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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2004 International RE School Bus

22132

This 2004 International school bus is equipped with a T444E diesel engine and 72-passenger seating, offering reliable performance for student transportation at an excellent value.

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Passengers 72
Year 2004

2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

22131

This 2022 Blue Bird Vision school bus features a 6.8L gas engine and seating for 77 passengers, providing a fuel-efficient and dependable option for high-volume student transportation.

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Passengers 77
Year 2022

2024 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

22130

The 2024 Thomas C2 school bus is equipped with a Cummins engine and offers seating for 71 passengers, delivering modern reliability and high-capacity performance for school transportation.

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Passengers 71
Year 2024

2019 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

22127

This 2019 Blue Bird Vision is a 71-passenger school bus powered by a Cummins engine and automatic transmission, ideal for daily routes and built to deliver dependable service for student transportation.

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Passengers 71
Year 2019

2015 International School Bus

22126

The 2015 International school bus is a 52+1 passenger vehicle featuring a Ricon wheelchair lift and MaxForce DT diesel engine, designed for accessible and reliable student transportation. Contact us for current mileage and pricing.

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Passengers 52
Year 2015

2015 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

22125

The 2015 Blue Bird Vision offers seating for 24 passengers plus 3 wheelchair positions with a Braun lift, making it an ideal accessible school or shuttle bus. Powered by a Cummins engine and automatic transmission for reliable performance—call now for details and pricing.

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Passengers 24
Year 2015

2022 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

22124

The 2022 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a 71-passenger school bus powered by a Cummins engine and automatic transmission, engineered for durability and dependable daily school transportation. Contact us today for pricing and availability.

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Passengers 71
Year 2022

2019 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

22123

The 2019 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a 71-passenger school bus featuring a Cummins diesel engine and automatic transmission, designed for reliable performance and high passenger capacity. Call now to inquire about pricing and mileage.

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Passengers 71
Year 2019

2016 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

22122

The 2016 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a 71-passenger school bus equipped with a Cummins diesel engine and automatic transmission, ideal for dependable, high-capacity student transport. Contact us for current mileage and pricing.

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Passengers 71
Year 2016

2018 Thomas EFX School Bus

22121

The 2018 Thomas EFX is an 83-passenger school bus powered by a reliable Cummins engine, designed for maximum capacity and dependable daily service. Call today for up-to-date mileage and pricing information.

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Passengers 83
Year 2018

2021 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

22120

The 2021 Blue Bird Vision is a 65-passenger school bus powered by a dependable Cummins engine with hydraulic brakes, offering safe and efficient transportation for school fleets. Contact us today for mileage and pricing details.

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Passengers 65
Year 2021

2025 Ford Collins School Bus

22119

The 2025 Ford Collins is a 33-passenger school bus equipped with a 7.3L gas engine and front and rear A/C, designed to deliver dependable and comfortable student transport. Contact us today for current mileage and pricing.

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Passengers 33
Year 2025

2025 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

22117

The 2025 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a 71-passenger school bus featuring a Cummins engine, Webasto heater, and lighted stop arm and school bus signs. Built for safety and efficiency, it’s ideal for districts upgrading to newer, dependable student transportation.

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Passengers 71
Year 2025

2009 IC RE School Bus

22005

The 2009 IC RE is an 84-passenger Type D school bus powered by a 285-horsepower MaxxForce DT diesel engine with air brakes. Built on the International 3000 chassis, it features a spacious layout and durable construction, ideal for daily school service or high-capacity shuttle operations.

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Mileage 151970
Passengers 84
Year 2009

2010 IC CE School Bus

22004

The 2010 IC CE is a 65-passenger school bus powered by a 225-horsepower MaxxForce DT diesel engine. This pre-owned Type C model is a reliable choice for schools, organizations, or shuttle use, offering durable construction and solid performance.

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Mileage 148481
Passengers 65
Year 2010

2012 IC RE Flat Nose School Bus

22003

The 2012 IC RE is an 84-passenger rear-engine school bus powered by a 285-horsepower MaxxForce DT diesel engine. Built for high-capacity routes, this Type D bus offers reliability, strength, and ideal comfort for large-scale school transportation.

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Mileage 132405
Passengers 84
Year 2012

2012 IC CE School Bus

22002

The 2012 IC CE is a 71-passenger school bus powered by a MaxxForce 7 diesel engine with 220 horsepower. Built for dependable daily service, this unit is well-suited for school districts or shuttle fleet operations.

