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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2002 International AmTran School Bus

2002 International AmTran School Bus

23614
The 2002 International AmTran is a robust school bus featuring a T-444-E V-8 diesel engine and an Allison automatic transmission, designed to accommodate up to 71 passengers for reliable transport. With its bright yellow exterior and various safety features, this bus is perfect for schools or organizations looking for dependable group transportation.
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Mileage 131584
Passengers 71
Year 2002
2017 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

2017 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

23595
The 2017 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is designed to accommodate up to 71 passengers and is powered by a robust Cummins diesel engine. With air brakes and a mileage of 73,318, this bus is built for safe and reliable student transportation.
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Mileage 73318
Passengers 71
Year 2017
2018 International ICCE School Bus

2018 International ICCE School Bus

23586
Explore the spacious interior of this school bus, capable of transporting 66 passengers efficiently and safely. The 2018 International ICCE model is powered by a Cummins engine and equipped with air brakes, featuring a mileage of 64,011.
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Mileage 64011
Passengers 66
Year 2018
2020 International IC CE School Bus

2020 International IC CE School Bus

23585
Discover the reliability of this school bus, designed to accommodate 63 passengers with comfort and safety in mind. The 2020 International ICCE model is equipped with a Cummins engine and features hydraulic brakes, boasting a mileage of 82,193.
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Mileage 82193
Passengers 63
Year 2020
2020 Thomas C2 School Bus

2020 Thomas C2 School Bus

23583
Explore the versatility of this school bus, specially designed to accommodate 54 passengers while offering enhanced accessibility features. The 2020 Thomas C2 model is equipped with a Cummins engine and air brakes, boasting a mileage of 56,596.
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Mileage 56596
Passengers 5
Year 2020
2013 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

2013 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

23581
Discover the reliability of this school bus, designed to transport up to 66 passengers comfortably. The 2013 Blue Bird Vision model is equipped with a Cummins engine and features air brakes, showcasing a mileage of 60,064.
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Mileage 60064
Passengers 66
Year 2013
2017 Thomas C2 School Bus

2017 Thomas C2 School Bus

23579
Discover the durability of the school bus designed to accommodate up to 71 passengers, ensuring an efficient transportation solution. This 2017 Thomas C2 model is powered by a reliable Cummins engine and features hydraulic brakes with only 36,864 miles.
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Mileage 36864
Passengers 71
Year 2017
2017 Thomas C2 School Bus

2017 Thomas C2 School Bus

23578
Explore the reliability of the school bus designed for various environments with a total capacity of 71 passengers. This 2017 Thomas C2 model features a powerful Cummins engine and is equipped with hydraulic brakes for enhanced safety.
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Mileage 49598
Passengers 71
Year 2017
2019 Thomas C2 ADA School Bus

2019 Thomas C2 ADA School Bus

23574
The 2019 Thomas C2 school bus is specially designed for needs-based transportation, featuring a Cummins diesel engine and a spacious capacity of 36 passengers. With hydraulic brakes and a mileage of 70,215, this bus ensures safe and reliable travel for student groups requiring additional support.
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Mileage 70215
Passengers 36
Year 2019
2019 Thomas C2 School Bus

2019 Thomas C2 School Bus

23568
The 2019 Thomas C2 school bus features a robust Cummins diesel engine and has a capacity of 42 passengers. Designed for reliability, this bus ensures safe transportation tailored for school use with air brakes for enhanced safety and control, making it an excellent choice for any school district seeking a dependable vehicle.
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Mileage 47311
Passengers 42
Year 2019
2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 Shuttle Bus

2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 Shuttle Bus

23563
The 2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 is a low-mileage shuttle bus equipped with a powerful 4.8L V8 engine, designed to transport up to 15 passengers comfortably. Featuring a 12ft Micro Blue Bird bus body, this vehicle offers front and rear A/C, dual air conditioning, and a seating arrangement suitable for daycare transport.
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Mileage 38053
Passengers 15
Year 2013
2013 IC CE300 ADA School Bus

2013 IC CE300 ADA School Bus

23509
The 2013 IC CE300 is an efficient bus ideal for transporting up to 60 passengers, featuring a powerful MaxxDT engine for reliable operation. This vehicle is a solid choice for shuttle services, combining spaciousness with comfort for a variety of transit needs.
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Mileage 105373
Passengers 60
Year 2013
2014 Lion Spartan School Bus

2014 Lion Spartan School Bus

23508
The 2014 Lion bus accommodates up to 65 passengers and features a powerful Cummins engine, ensuring reliable performance for various travel needs. This bus is a prime option for group transportation, providing a balance of comfort and utility.
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Mileage 142430
Passengers 65
Year 2014
2014 IC CE300 School Bus

