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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2021 Chevrolet Microbird School Bus

1000408

Upgrade your school transport or employee shuttle fleet with this fleet-ready 2021 Chevrolet Express Micro Bird School Bus. Designed to deliver exceptional reliability and low total cost of ownership (TCO), this bus is the perfect solution for public and private schools, daycare operators, camps, and fleet buyers seeking a dependable vehicle for student, child, or employee transport. The robust Gas V8 engine and automatic transmission provide smooth, efficient operation, while the durable Micro Bird body ensures long-lasting service and safety for every ride. With its striking yellow exterior and comfortable Medium Pewter interior, passengers enjoy both visibility and comfort on every route. Whether transporting students, camp attendees, or jobsite crews, this bus stands out as a reliable choice for daily operations.

Chevrolet is known for building vehicles with a strong, reliable chassis and engineering excellence. The Micro Bird body is trusted by school fleets nationwide for its safety and durability.

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2013 Blue Bird All American School Bus

1000405

Discover exceptional fleet-ready performance with the 2013 Blue Bird All American School Bus, designed to deliver reliable school transport for students, employees, and adult riders alike. Equipped with the robust Cummins ISB 6.7L Turbo Charged Diesel engine and a dependable Allison automatic transmission, this bus offers smooth operation and low TCO for fleet buyers and operators seeking long-term value. With a capacity for up to 78 passengers, it is ideal for public and private schools, summer camps, daycare centers, employee shuttles, and large group transportation. The All American's proven chassis is engineered for reliability, making it a trusted choice for jobsite crews, agriculture employees, and export buyers looking for a durable transport solution.

Blue Bird is renowned for building school buses that prioritize safety, durability, and ease of maintenance. The All American model stands out for its commitment to quality and long-term dependability in demanding fleet environments.

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2020 IC Bus Ce300 School Bus

1000403

Enhance your fleet with the 2020 IC Bus CE300 School Bus, the ideal solution for safe and efficient school transport. Built on a reliable International chassis and powered by a robust Cummins 6-cylinder diesel engine, this bus delivers consistent performance and longevity for a low total cost of ownership (TCO). With 72,000 miles and an automatic transmission, the CE300 is fleet-ready and designed for the demands of daily routes, employee shuttles, or seasonal camp programs. The spacious interior and proven design ensure comfort and security for students, adults, and workers across a wide range of applications, from public and private schools to construction sites and agriculture transport.

IC Bus is recognized for its commitment to safety, durability, and innovative engineering. The International body provides unmatched dependability and long-term value for fleet operators.

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2016 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus

1000401

Experience reliable, fleet-ready school transport with the 2016 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus, purpose-built for safety, comfort, and low total cost of ownership (TCO). This robust bus features a trusted Cummins ISB 6.7L Turbo Charged Diesel engine paired with an automatic transmission, ensuring dependable performance for daily routes or long-distance trips. With seating for up to 44 passengers, it is ideal for transporting students, employees, or camp groups with ease. The spacious interior—measuring 32 feet in length, 7 feet 7 inches in width, and 6 feet 4 inches in height—provides ample room for both riders and supervisors. The 38-foot exterior length and thoughtful design maximize capacity while maintaining maneuverability, making it a versatile asset for any fleet. Blue Bird is renowned for producing durable, high-quality activity buses that stand up to the demands of regular use. Their commitment to innovation and safety delivers long-term value and peace of mind for operators.

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2016 Blue Bird All American School Bus

1000400

Experience optimal school transport with the 2016 Blue Bird All American School Bus, designed for safety, reliability, and comfort for up to 54 passengers. Built on a robust chassis and powered by a proven Cummins ISB 6.7L Turbo Charged Diesel engine paired with an Allison automatic transmission, this bus delivers a fleet-ready solution that minimizes downtime and ensures a low total cost of ownership (TCO) for public schools, private institutions, and fleet operators alike. The durable construction and spacious interior provide a secure, comfortable ride for students, employees, or camp attendees, making this vehicle perfect for daily routes, field trips, or employee shuttles. With just miles, this bus stands as a dependable addition to any transportation fleet, ready to serve a variety of needs including jobsite, agriculture, and summer camp transport.