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Mileage 111891
Passengers 71
Year 2012

2012 IC CE 300 School Bus

22001

The 2012 IC CE-300 is a 71-passenger school bus powered by a 7.6L MaxxForce DT turbo diesel engine with air brakes. Featuring a durable body and drivetrain built in the same facility, it offers long-lasting reliability for school routes or shuttle applications.

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Mileage 129497
Passengers 71
Year 2012

2017 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

21999

The 2017 Blue Bird Vision is a 59-passenger Type D school bus with a Cummins diesel engine and Allison 2500 automatic transmission. Built for durability and safety, it’s a versatile unit ideal for school transportation, shuttle services, or fleet expansion.

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Mileage 134152
Passengers 59
Year 2017

1998 International AmTran School Bus

21982

The 1998 International AmTran is a high-capacity school bus powered by a rear-mounted T-444-E diesel engine with air brakes. With seating for up to 84 passengers and an automatic transmission, it’s ideal for school service, group transport, or conversion.

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Mileage 145686
Passengers 84
Year 1998

1998 International AmTran School Bus

21980

The 1998 International AmTran is a rear-engine diesel school bus with air brakes and an 84/56-passenger layout. Powered by a T-444-E engine and equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, this bus offers solid functionality for transportation or repurposing projects.

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Mileage 128926
Passengers 84
Year 1998

1998 International AmTran School Bus

21978

The 1998 International AmTran is a high-capacity school bus with air brakes and a rear-mounted T-444-E diesel engine. With an 84/56-passenger layout and Allison 5-speed automatic transmission, it offers solid performance and reliability for fleet or repurposing use.

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Mileage 129997
Passengers 84
Year 1998

2001 International AmTran School Bus

21970

The 2001 International AmTran is a diesel-powered school bus with air brakes and a high-capacity 84/56 seating configuration. Powered by a DT466 E engine and automatic transmission, this Texas-based unit is ideal for transit, conversion, or group transport use.

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Mileage 128586
Passengers 84
Year 2001

2003 Chevrolet Express Cutaway School Bus

21937

The 2003 Chevrolet Express Cutaway Micro Bird is a compact gas-powered school bus equipped with a 4.8L V8 engine and manual front A/C. With just over 121K miles, this unit is an economical option for student transport or shuttle use.

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Mileage 121905
Year 2003
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Which School Bus Is Right for You?

School buses show up on more buyer shortlists than you might expect. Whether you're a fleet manager, a church administrator, or a first-time converter, the right type depends on your passenger count, driver licensing, and budget. Here's how the main use cases stack up.

School bus buyer-fit matrix by use case
Buyer Type Recommended Type Typical Budget (Used) Key Consideration
School district / fleet operator Type C or D (66–90 passengers) $15,000 – $40,000 FMVSS 222 compliance, CDL Class B + P + S endorsements required for drivers, fleet pricing on multiples
Church / nonprofit Type A (14–20 passengers) or activity bus $8,000 – $18,000 Non-CDL operability below 26,001 lbs GVWR and 15 passengers; look for MFSAB (Multi-Function School Activity Bus) titles
Skoolie conversion Short Type C (40 ft or under), flat-nose preferred $3,000 – $12,000 Interior ceiling height (minimum 6 ft standing clearance), rust-free frame, no major accident history — cosmetics don't matter, structure does
Shuttle / charter operator Type A transit-style or activity bus $10,000 – $25,000 Passenger comfort, ADA lift option, low mileage relative to age; confirm title as activity or transit bus (not school bus) if drivers lack CDL S endorsement
Exporter Type C or D, any age $3,000 – $15,000 Clean title, no rebuilt/salvage designation, major mechanical systems intact; cosmetic and compliance condition matters less for export markets

School Bus Types at a Glance

The federal classification system divides school buses into four types by body configuration and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR — the maximum safe loaded weight). The type you choose determines CDL requirements, route fit, and resale value. If you're unsure which type fits your operation, the buyer matrix above is a good starting point.

School bus Type A through D: specifications and CDL requirements
Type Passenger Capacity Typical Length GVWR Class CDL Required? Used Price Range
Type A Up to 24 passengers 20 – 28 ft Under 10,000 lbs (A-1) or 10,001 – 14,500 lbs (A-2) No CDL if ≤15 passengers and <26,001 lbs GVWR $8,000 – $20,000
Type B Up to 35 passengers 23 – 30 ft 10,001 – 26,000 lbs CDL Class B required above 26,000 lbs GVWR $10,000 – $22,000
Type C Up to 66 passengers 35 – 40 ft Over 10,000 lbs (conventional cab-over or flat-nose) CDL Class B + P + S endorsements $12,000 – $35,000
Type D Up to 90 passengers 40 – 45 ft Over 10,000 lbs (transit/flat-nose, rear engine) CDL Class B + P + S endorsements $15,000 – $50,000

Capacity figures reflect standard school-bus seating (three-abreast, padded compartmentalization). Actual capacity varies by manufacturer configuration and seat spacing.

