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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2015 Thomas Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner

10249

This 2015 Thomas Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner is equipped with hydraulic brakes and seats 77 children in high-back vinyl bench seats. 

It’s a top pick for those seeking a school bus for sale, perfect for various transportation needs. 

Contact for Price
Mileage 96377
Passengers 77
Year 2015

2017 Thomas Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner

10245

The 2017 Thomas Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner is a robust and reliable 77-passenger school bus designed for optimal safety and efficiency. 

Its sleek, aerodynamic body features a sturdy steel frame and advanced safety features, including a high-visibility windshield and reinforced side-impact protection.

Contact for Price
Mileage 74911
Passengers 77
Year 2017

2013 Thomas Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner

10243

This 2013 Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner seats 64 passengers and features durable high-back vinyl seats for safety and comfort.

Perfect for those seeking a used school bus for sale, this diesel bus is reliable and versatile for group transport. 

Contact for Price
Mileage 79345
Passengers 64
Year 2013

2014 Propane Blue Bird Vision 

10242

These Propane School Buses seat 72 children in high-back vinyl bench seats.  

They are in great shape. They start right up and drive without issue. 

Contact for Price
Passengers 72
Year 2014

2009 Chevrolet 3500 ADA Diesel

10181

The 2009 Chevrolet 3500 Thomas ADA Accessible Diesel Powered Mini School Bus is a compact, fleet-ready solution for organizations focused on efficient transportation. With seating for nine passengers and two wheelchair positions, this versatile mini bus is perfect for special education transport providers, daycare centers, day camps and churches. 

Contact for Price
Mileage 175834
Passengers 9
Year 2009

2011 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

10158

The 2011 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is designed for reliable and safe student transportation, offering a comfortable and secure ride for up to 48 passengers. This bus is ideal for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a dependable solution. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and efficient performance for daily transport needs. Its durable construction and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for community outreach programs and summer camps looking for a reliable school bus.


Blue Bird is celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation in the transportation industry. The Vision model stands out with its emphasis on safety and comfort, making it a preferred choice for school transportation.


Notable Features

Passenger Comfort: Features high-back blue leather bench seats, ensuring a secure and comfortable travel experience for students.

Safety and Reliability: Equipped with a battery cut-off switch, enhancing safety and compliance with transportation standards.

Clean Aesthetic: Boasts a yellow exterior with school bus lights and signage, maintaining a professional appearance.


Additional Specifications

Engine: Cummins Diesel

Transmission: Allison Automatic

Mileage: 184,797

Exterior Dimensions: Length: 29 ft, Width: 8 ft, Height: 10 ft, 2 inches

VIN: 1BAKBCPAXBF275775

Contact for Price
Mileage 184797
Passengers 48
Year 2011

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10157

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a modern and reliable vehicle designed to meet the demands of student transportation. With seating for 66 passengers, this bus is perfect for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a secure and efficient solution. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and dependable performance for daily transport needs. Its durable construction and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for community outreach programs and summer camps looking for a reliable school bus.

 

Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in the transportation industry. The Thomas C2 model stands out with its emphasis on safety and comfort, making it a preferred choice for school transportation.

 

Notable Features

Passenger Comfort: Features grey high-back vinyl bench seats, ensuring a secure and comfortable travel experience for students.

Safety and Reliability: Equipped with air brakes and a stop arm, enhancing safety and compliance with transportation standards.

Clean Aesthetic: Boasts a clean yellow exterior with school bus lights and signage, maintaining a professional appearance.

 

Additional Specifications

Engine: Cummins Diesel

Transmission: Allison Automatic

Mileage: 78,688

Exterior Dimensions: Length: 39 ft, Width: 8 ft, Height: 10 ft

VIN: 4UZABRDT0FCGM0898

Contact for Price
Mileage 78688
Passengers 66
Year 2015

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10145

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a reliable and safe vehicle designed to meet the demands of student transportation. With seating for 66 passengers, this bus is perfect for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a secure and efficient solution. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and dependable performance for daily transport needs. Its robust construction and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for community outreach programs and summer camps looking for a reliable school bus.


Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in the transportation industry. The Thomas C2 model stands out with its emphasis on safety and comfort, making it a preferred choice for school transportation.


Notable Features

Passenger Comfort: Features seat belts for all passengers, ensuring a secure and comfortable travel experience for students.

Safety and Reliability: Equipped with a Cummins Diesel engine and Allison Automatic transmission, enhancing safety and compliance with transportation standards.

