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 Thomas C2 School Bus

33897

The 2021 Thomas C2 School Bus is the epitome of fleet-ready school transport, designed to efficiently serve public and private schools, day/summer camps, and various transport needs. With a capacity to accommodate up to 77 passengers, this bus is ideal for transporting students and employees alike. Its reliable Cummins Diesel engine ensures consistent performance, while the robust chassis is built for durability, offering a low total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleet operators. Although it lacks air conditioning, the equipped air brakes provide paramount safety on every journey.

Thomas Built Buses have been a hallmark of innovation and reliability in the school bus industry. Their commitment to safety and durability makes them a preferred choice for fleet buyers and school bus operators globally.

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Mileage 56,457
Passengers 77
Year 2021

2021 Thomas C2 School Bus

33862

The 2021 Thomas C2 77 is an outstanding choice for schools, transportation operators, and businesses seeking a fleet-ready solution that promises reliability and low total cost of ownership (TCO). With a robust Detroit DD5 engine, this bus is designed to deliver exceptional performance and reliability, making it ideal for transporting students, employees, and other passengers safely and efficiently. The spacious interior comfortably accommodates 77 passengers, providing a secure and comfortable ride for all occupants. Its reliable chassis ensures durability and longevity, making it a wise investment for any fleet operator looking to enhance their transport capabilities.

The Thomas brand, known for its commitment to quality and innovation, ensures that every journey is smooth and hassle-free.

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Passengers 77
Year 2021

2022 Thomas C2 School Bus

33809

Introducing the 2022 Thomas C2 School Bus, a fleet-ready solution for all your school transport needs. This robust bus is designed with a reliable chassis to ensure safety and comfort for up to 77 passengers, making it ideal for public and private schools, as well as employee transport and day camps.

Thomas is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability, making it a top choice for fleet operators seeking reliable transportation solutions.

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Mileage 68,000
Passengers 77
Year 2022

2021 Thomas EFX School Bus

33798

The 2021 Thomas EFX School Bus is a fleet-ready school bus engineered for optimal school transport solutions. With a seating capacity for 83 passengers, it is ideal for public and private schools, daycare centers, and employee transportation services. The bus is powered by a reliable Cummins B6.7 engine, ensuring a dependable ride every time. Its low total cost of ownership (TCO) makes it a cost-effective choice for fleet operators looking to maximize efficiency and reliability. Built on a durable chassis, this bus promises a long service life, making it a wise investment for any fleet.

Thomas is renowned for its robust and efficient engines, providing unmatched reliability and performance in the automotive industry. Their commitment to quality ensures that you receive a vehicle that stands the test of time.

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Passengers 83
Year 2021

2014 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus

33716

The 2014 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus is the epitome of fleet-ready, reliable school transport. With a spacious capacity to accommodate 77 passengers, this bus is ideal for public schools, private institutions, employee transport, and more. Featuring a robust 6.7L V6 Cummins ISB engine, combined with a 5-Speed Allison Automatic transmission, it ensures a smooth and efficient ride every time. The bus is equipped with essential amenities like air-operated entrance door, air ride driver’s seat, and a comprehensive PA system to enhance the travel experience. Safety is paramount with high back bench seats, each featuring three seat belts, a child reminder system, and STOP indicator signs to ensure student safety. The Thomas Built brand is renowned for delivering school buses with low TCO and a reliable chassis, making it a preferred choice among fleet operators.

Thomas Built Buses is a leader in providing durable and innovative school transportation solutions. Their commitment to quality and safety makes them a trusted partner for educational and transport needs.

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Mileage 144,000
Passengers 77
Year 2014

2016 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus

33710

Experience the pinnacle of school transport efficiency with the 2016 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus. Designed for both reliability and comfort, this fleet-ready bus features a robust 6.7L V6 Cummins ISB engine paired with a 5-speed Allison automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth and powerful drive. With a seating capacity for 77 passengers, it is ideal for public and private schools, as well as employee transport and daycare services. The low TCO and reliable chassis make it a perfect choice for fleet buyers and operators seeking long-term value.