Understanding the Four School Bus Types

Type A — Small Body on Van or Cutaway Chassis. Type A buses are built on a van or cutaway chassis — essentially a commercial van extended into a bus body. You get seating for up to 24 passengers and a footprint that stays manageable in parking lots and urban routes. Many configurations stay under the CDL threshold, which is why they're the default choice for churches, daycares, and small nonprofits. Popular platforms include the Ford E-450 and Chevy Express cutaway.

Type B — Bus Body on Van or Truck Chassis. Type B buses extend a conventional bus body forward over the engine, mounted on a heavy-duty van or truck chassis. You're looking at seating for up to 35 passengers — useful when a Type A cutaway isn't enough but a full-size Type C feels like overkill. Less common than Type A or C in used inventory. One thing to verify before you buy: CDL requirements depend on the GVWR, so confirm whether your driver needs a license upgrade.

Type C — Conventional Full-Size School Bus. Type C is the iconic yellow school bus — flat-nosed or conventional cab-forward body on a heavy chassis, seating 48–66 passengers. If you're shopping used inventory, you'll find the Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 and Blue Bird Vision dominating the listings. Both are well-supported nationwide for parts and service. Expect well-maintained examples with 100,000–200,000 miles to fall in the $15,000–$30,000 range. Your drivers will need a CDL Class B with P and S endorsements.

Type D — Transit-Style Full-Size School Bus. Type D buses use a transit (flat-nose, rear-engine) configuration — the same profile as a city bus. If you're running high-density routes, the 90-passenger capacity is hard to beat. The rear engine improves front-end serviceability and reduces passenger-area noise, which your drivers will appreciate on long runs. Used pricing typically starts around $15,000 and climbs to $50,000 for later-model, low-mileage examples. Same CDL endorsements apply as Type C.

Shop by Model

Looking for a specific make? The Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 school bus is one of the most common Type C units in used inventory — parts availability is excellent and mechanic familiarity is high nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a used school bus cost?

Used school bus prices range from $3,000 for high-mileage export candidates to $50,000 for late-model, low-mileage Type D units. If you're targeting the most common used option — a Type C conventional — expect to spend $12,000–$30,000 for a serviceable unit. Condition, mileage, model year, and title type (school bus vs. activity bus) all affect your final price.

How many miles is too many on a used school bus?

Diesel school buses — the majority of used inventory — routinely reach 250,000–350,000 miles with proper maintenance. Mileage alone is a poor indicator for your purchase decision: a 150,000-mile bus with documented oil changes and a clean frame is worth more than a 90,000-mile unit with deferred maintenance and rust. Always request service records and inspect the frame before you buy.

Do I need a CDL to drive a school bus?

In most states, yes — if you're transporting students. A CDL Class B with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements is required for vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR carrying more than 15 passengers. Type A buses under 26,001 lbs with 15 or fewer passengers may not require a CDL, but state rules vary — confirm with your DMV before purchase.

Can I legally convert a school bus into an RV (skoolie)?

Yes, in all 50 states — but the process varies. You'll need to retitle the bus from "school bus" to "motor home" or "converted bus" with your state DMV, which typically requires photos of the completed conversion and a vehicle inspection. Most states don't allow school-titled vehicles to be registered for personal use without retitling. Budget $50–$300 for fees depending on the state.

What should I inspect before buying a used school bus?

Prioritize frame integrity (look for rust at crossmembers and outriggers), transmission function, engine oil condition, and brake system wear. Check the roof for delamination on older units. Request a Carfax or NMVTIS report to flag salvage or rebuilt titles. A pre-purchase inspection by a diesel mechanic familiar with Cummins or International engines typically costs $150–$300 and is well worth it.

What's the difference between a school bus and an activity bus title?

A school bus title restricts the vehicle to student transportation under state education regulations and requires CDL-endorsed drivers. An activity bus (also called MFSAB — Multi-Function School Activity Bus) title allows broader use — field trips, church groups, youth programs — and may not require the S endorsement. Activity-titled buses often sell at a premium for non-school buyers.

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