Blue Bird is renowned for its commitment to quality, safety, and innovative design in the school transportation industry. The All American model reflects decades of engineering excellence, making it a trusted choice for fleet buyers worldwide.

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2021 Chevrolet Girardin ADA School Bus

1000398

Experience fleet-ready versatility with the 2021 Chevrolet Express Girardin School Bus, designed for efficient and reliable school transport. With wheelchair accessibility, this bus is ideal for accommodating a wide range of passengers, including students, adults, employees, and jobsite crews. The spacious Girardin body style paired with a robust Gas V8 engine ensures low TCO and dependable performance for daily routes or special assignments.

Chevrolet is renowned for building durable, reliable chassis that fleet buyers trust for long-term operation. The Girardin body is engineered for safety and comfort, making it a preferred choice for school districts, camps, and organizations that prioritize both performance and passenger well-being.

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2016 Ford E450 Girardin School Bus

1000397

Experience a superior solution for school transport and fleet operations with the 2016 Ford Girardin School Bus, featuring a reliable Triton 5.4L V8 gas engine and smooth automatic transmission. With seating for up to 30 passengers, this fleet-ready bus is ideal for public and private schools, daycare centers, summer camps, and employee transport. Its robust chassis is engineered for consistent performance, making it a dependable choice for daily routes or special events. The Girardin body design optimizes safety and comfort, while the efficient gas-powered drivetrain ensures a low total cost of ownership for any fleet buyer or operator.

The Ford brand is renowned for its durability and proven reliability in commercial vehicles. Girardin's expertise in school bus construction delivers exceptional value and peace of mind for both drivers and passengers.

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2016 Chevrolet Collins School Bus

1000396

Meet the 2016 Chevrolet Express Collins School Bus, designed to deliver dependable, fleet-ready school transport for any organization that values safety and efficiency. With only 36,000 miles, this bus offers outstanding reliability for public or private schools, daycares, summer camps, employee shuttles, and more. Its robust Gas V8 engine and automatic transmission provide smooth, consistent performance, while the renowned Collins body ensures durability and long service life. The classic yellow exterior and medium pewter interior make this bus a welcoming and familiar environment for students, employees, and passengers alike.

Chevrolet is recognized for its commitment to quality engineering and lasting value, making this Express model a smart choice for organizations seeking low total cost of ownership (TCO). The Collins body brings trusted craftsmanship and proven safety to every journey.

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2015 Chevrolet 4500 Collins School Bus

1000391

Discover dependable fleet-ready performance with the 2015 Chevrolet 4500 Collins School Bus—an excellent choice for schools, camps, and workforce transportation. Designed to maximize safety and comfort, this school bus features a robust gas V8 engine and a smooth automatic transmission, ensuring reliable daily operation across a range of transport needs. The iconic yellow exterior enhances visibility for added safety, while the durable Collins body is engineered for long service life and low total cost of ownership (TCO).

With only 40,000 miles, this bus stands out as a smart investment for expanding or upgrading your school transport or employee shuttle fleet. The trusted Chevrolet chassis sets the standard for reliability, making it ideal for both student and adult passenger applications. Whether you’re moving children to school, employees to job sites, or groups to special events, the 2015 Chevrolet 4500 is ready for the demands of everyday fleet operation.

Chevrolet is renowned for building rugged, durable vehicles tailored for fleet operators. The Collins body delivers a proven record of safety and functionality in school bus design.

