ensuring that your community's transportation needs are met efficiently and effectively.

Contact for Price
Mileage 208,000
Passengers 33
Year 2009
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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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