Clean Aesthetic: Boasts a clean yellow exterior with school bus signage, maintaining a professional appearance.


Additional Specifications

Engine: Cummins Diesel

Transmission: Allison Automatic

Mileage: 97,218"

Contact for Price
Mileage 97218
Passengers 66
Year 2014

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10144

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 is designed with a focus on safety and reliability, making it a top choice for student transportation. Its robust construction and comfortable seating ensure a secure and pleasant ride, ideal for schools and organizations seeking a dependable school bus for sale.


This school bus features blue high-back vinyl bench seats with three seat belts per bench, ensuring safety and comfort for all passengers. The clean yellow paint, school bus signage, and stop sign enhance its visibility and compliance with school transportation standards. Equipped with air brakes and an AM/FM radio, this bus offers both safety and entertainment for daily routes.

Contact for Price
Mileage 96003
Passengers 66
Year 2014

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10143

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a robust and dependable vehicle designed to meet the rigorous demands of student transportation. With seating for 66 children or 48 adults, this bus is perfect for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a safe and efficient solution. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and reliable performance for daily transport needs. Its durable construction and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for community outreach programs and summer camps looking for a reliable school bus.


Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in the transportation industry. The Thomas C2 model stands out with its emphasis on safety and comfort, making it a preferred choice for school transportation.


Notable Features

Passenger Comfort: Features blue high-back vinyl bench seats with three seat belts per seat, ensuring a secure and comfortable travel experience for students.

Safety and Reliability: Equipped with air brakes and a NY spec emergency exit door on the driver's side, enhancing safety and compliance with transportation standards.

Clean Aesthetic: Boasts a clean yellow exterior with school bus signage and two stop signs, maintaining a professional appearance.


Additional Specifications

Engine: Cummins Diesel

Transmission: Allison Automatic

Mileage: 94,390"

Contact for Price
Mileage 94390
Passengers 66
Year 2014

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10142

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a modern and reliable vehicle designed to prioritize safety and comfort for students. With a seating capacity for 66 passengers, this bus is ideal for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a dependable solution for daily commutes. Its Cummins Diesel engine paired with an Allison Automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient performance, making it a top choice for those seeking a school bus for sale.

 

Freightliner is known for its durable construction and advanced features, ensuring that the Thomas C2 model provides safety and comfort for all passengers. The bus's robust build and thoughtful design make it a preferred choice for educational institutions.

 

Notable Features

Passenger Safety: Features grey high-back vinyl seats with air brakes and a stop arm, ensuring a secure travel experience.

Efficient Performance: Equipped with air brakes for reliable and smooth operation.

Professional Appearance: Clean yellow paint with school bus lights and signage, maintaining a professional look.

 

Additional Specifications

VIN: 4UZABRDT3FCGM5917

Mileage: 76,979"

Contact for Price
Mileage 76979
Passengers 66
Year 2015

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10141

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a dependable and modern vehicle designed with advanced safety features and comfort in mind, making it perfect for student transportation. With a seating capacity for 66 passengers, this bus is ideal for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a reliable solution for daily commutes. Its Cummins Diesel engine paired with an Allison Automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient performance, making it a top choice for those looking for a school bus for sale.

 

Freightliner is known for its robust build and modern design, ensuring that the Thomas C2 model provides safety and comfort for all passengers. The bus's durable construction and thoughtful design make it a preferred choice for educational institutions.

 

Notable Features

Passenger Safety: Features grey high-back vinyl bench seats with three seat belts per seat, ensuring a secure travel experience.

Efficient Performance: Equipped with air brakes for reliable and smooth operation.

Professional Appearance: Clean yellow paint with school bus signage and a stop sign, maintaining a professional look.

 

Additional Specifications

VIN: 4UZABRDTXFCM5915

Mileage: 83,704"

Contact for Price
Mileage 83704
Passengers 66
Year 2015

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 

10139

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a modern and efficient vehicle designed to excel in both safety and comfort, making it an ideal choice for transporting students. With a seating capacity for 66 passengers, this bus is perfect for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a reliable solution for daily commutes. Its Cummins Diesel engine paired with an Allison Automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient performance, making it a top option for those searching for a school bus for sale.

 

Freightliner is known for its durable build and advanced features, ensuring that the Thomas C2 model provides safety and comfort for all passengers. The bus's robust construction and thoughtful design make it a preferred choice for educational institutions.