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2020 Chevrolet Microbird School Bus

1000387

Discover the 2020 Chevrolet Express Micro Bird School Bus, a fleet-ready solution tailored for safe and efficient school transport. Built on Chevrolet’s reliable chassis, this bus is designed to deliver peace of mind and low total cost of ownership (TCO) for schools, camps, businesses, and fleet operators. With its robust Gas V8 engine and automatic transmission, it provides dependable performance for daily routes, accommodating students, employees, or jobsite crews with ease. The signature yellow exterior ensures high visibility, while the Medium Pewter interior offers a comfortable environment for all passengers.

Chevrolet is renowned for its commitment to durability and innovation in fleet vehicles, making it a trusted partner for transportation professionals. The Micro Bird body combines safety, efficiency, and comfort, making every journey secure and enjoyable.

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2022 Chevrolet Thomas ADA School Bus

1000385

Maximize your fleet's efficiency and inclusivity with the 2022 Chevrolet Express Thomas School Bus, engineered for optimal school transport and employee shuttle applications. This fleet-ready vehicle features a robust Gas V8 engine, automatic transmission, and renowned Thomas Built Buses construction—ensuring a reliable chassis and low TCO for long-term operational savings. Its classic yellow exterior and thoughtfully designed medium pewter interior offer an inviting and professional presence for public or private schools, daycare centers, camps, and workforce transport.

ADA-compliant, the bus provides wheelchair access and securement, promoting accessibility for all riders, including students, adults, and employees. Chevrolet stands for durability and performance, while Thomas Built Buses are known for their safety and quality craftsmanship. This combination delivers peace of mind and dependable service, mile after mile. With 127,000 miles, this school bus is ready to serve as a reliable addition to any fleet, supporting a wide range of transport needs for both children and adults.

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2020 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner C2 School Bus

1000325

Presenting the 2020 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 School Bus, a fleet-ready solution designed to deliver safe, reliable school transport for up to 53 passengers. Built on a robust 6.7L Cummins engine paired with a smooth automatic transmission, this bus is engineered for dependable performance and low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it an excellent choice for public and private schools, employee transport, camps, and fleet operators seeking long-term value. The Saf-T-Liner C2 features a rear air ride suspension and Bendix air dryer with heat, ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride for children, students, employees, and jobsite crews alike.

Thomas is renowned for its commitment to safety and durability, consistently delivering vehicles that exceed industry standards. The Saf-T-Liner C2 exemplifies this legacy, offering a reliable chassis and thoughtful design features for daily operations.

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Mileage 73,000
Passengers 53
Year 2020

2024 IC Bus Ce School Bus

1000257

The 2024 IC Bus CE School Bus is expertly engineered to serve as the cornerstone of any school or employee transport fleet. With just miles, this fleet-ready bus delivers exceptional reliability, safety, and efficiency for public schools, daycare centers, employee shuttles, and more. Built on a proven, reliable chassis, the IC Bus CE is designed to minimize total cost of ownership (TCO) while maximizing uptime, making it an outstanding investment for organizations seeking dependable school transport solutions.

IC Bus is renowned for its focus on passenger safety, robust construction, and innovation in the school bus industry. The CE model exemplifies their commitment to creating reliable transport vehicles that offer peace of mind to operators and riders alike. Trust IC Bus to deliver a product that stands up to the demands of daily service, year after year.

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2016 Chevrolet Collins Dh500 School Bus

1000092

Enhance your school transport or employee shuttle operations with the 2016 Chevrolet DH500 Collins School Bus, purpose-built for safety, comfort, and dependability. Featuring a robust Chevy gasoline engine and smooth automatic transmission, this 26-passenger vehicle is ideal for public and private schools, daycares, camps, workforce transport, and fleet buyers seeking fleet-ready solutions. The Collins body is renowned for its durability and efficient design, offering easy entry and exit for students and adults alike. With a focus on low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), this bus delivers outstanding value and operational reliability, minimizing downtime and keeping your routes running smoothly. The reliable chassis ensures consistent performance, making it a trusted asset for school bus fleet operators and organizations requiring dependable, daily transport for children and employees.