2014 IC CE300 School Bus

23504
The 2014 IC CE300 provides ample seating for up to 66 passengers and is equipped with a reliable MaxxDT engine, making it ideal for various transit needs. This bus is a perfect choice for group transportation, offering durability and comfort for long journeys.
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Mileage 150150
Passengers 66
Year 2014
2014 IC CE200 School Bus

2014 IC CE200 School Bus

23501
The 2014 IC CE200 is an excellent choice for small transport needs, accommodating up to 35 passengers while featuring a robust Maxx7 engine. This versatile bus is ideal for shuttle services, offering efficiency and reliability for various transit applications.
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Mileage 69977
Passengers 35
Year 2014
2015 IC CE200 School Bus

2015 IC CE200 School Bus

23500
The 2015 IC CE200 is designed for smaller groups, comfortably seating up to 35 passengers and powered by a reliable Maxx7 engine. This model is perfect for shuttle services, combining compactness with efficiency for urban transport needs.
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Mileage 131470
Passengers 35
Year 2015
2017 IC CE300 School Bus

2017 IC CE300 School Bus

23492
The 2017 IC CE300 is designed to comfortably seat up to 65 passengers, making it an excellent option for group transport. Equipped with a reliable Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus provides substantial capacity and dependable performance.
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Mileage 67986
Passengers 65
Year 2017
2018 IC CE300 School Bus

2018 IC CE300 School Bus

23469
The 2018 IC CE300 is designed to hold up to 66 passengers comfortably, making it perfect for larger group transport. Featuring a robust Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus delivers excellent capacity and reliable performance for all your travel needs.
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Mileage 52507
Passengers 66
Year 2018
2018 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

2018 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

23465
Discover the 2018 Bluebird Vision, designed to accommodate up to 65 passengers, making it an ideal choice for school or group transport. Featuring a robust Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus combines excellent performance with significant capacity.
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Mileage 40208
Passengers 65
Year 2018
2019 IC CE300 School Bus

2019 IC CE300 School Bus

23448
Explore the 2019 IC CE300, equipped to comfortably seat 65 passengers, making it an excellent choice for any transit needs. With its efficient Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus provides reliable performance and solid capacity.
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Mileage 40557
Passengers 65
Year 2019
2019 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

2019 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

23447
Check out the 2019 Bluebird Vision, designed for spacious seating accommodating up to 65 passengers, making it perfect for school or group transport. Powered by a reliable Cummins engine and featuring an automatic transmission, this bus offers excellent performance with a strong capacity.
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Mileage 26253
Passengers 65
Year 2019
2020 IC CE300 School Bus

2020 IC CE300 School Bus

23446
The 2020 IC CE300 is an ideal choice for transporting up to 65 passengers comfortably, featuring a spacious interior and modern amenities. With a powerful Cummins engine and automatic transmission, this bus delivers reliable performance and excellent capacity for any journey.
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Mileage 124134
Passengers 65
Year 2020
2020 IC CE300 School Bus

2020 IC CE300 School Bus

23433
The 2020 IC CE300 bus is an efficient transport solution, comfortably seating up to 66 passengers. With a sturdy Cummins engine and a focus on durability, this bus is designed to meet the demands of various bus operations.
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Mileage 43001
Passengers 66
Year 2020
2020 IC CE300 School Bus

2020 IC CE300 School Bus

23432
The 2020 IC CE300 bus is built for efficiency, offering a spacious environment for up to 66 passengers. Powered by a dependable Cummins engine, this vehicle combines performance and convenience, making it perfect for various bus services.
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Mileage 38526
Passengers 66
Year 2020
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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.

Depending on your route, budget, and driver licensing situation, one of these categories may be a better match than a standard school bus.

Mini Buses

Best for: churches, nonprofits, and daycares needing 10–25 passenger capacity without a CDL. Mini buses typically stay under the 26,001 lb GVWR threshold and offer easier parking than a full-size Type C.

Shuttle Buses

Best for: shuttle and charter operators who want passenger-friendly interiors without school bus title restrictions. Shuttle buses often carry transit-style seating and can be operated without an S endorsement.

Coach Buses

Best for: charter operators and large school districts running long routes or overnight trips. Coaches offer restroom facilities, reclining seats, and luggage bays that a standard Type C school bus doesn't provide.

Skoolie Conversions

Best for: conversion buyers who want a head start — browse school buses already converted to living or travel vehicles, saving the demo and framing work.

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?

Browse the full inventory of used school buses available now — filtered by type, state, price, and capacity.

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