 

Notable Features

Passenger Safety: Features grey high-back interior bench seating with three seat belts per bench, ensuring a secure travel experience.

Efficient Performance: Equipped with air brakes for reliable and smooth operation.

Professional Appearance: Clean yellow paint with school bus signage and two stop signs, maintaining a professional look.

 

Additional Specifications

Exterior Dimensions: Length: 39 ft, Width: 8 ft, Height: 10 ft

VIN: 4UZABRDT1FCGM5916

Mileage: 76,185"

Contact for Price
Mileage 76185
Passengers 66
Year 2015

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10138

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a robust and reliable vehicle designed to meet the demanding needs of student transportation. With a seating capacity for 70 passengers, this bus is perfect for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a dependable solution for daily commutes. Its Cummins Diesel engine paired with an Allison Automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient performance, making it a top choice for those in need of a durable school bus.


Freightliner is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in the transportation industry. The Thomas C2 model exemplifies this with its sturdy construction and thoughtful design, tailored to provide safety and comfort for all passengers.


Notable Features

Passenger Safety: Equipped with seat belts for all passengers, ensuring a secure travel experience.

Efficient Performance: Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and Allison Automatic transmission for reliable and smooth operation.

Professional Appearance: Features a classic yellow exterior, maintaining a clean and professional look.


Additional Specifications

VIN: 4UZABRDT1ECFH7112

Mileage: 61,093"

Contact for Price
Mileage 61093
Passengers 70
Year 2014

2014 Thomas Freightliner C2 School Bus

10134

The 2014 Thomas Freightliner C2 School Bus is a reliable and efficient vehicle designed to accommodate up to 66 passengers, making it ideal for school districts and community outreach programs. With 71,492 miles, this bus offers a dependable transportation solution for educational institutions. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and reliable performance.


Freightliner, in collaboration with Thomas, has crafted the C2 model to excel in safety and comfort. This bus is well-regarded for its durable construction and modern features, making it a top choice for those in the market for a school bus.


Notable Features:

Passenger Safety: Equipped with seat belts for all passengers, ensuring a secure ride for students.

Reliable Performance: Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine with an Allison Automatic transmission, promising dependable service for daily operations.

Spacious Design: Offers ample seating capacity for 66 passengers, ideal for large group transportation.


Additional Specifications:

VIN: 4UZABRDT0ECFS8536"

Contact for Price
Mileage 71492
Passengers 66
Year 2014

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10133

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a robust and reliable vehicle designed to accommodate up to 66 passengers, making it ideal for school districts and community outreach programs. With 71,951 miles, this bus offers a dependable transportation solution for educational institutions. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and efficient performance.


Freightliner, in collaboration with Thomas, has crafted the C2 model to excel in safety and comfort. This bus is well-regarded for its sturdy build and advanced features, making it a top choice for those in the market for a school bus.


Notable Features:

Passenger Safety: Equipped with seat belts for all passengers, ensuring a secure ride for students.

Enhanced Visibility and Efficiency: Features tinted glass for privacy and a battery cut-off switch for energy efficiency.

Reliable Performance: Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine with an Allison Automatic transmission, promising dependable service for daily operations.


Additional Specifications:

VIN: 4UZABRDTXECFB9094"

Contact for Price
Mileage 71951
Passengers 66
Year 2014

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10131

The 2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a reliable and efficient vehicle designed to accommodate up to 70 children or 48 adults, making it ideal for large school districts and community outreach programs. With only 58,659 miles, this bus offers a dependable transportation solution for educational institutions. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and reliable performance.


Freightliner, in collaboration with Thomas, has crafted the C2 model to excel in safety and comfort. This bus is well-regarded for its durable construction and modern features, making it a top choice for those in the market for a school bus.


Notable Features:

Safety and Accessibility: Equipped with a NY spec emergency exit door on the driver side, enhancing safety during travel.

Comfortable Seating: Features grey high-back vinyl bench seats with 3 seat belts per seat, providing comfort and safety for both children and adults.

Spacious Design: Offers ample seating capacity for 70 children or 48 adults, ideal for large group transportation.


Additional Specifications:

VIN: 4UZABRDT5ECFH7114"

Contact for Price
Mileage 58659
Passengers 70
Year 2014

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2

10130

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner School Bus is a robust and spacious vehicle designed to accommodate up to 70 passengers, making it ideal for large school districts and community outreach programs. With only 75,212 miles, this bus offers a reliable and efficient transportation solution for educational institutions. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and dependable performance.