Chevrolet is recognized for building vehicles that combine strength and innovation, and the Collins partnership results in a school bus that exceeds expectations in safety and reliability. Trust in a brand that supports your mission of safe, efficient transportation.

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2015 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus

1000090

Experience exceptional fleet-ready performance with the 2015 Blue Bird All American Activity Bus, engineered for versatile school transport and employee shuttle needs. With a robust Cummins 6.7L ISB diesel engine and reliable automatic transmission, this bus is designed to deliver maximum uptime and low TCO for fleet operators. Accommodating up to 44 passengers, it’s ideal for transporting students, day campers, employees, or construction crews comfortably and safely, making it a smart choice for public and private schools, daycare programs, summer camps, and corporate fleets. The spacious interior ensures every rider enjoys a secure and pleasant journey, while the trusted Blue Bird chassis underpins long-term reliability and performance in daily operations.

Blue Bird is renowned for its dedication to safety, durability, and innovative design in the bus industry. The All American model exemplifies these qualities, providing confidence and peace of mind for fleet managers and riders alike.

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2016 Chevrolet Express Collins ADA School Bus

1000088

Meet your next fleet-ready solution for safe and efficient school transport: the 2016 Chevrolet Express Collins ADA School Bus. Designed to accommodate 21 passengers and equipped with wheelchair access, this bus is ideal for public and private schools, daycare centers, summer camps, and employee shuttle services requiring accessibility. Built on the dependable Chevrolet Express chassis, it delivers reliable performance and low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it an excellent investment for fleet buyers and school bus operators.

The Collins body is well-known for its robust construction and thoughtful engineering, ensuring every ride is both comfortable and secure for students, adults, and employees alike. Chevrolet is celebrated for its reliability and strong chassis, providing peace of mind with every mile. The Express model brings proven durability and versatility, perfectly suited to a variety of transport needs.

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2015 Blue Bird Vision Activity Bus

1000083

Experience reliable and efficient school transport with the 2015 Blue Bird Vision Activity Bus, designed to deliver fleet-ready performance for a wide array of organizations. With a robust diesel engine and automatic transmission, this bus seats up to 40 passengers, making it ideal for schools, employee shuttles, camps, and jobsite crews. The Blue Bird Vision is engineered for low total cost of ownership (TCO) and long-term dependability, ensuring your fleet operates smoothly and efficiently for years to come. Its proven chassis provides a stable, secure ride for students, adults, and employees alike, prioritizing safety and comfort on every journey.

Blue Bird is renowned for building durable and trustworthy buses that school districts and fleet operators depend on daily. Their commitment to innovation and quality craftsmanship is evident in every model, ensuring your organization benefits from exceptional value and performance.

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2015 Ford E350 School Bus

1000027

Discover the fleet-ready 2015 Ford E350 School Bus, designed to deliver safe and efficient school transport for students, employees, and adults alike. With seating for 14 passengers, this bus is an ideal solution for public and private schools, daycare centers, summer camps, and workforce shuttle operations. The dependable 5.4L V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission ensures smooth, reliable performance, making it a smart choice for organizations seeking low TCO and long-term value in their fleet.

Ford is renowned for building vehicles with reliable chassis and robust engineering, making the E350 a trusted choice for demanding transport needs. Experience the peace of mind and operational efficiency that comes with a Ford fleet vehicle.

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2012 Thomas C2 81P

51816

Discover reliable performance and spacious capacity with this 2012 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking efficiency and durability. Powered by a robust Cummins diesel engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, this bus delivers smooth, dependable operation ideal for daily routes. With seating for 81 passengers, it offers ample room for large groups, making it perfect for schools, shuttle services, or community transport. The vehicle features advanced safety and comfort elements including air brakes, an engine brake, and rear air suspension, ensuring a stable and controlled ride. Its Thomas Built Buses body is known for quality construction and longevity, providing a solid foundation for years of service. With 141,246 miles on the odometer, this bus is road-proven and ready to meet your transportation needs with confidence.

