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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2009 International IC RE 300 School Bus

20495
The 2009 IC RE300 is a sturdy school bus designed to accommodate up to 72 passengers comfortably. Equipped with a reliable International MaxxForce DT 7.6L Turbo Diesel engine and Allison 3000PTS transmission, this bus is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable option for school transport. With features like underfloor storage and a rust-free body, it's a practical addition to any fleet of buses for sale.
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Mileage 115000
Passengers 72
Year 2009

2011 Blue Bird All American School Bus

20486
The 2011 Blue Bird All American is a robust school bus with a capacity of 78 passengers, designed for reliable transportation. It comes equipped with features like underfloor storage and power heated mirrors, making it a practical option for both school and group transport needs. This used school bus for sale meets the rigorous standards of the 2023 Washington State Patrol inspection.
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Mileage 137008
Passengers 78
Year 2011

2024 Chevrolet G4500 Magellan School Bus

20456
The 2024 Chevrolet Magellan is a versatile Type-A school bus designed to accommodate up to 30 passengers with comfort and safety in mind. Featuring the largest passenger windows available, this bus is perfect for school transport and group outings. Equipped with advanced safety features such as three-point seat belts, it ensures a secure journey for all passengers.
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Mileage 0
Passengers 30
Year 2024

2018 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

20434
This 2018 Blue Bird Vision is a dependable school bus with a seating capacity of 77 passengers, designed for safe transportation. Equipped with air brakes and a powerful 6.8L V10 engine, this bus ensures a reliable ride for students and groups. Ideal for those searching for school buses for sale, this model combines comfort with functionality.
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Mileage 28669
Passengers 77
Year 2018

2018 International IC CE School Bus

20423
The 2018 INTERNATIONAL IC CE is a reliable school bus designed to accommodate up to 66 passengers, making it an excellent choice for student transportation. This model features robust air brakes and a Cummins engine, ensuring safe and efficient performance on the road. Ideal for those seeking quality used school buses for sale, this vehicle is ready to serve your transport needs.
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Mileage 66075
Passengers 66
Year 2018

2023 Trans Tech Trans Star School Bus

20413
This 2023 TRANS TECH TRANS STAR is a versatile minibus designed for small group transportation, with a seating capacity of 14 passengers. Powered by a reliable 3.7L V6 engine, it's an ideal choice for those seeking a used school bus for sale. Perfect for various transport solutions, this model features hydraulic brakes for enhanced safety and control.
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Mileage 0
Passengers 14
Year 2023

2023 Trans Tech SST School Bus

20404
The 2023 TRANS TECH SST school minibus is a versatile option with a seating capacity for 34 passengers, perfect for transporting small groups efficiently. Powered by a reliable 6.0L V8 engine, this bus ensures a smooth ride for various needs such as school trips or charter services. Featuring a gas fuel type, it provides an economical solution for those interested in used school buses for sale.
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Mileage 0
Passengers 34
Year 2023

2020 International IC CE School Bus

20378
The 2020 International ICCE is a dependable school bus designed to accommodate 77 passengers with ease. Equipped with air brakes and powered by a reliable 6.7L engine, this bus is suitable for transporting large groups in comfort. A great choice for those looking for school buses for sale, it combines functionality with performance.
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Mileage 67000
Passengers 77
Year 2020

2019 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

20373
This 2019 Blue Bird Vision school bus is designed for efficiency and safety, accommodating up to 71 passengers. With dependable air brakes and a robust Cummins engine, it's ideal for both school transport and group outings. Its manageable mileage of 31,134 ensures reliability for those looking to buy a bus for their fleet.
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Mileage 31134
Passengers 71
Year 2019

2019 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

20372
The 2019 Blue Bird Vision is a durable school bus with a seating capacity of 48 passengers. Equipped with a reliable 6.8L engine, it is designed for safe and efficient transport. Ideal for both school and group outings, this bus offers versatility in transportation solutions.
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Mileage 52962
Passengers 48
Year 2019

2018 Chevy Collins School Bus

20366
The 2018 Chevy Collins is a dependable minibus designed for efficient group transport, seating up to 28 passengers. Equipped with a 6.0L V8 engine and both air conditioning and hydraulic brakes, this bus ensures a comfortable journey for all. Ideal for various uses, this vehicle is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable minibus for sale.
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Mileage 81056
Passengers 28
Year 2018

2018 Chevy Collins School Bus

20365
The 2018 Chevy Collins is a versatile school minibus with a capacity for 28 passengers, making it ideal for small group transport. Equipped with a reliable 6.0L V8 engine and both air conditioning systems, this bus ensures comfort and efficiency during journeys. Perfect for those seeking small buses for sale, it combines functionality with modern features.
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Mileage 75115
Passengers 28
Year 2018

2018 Chevy Collins School Bus

20362
This 2018 Chevy Collins school bus seats 28 passengers and features a reliable 6.0L V8 engine. Designed for comfort, it comes equipped with air conditioning and hydraulic brakes, making it suitable for various transportation needs. Ideal for those looking for used school buses for sale, this minibus offers both functionality and style.
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Mileage 77169
Passengers 28
Year 2018

