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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2024 International CE School Bus

10697

The 2024 International CE is built for efficient group transport, offering modern features and a spacious design for added comfort. This vehicle is an excellent choice for those in need of a dependable vehicle that delivers both performance and reliability.

Contact for Price
Mileage 8000
Passengers 77
Year 2024

2019 Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner School Bus

10695

The 2019 Freightliner Thomas C2 delivers reliable and efficient performance, designed with spacious seating for comfortable group transport. This vehicle is a great option for those looking for a pre-owned vehicle that combines durability with comfort.

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Mileage 107010
Passengers 35
Year 2019

2018 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

10694

The 2018 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is a modern and reliable vehicle designed to accommodate up to 65 passengers, making it an excellent choice for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs. With its low mileage and efficient design, this bus ensures a safe and comfortable ride for students. Powered by a 6.8 Liter Gas engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, it offers smooth and dependable performance for daily transport needs. This school bus is a valuable asset for those seeking a well-maintained school bus that combines safety and comfort.


Blue Bird is a trusted name in the school bus industry, known for its commitment to safety and innovation. The Vision model stands out with its modern design and reliable performance, making it a preferred choice for school transportation.


Notable Features

Passenger Comfort: The interior features blue vinyl bench seats with seat belts, ensuring a safe and comfortable travel experience for students.

Safety and Reliability: Equipped with air brakes, school bus signage, and a stop sign, this bus meets all safety standards and compliance requirements.

Clean Aesthetic: The exterior boasts fresh yellow paint, maintaining a professional appearance that is synonymous with school buses.


Additional Specifications

Exterior Dimensions: Length: 36 ft, Width: 8 ft, Height: 10.5 ft

Interior Dimensions: Length: 30 ft, Width: 7.5 ft, Height: 6.5 ft

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 33,000 lbs

Contact for Price
Mileage 64618
Passengers 65
Year 2018

2009 International RE School Bus

10692

The 2009 International RE is built for dependable group transport, featuring a rear-engine design for enhanced performance. It's a solid option for anyone in search of a previously owned bus that combines reliability with comfort.

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Mileage 160000
Passengers 72
Year 2009

2014 Thomas Saf-T-Liner School Bus

10689

The 2014 Thomas Saf-T-Liner offers seating for 52 passengers and is built for durability, making it ideal for school or group transport.


This bus is perfect for anyone in the market for a used bus for sale, combining comfort and reliability. 

Contact for Price
Mileage 62517
Passengers 52
Year 2014

2016 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

10688

The 2016 Blue Bird Vision is a low-mileage vehicle designed for efficient and reliable group transport. It’s a great option for those looking for a low-mileage school bus that offers both durability and long-term value.

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Mileage 95000
Passengers 52
Year 2016

2024 International CE Electric School Bus

10687

The 2024 International CE Electric offers cutting-edge electric technology, providing eco-friendly and efficient transportation for large groups. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a sustainable bus that prioritizes both reliability and environmental impact.

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Passengers 77
Year 2024

2001 Thomas FE Flat Nose School Bus

10685

The 2001 Thomas FE Flat Nose School Bus is designed for large-group transportation, offering seating for up to 78 passengers with a durable and reliable design. This vehicle is an ideal option for public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs that require a high-capacity bus. Powered by a 5.9L Front Engine Diesel and equipped with an automatic transmission, it ensures dependable performance for daily transport needs. This school bus is a valuable asset for those seeking a well-maintained school bus that combines capacity and reliability.


Notable Features

Passenger Comfort: The interior features gray vinyl bench seats, providing a comfortable travel experience for students.

Safety and Reliability: Equipped with air brakes, dash AC and heaters, school bus signage, and a stop sign, this bus meets all safety standards and compliance requirements.

Clean Aesthetic: The exterior boasts fresh yellow paint, maintaining a professional appearance that is synonymous with school buses.


Additional Specifications

Exterior Dimensions: Length: 36 ft, Width: 8 ft, Height: 10.5 ft

Interior Dimensions: Length: 30 ft, Width: 7.5 ft, Height: 6.5 ft

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 26,000 lbs

Contact for Price
Mileage 166740
Passengers 78
Year 2001

2012 Bluebird School Bus

10679

The 2012 Bluebird is designed for comfortable and safe group transportation, featuring a spacious interior and reliable performance. It's a great option for anyone searching for a pre-owned vehicle that ensures long-term value and dependability.

Contact for Price
Mileage 143000
Passengers 48
Year 2012

2012 International School Bus

10678

The 2012 International is built to accommodate up to 78 passengers, offering a spacious and reliable solution for large-group transport. It's the optimal option for those who are looking to meet the highest standards of safety protocol around school areas.

Contact for Price
Mileage 151000
Passengers 78
Year 2012

2012 International School Bus

10677

The 2012 International, comfortably seats 66 passengers and is designed for efficient, large-group transportation. This vehicle is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable, comfortable, and reliable bus.

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Mileage 87000
Passengers 66
Year 2012

2019 Freightliner Thomas C2 School Bus

10669

(2 Available)

This 2019 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a versatile and durable bus, ideal for both school transportation and shuttle services. With its spacious interior and advanced safety features, it's a great option for those searching for a bus for sale that combines reliability and comfort.

Contact for Price
Mileage 40876
Passengers 71
Year 2019

2019 International CE School Bus

10668

This 2019 International CE is a dependable bus designed for comfort and efficiency, perfect for school routes or group transportation. With a robust build and modern features, it's an ideal choice for those looking for a bus for sale that offers reliability and safety.

Contact for Price
Mileage 49658
Passengers 77
Year 2019

2011 Freightliner Thomas Wheelchair Bus

10660

West Coast bus with AC and ADA lift

 

The 2011 Freightliner Thomas C2 is a dependable school bus with modern safety features and a spacious interior, perfect for group transportation. It's an excellent choice for those searching for used school buses that deliver both reliability and comfort.

Contact for Price
Mileage 128600
Passengers 45
Year 2011

2008 Freightliner Thomas School Bus

10659

The 2008 Freightliner Thomas is a sturdy school bus, designed for long-lasting performance and equipped with comfortable seating. This model is a great option for those looking for pre owned buses that offer reliability and efficiency for daily transport needs.

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Mileage 167311
Year 2008

2018 Thomas Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner

10290

This 2018 Thomas C2 special needs school bus has a capacity of 10+6 passengers, a Cummins diesel engine, and air brakes. 

With 51,023 miles and air conditioning, it's perfect for those looking to buy a specialized school bus.

Contact for Price
Mileage 51023
Passengers 10+6
Year 2018

2018 Thomas C2 School Bus

10251

This 2018 Thomas C2 school bus offers spacious seating for 77 passengers, making it a perfect choice for school transportation. 

It is powered by a dependable Cummins diesel engine and features air brakes for enhanced safety and performance. With 81,764 miles on the odometer, this well-maintained bus is an excellent option to meet your transportation needs.

Contact for Price
Mileage 81764
Passengers 77
Year 2018

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
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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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