 

Freightliner, in collaboration with Thomas, has crafted the C2 Saf-T-Liner model to excel in safety and comfort. This bus is well-regarded for its durable construction and advanced features, making it a top choice for those in the market for a school bus.

 

Notable Features:

Safety and Comfort: Equipped with seat belts and air brakes, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride for all passengers.

Enhanced Visibility: Features tinted glass, providing privacy and reducing glare for a better travel experience.

Reliable Performance: With low miles and fleet maintenance, this one-owner bus promises dependable service for daily operations.

 

Additional Specifications:

Exterior: Clean yellow paint with school bus signage, maintaining compliance and visibility."

Contact for Price
Mileage 75212
Passengers 70
Year 2015

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10129

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a reliable and efficient vehicle designed to meet the demands of student transportation. With seating for 66 children or 44 adults, this bus is ideal for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs seeking a dependable and secure transport solution. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, it offers smooth and reliable performance for daily operations.


Freightliner, in partnership with Thomas, has crafted a school bus that excels in safety and comfort. The C2 model is renowned for its durable construction and advanced features, making it a preferred choice for educational institutions.


Notable Features:

Safety and Surveillance: Equipped with air brakes and 4 child safety cameras, ensuring a secure environment for all passengers.

Comfortable Seating: Features blue high-back vinyl bench seats with 3 seat belts per bench, providing comfort and safety for both children and adults.

Convenient Storage: Includes 2 underfloor luggage bays, offering ample storage space for belongings during travel.


Additional Specifications:

Exterior: Clean yellow paint with school bus signage and 2 stop signs, maintaining compliance and visibility.

VIN: 4UZABRDTXFCGJ0503"

Contact for Price
Mileage 71876
Passengers 66
Year 2015

2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10110

The 2015 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus is a robust and reliable vehicle designed to accommodate up to 66 passengers, making it perfect for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with an Allison Automatic transmission, this bus ensures smooth and efficient transport for large groups, maintaining a high standard of safety and durability.


Freightliner, in collaboration with Thomas, has crafted a school bus that stands out for its reliability and safety features. The C2 model is well-regarded for its spacious design and proven performance, making it a preferred choice for educational institutions.


Notable Features:

Passenger Safety: Equipped with seat belts and toddler seats in the front row, ensuring safety for all passengers, including young children.

Emergency Preparedness: Features an emergency exit door on the driver's side, enhancing safety during travel.

Spacious Design: Offers ample seating capacity for 66 passengers, ideal for large group transportation.


Additional Specifications:

VIN: 4UZABRDT7FCFW9781"

Contact for Price
Mileage 71586
Passengers 66
Year 2015

2012 Blue Bird Vision 48-Passenger School Bus

10021

This 2012 Blue Bird Vision carries 48-passengers and is designed for safe and efficient student transportation, offering ample seating and a comfortable ride. Its sturdy construction and proven reliability make it a top choice for those looking for a school bus for sale.

Contact for Price
Mileage 186320
Passengers 48
Year 2012

2009 Chevrolet 3500 Girardin Mini School Bus

9955

The 2009 Chevrolet 3500 Girardin Mini School Bus is a compact and efficient vehicle designed to meet small group transportation needs with ease. With seating for 18 passengers and a wheelchair position, this bus is ideal for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a reliable and versatile mini bus. Powered by a Duramax 6.6L Diesel engine, it offers dependable performance for daily transport requirements.


Chevrolet's reputation for durability and reliability is well-reflected in the 3500 model, paired with Girardin's expertise in crafting school buses. This combination ensures a robust design that caters to the specific needs of educational institutions and community outreach programs.


Notable Features:

Accessibility and Comfort: Equipped with an electric front door and front and rear A/C and heat, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers, including those requiring wheelchair access.

Safety and Convenience: Features a roof hatch, AM/FM stereo, and rear emergency doors, enhancing safety and convenience during travel.

School Bus Essentials: Includes school bus lights and a stop sign, maintaining compliance and safety standards.


Additional Specifications:

Exterior Dimensions: Bumper-to-Bumper: 24'6", Width: 8', Height: 9'

Interior Dimensions: Behind Driver Seat to Rear: 13'9", Extra 1'6" on driver side, Width: 93 inches, Height: 75 inches

Contact for Price
Mileage 110774
Passengers 18
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 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.

Ready to Find Your Bus?

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