2017 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

20360
The 2017 Blue Bird Vision is a dependable school bus with a seating capacity of 71 passengers, perfect for transporting large groups. This model features a robust Cummins engine and is equipped with air brakes for enhanced safety. Ideal for those looking to buy a school bus, it combines durability and performance.
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Mileage 70105
Passengers 71
Year 2017

2017 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

20342
This 2017 Blue Bird Vision is a durable school bus with a passenger capacity of 71. Equipped with reliable air brakes, it ensures safe and smooth transport for students and groups alike. With 76,381 miles on the odometer, this bus is a great choice among used school buses for sale.
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Mileage 76381
Passengers 71
Year 2017

2020 Thomas C2 School Bus

20331
This 2020 Thomas C2 school bus features a seating capacity of 35 passengers, making it a great choice for smaller groups or school trips. Equipped with air brakes and both air conditioning and heating, this bus ensures comfort and safety on the road. Ideal for various transportation needs, this reliable option stands out among buses for sale.
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Mileage 45318
Passengers 35
Year 2020

2020 International IC CE School Bus

20326
The 2020 INTERNATIONAL ICCE is a versatile school bus designed to accommodate 71 passengers comfortably. Equipped with hydraulic brakes and an efficient 8.8L engine, this bus ensures safety and reliability for school transportation needs. Perfect for those looking to buy a bus, it combines functionality with modern features to serve a variety of transport purposes.
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Mileage 24153
Passengers 71
Year 2020

2012 International CE Yellow Bus

20083

2012 International CE 54-Passenger NJ Spec Yellow School Bus with a Diesel engine, Automatic Transmission, Seat Belts for all Passengers and more. This bus was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use and is ready to go back to work. 

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Mileage 212327
Passengers 54
Year 2012

2012 International NJ Spec 54 Pass

20082

The 2012 International CE NJ Spec 54 Passenger School Bus is a full-size, reliable vehicle designed to accommodate up to 54 passengers, making it ideal for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs. Fresh out of fleet use, this used school bus is equipped with a diesel engine and automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient performance for daily transport needs. With seat belts and fleet maintenance since new, it offers safety and reliability for passengers. Its clean yellow exterior provides a professional appearance, making it a preferred choice for educational institutions seeking a high-capacity transport solution.

 

International has built a reputation for excellence in the transportation industry, consistently delivering vehicles that combine durability with efficiency. The CE model stands out for its thoughtful design and reliable performance, making it a top choice for schools and organizations that prioritize safety and comfort in student transportation.

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Mileage 174982
Passengers 54
Year 2012

2012 International NJ 54

20081

The 2012 International CE NJ Spec School Bus is a robust and reliable vehicle designed to accommodate up to 54 passengers, making it ideal for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs. This used school bus is fresh from fleet use and ready to get back to work, featuring a diesel engine and automatic transmission for smooth and efficient performance. With hydraulic brakes and seat belts, it ensures safety and comfort for daily transport needs. Its clean yellow exterior offers a professional appearance, making it a preferred choice for educational institutions seeking a high-capacity transport solution.

 

International has established itself as a leader in the transportation industry, known for producing vehicles that combine durability with efficiency. The CE model reflects this legacy, offering a reliable and comfortable ride that meets the demands of modern school transportation.

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Mileage 177144
Passengers 54
Year 2012

2017 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

20069
Introducing the 2017 Thomas Freightliner C2, a strong and spacious school bus with a seating capacity for 77 passengers. Equipped with a reliable Cummins engine, this bus offers a durable choice for transporting students or groups. With its bright yellow exterior and secure air brake system, it’s an excellent option for anyone seeking used school buses for sale.
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Mileage 100000
Passengers 77
Year 2017

2017 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

20068
The 2017 Thomas Freightliner C2 is a durable school bus with a capacity for 77 passengers, making it a great choice for large group transport. Equipped with air brakes and an automatic transmission, it ensures a smooth and safe driving experience. Ideal for educational institutions, this used school bus for sale combines reliability with efficiency for everyday use.
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Mileage 110000
Passengers 77
Year 2017

2011 IC School Bus

20063
The 2011 IC 42 Passenger School Bus is a dependable vehicle perfect for transporting students with its capacity of 42 passengers. Designed with hydraulic brakes and an automatic transmission, it ensures smooth handling and safety. This yellow school bus is an excellent option for anyone looking to buy a bus for reliable school transportation services.
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Mileage 90000
Passengers 42
Year 2011

2011 IC School Bus

20062
This 2011 IC 42 Passenger School Bus is an efficient choice for transporting students with its spacious 42-seat capacity. Equipped with automatic transmission and hydraulic brakes, it ensures a smooth and reliable ride for all passengers. Ideal for school districts seeking used school buses for sale, this dependable option prioritizes safety and comfort.
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Mileage 129000
Passengers 42
Year 2011
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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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