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Mileage 141,246
Passengers 81
Year 2012

2012 Thomas C2 81P

51815

Discover reliable performance and robust build quality with this 2012 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking efficiency and durability. Powered by a dependable Cummins diesel engine and paired with an automatic transmission, this bus delivers smooth, consistent operation ideal for daily routes. With seating for up to 81 passengers, it offers ample capacity for schools, shuttle services, or group transportation needs. The Thomas Built Buses body ensures a solid, safety-focused design, complemented by advanced air brakes and an engine brake system for enhanced control and stopping power. Rear air suspension provides a comfortable ride experience, reducing road vibrations and improving passenger comfort. This vehicle has accumulated 167,772 miles, reflecting its road-proven reliability and readiness to continue serving your transportation demands. A practical, well-engineered bus that balances capacity, performance, and safety features to support your fleet’s success.

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Mileage 167,772
Passengers 81
Year 2012

2011 Thomas C2 81P

51814

Discover reliable performance and spacious capacity with this 2011 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking durability and efficiency. Powered by a robust Cummins diesel engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, this bus delivers smooth, dependable operation ideal for daily routes. With seating for 81 passengers, it offers ample room for large groups, making it perfect for schools, shuttle services, or community transport. The Thomas Built Buses body ensures a solid build quality, while air brakes and rear air suspension provide enhanced safety and a comfortable ride. This vehicle has accumulated 211,000 miles, reflecting its road-proven reliability and readiness to continue serving your transportation needs. A practical, well-engineered bus designed to support your fleet with consistent performance and passenger capacity.

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Mileage 211,000
Passengers 81
Year 2011

2016 Thomas C2 77P Air Con

51772

Florida Spec 2016 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner 77-Passenger Air Conditioned Yellow School Bus, a robust bus designed to meet the demands of any fleet. Powered by a trusted Cummins diesel engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, this vehicle ensures smooth and dependable performance on every route. With seating for 77 passengers, it offers ample capacity for school or group transportation needs. The dual high-capacity air conditioning system keeps passengers comfortable in all climates, while the inclusion of seat belts enhances safety for every rider. Built on the renowned Thomas Built Buses body, this model features air brakes and rear air suspension for superior handling and ride quality. Florida spec adds an extra layer of suitability for warm-weather operations. A practical choice for fleet operators seeking durability, comfort, and safety in one package.

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Mileage 139,951
Passengers 77
Year 2016

2011 Thomas C2 81P

51745

Discover the reliable performance and spacious capacity of this 2011 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking durability and efficiency. Powered by a robust Mercedes Benz diesel engine paired with an automatic transmission, this bus delivers smooth, dependable operation ideal for daily routes. With seating for up to 81 passengers, it offers ample room for schools, shuttle services, or group transportation needs. The Thomas Built Buses body ensures a solid build quality, while air brakes and rear air suspension provide enhanced safety and a comfortable ride for all occupants. This vehicle has logged 145,220 miles, reflecting its road-proven reliability and readiness to serve your fleet for years to come. A practical, well-engineered bus designed to meet the demands of commercial transportation with confidence.

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Mileage 145,220
Passengers 81
Year 2011

2018 Thomas Saf-T Liner C2 77P

51729

Discover the reliable and efficient 2018 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking durability and comfort. Powered by a robust Cummins diesel engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, this bus delivers smooth, dependable performance ideal for daily routes. Designed with passenger safety in mind, it features seat belts for all 77 passengers and advanced air brakes for superior stopping power. The rear air suspension ensures a comfortable ride, while the Florida specification build guarantees suitability for warm climates with efficient air conditioning. The title for this vehicle shows not actual miles but we have confirmed the miles are correct. This Thomas Built Bus is road-proven and ready to serve your transportation needs with confidence and ease.

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Mileage 143,464
Passengers 77
Year 2018
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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.

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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