Thomas Built is renowned for its commitment to safety and durability, making it a trusted name in the school transport industry. Their buses are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use, offering peace of mind to operators and passengers alike.

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Mileage 120,000
Passengers 77
Year 2016

2018 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus

33699

The 2018 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus is a fleet-ready solution for your school transport needs. With a reliable Cummins ISB 6.7L V6 engine and an Allison 2000 automatic transmission, this diesel-powered bus promises durability and low TCO for fleet operators. Designed to accommodate 77 passengers, it features high back bench seats and three seat belts per seat, ensuring maximum safety for students and employees alike. The air-operated entrance door and air ride driver's seat enhance comfort and ease of operation.

Thomas Built is renowned for its commitment to safety and reliability in school bus manufacturing. Their buses are constructed with a focus on quality and innovation, providing peace of mind to fleet operators.

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Mileage 133,471
Passengers 77
Year 2018

2011 Thomas Minotour ADA School Bus

33617

The 2011 Thomas Minotour ADA School Bus is a versatile and fleet-ready vehicle designed to meet all your school transport needs. Its robust and reliable chassis is equipped to handle up to 6 passengers and 4 wheelchair seats, making it ideal for schools, employee transport, and day camps. The gas-powered GM engine paired with an automatic transmission ensures a smooth and efficient ride, while hydraulic brakes and suspension enhance safety and comfort. With air conditioning, a heater, and an audio system, passengers can enjoy a pleasant journey in any weather. The Child Check-Mate system adds an extra layer of security for peace of mind.

Thomas is a renowned brand in the transportation industry, known for its commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. Their buses are built to provide a low total cost of ownership (TCO) and long-lasting reliability.

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Mileage 72,089
Passengers 6
Year 2011

2010 Thomas Freightliner School Bus

33192

Introducing the 2010 Thomas Freightliner School Bus, the perfect solution for your fleet-ready school transport needs. Designed to carry up to 66 passengers, this bus is ideal for transporting students, employees, or work crews safely and efficiently. With a reliable chassis and a robust Mercedes-Benz MBE-900 diesel engine, this school bus promises low TCO and dependable performance for years to come.

Thomas is renowned for its commitment to safety, reliability, and innovation. Their school buses are crafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring a trustworthy ride for passengers of all ages.

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Mileage 137,711
Passengers 66
Year 2010

2004 Thomas MVP-EF School Bus

33179

The 2004 Thomas Built MVP-EF is a fleet-ready solution designed to meet the rigorous demands of school transport and employee commuting. Equipped with a durable and reliable chassis, this bus ensures smooth and safe rides for students, children, adults, and employees alike. Its robust design is complemented by the renowned Allison MD3060P 5-speed transmission, providing reliable performance and low total cost of ownership (TCO). With a GVWR of 36,200 lbs, it is tailored for heavy-duty transport needs, making it an ideal choice for public schools, private schools, and fleet operators. The diesel-powered engine ensures efficiency and strength, making long-distance travel economical and dependable.

Thomas Built is a respected name in the transportation industry, known for its commitment to safety and durability. Their buses are engineered to provide comfort and reliability, ensuring a superior transport experience.

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Mileage 163,540
Year 2004

2005 Thomas Built Buses Mvp-Ef School Bus

33168

Discover exceptional reliability and fleet-ready performance with the 2005 Thomas Built MVP-EF School Bus, designed to meet the demanding needs of school districts, employee transport services, and fleet operators. Equipped with a robust diesel engine and a proven Allison MD3060P 5-speed automatic transmission, this bus delivers dependable daily performance and low total cost of ownership (TCO) for your organization. The generous lb GVWR and spacious interior make it ideal for safely transporting students, employees, or work crews, while its reliable chassis ensures peace of mind on every route.

Thomas Built is renowned for manufacturing school buses that are engineered for safety, durability, and efficiency. Their commitment to quality has made them a trusted name in school transport solutions for decades.

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Mileage 151,362
Year 2005

2007 Thomas Saf-T-Liner School Bus

33146

The 2007 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner Bus is a pinnacle of reliability and efficiency, perfect for school transport and fleet-ready operations. Designed with a robust 4x2 chassis, this bus ensures a low TCO while providing ample space with a passenger capacity of 84. Its 276-inch wheelbase and a GVWR of 36,200 pounds make it ideal for safe and stable rides, catering to students, children, adults, and employees alike. Equipped with a durable Allison 3000 RDS-P transmission with 6 speeds, this bus is designed to handle daily demands seamlessly. The air conditioning system ensures comfort even during the hottest days, while the pass-thru luggage compartments add convenience for longer trips.

Thomas Built is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in the school bus industry. With decades of experience, they continue to set standards for safety and efficiency.

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Mileage 198,245
Year 2007

2007 Thomas MVP FE School Bus

33089

Experience fleet-ready dependability with the 2007 Thomas Built MVP FE Bus, designed specifically for efficient school transport and employee commuting. This robust vehicle is built on a reliable chassis, ensuring safety and reliability for all passengers, whether they are students, employees, or jobsite workers. With a GVWR of 33,000 lbs and powered by a durable Allison 2500 RDS-P transmission, this bus is engineered for low TCO, providing an economical solution for fleet operators. Its 5-speed transmission ensures smooth and consistent performance on all terrains, making it an ideal choice for both public and private sectors.

Thomas Built is renowned for its commitment to quality and safety, making it a trusted name in the school bus industry. Their buses are designed with a focus on durability, ensuring longevity and reliability for all transportation needs.

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Mileage 117,962
Year 2007

2007 Thomas FS65 School Bus

33077

Discover the 2007 Thomas FS65, a fleet-ready standard school bus designed to meet all your transportation needs. Equipped with a reliable Mercedes MBE engine and an efficient Allison transmission, this bus is built to deliver a low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it an ideal choice for public and private schools, employee transport, and day/summer camps. Its robust construction features air brakes for enhanced safety, and tinted windows for added comfort and privacy. The manual entry door ensures ease of access for passengers, accommodating 48 students or 32 adults comfortably.

Thomas buses are renowned for their durability and reliability, offering superior performance on the road. With a focus on safety and comfort, Thomas has been a trusted name in school transport for years.

Contact for Price
Mileage 308,759
Year 2007

2008 Thomas Built MVP-EF School Bus

33048

The 2008 Thomas Built MVP-EF Bus is expertly crafted to meet all your school transport and employee shuttle needs. With its robust and reliable chassis, this bus is fleet-ready, offering a low total cost of ownership (TCO) for school districts and businesses alike. Powered by a dependable diesel engine and a smooth 5-speed Allison 2500 RDS-P transmission, this bus ensures efficient and reliable transportation for students, children, adults, and workers across various sectors, from construction crews to agriculture employees.

Thomas Built is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability in the school bus industry. Known for manufacturing buses that prioritize safety and reliability, Thomas Built is a trusted brand that operators depend on.

Contact for Price
Mileage 126,792
Year 2008

2010 Thomas Built Buses C2 Sped School Bus ADA

33034

Introducing the 2010 Thomas C2 SPED School Bus—a fleet-ready solution designed for schools, organizations, and employers seeking safe, efficient, and versatile school transport. With a reliable Cummins diesel engine paired with an Allison 2500PTS transmission, this bus delivers the dependable performance required for daily routes, employee shuttles, and specialized transportation needs. Featuring a capacity of 33 passengers plus 3 wheelchair positions, it is equipped with an operational wheelchair lift, ensuring accessibility for all riders, including students and adults with mobility needs. The air brake system and robust chassis contribute to low TCO and peace of mind for fleet operators, while new batteries and a powerful AC system keep the bus running smoothly and comfortably in all seasons.

Thomas is a trusted name in school and specialty bus manufacturing, known for building vehicles prioritizing safety and reliability. The C2 series reflects Thomas's commitment to innovation and performance for demanding fleet requirements.

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Mileage 113,600
Passengers 33
Year 2010

2016 Thomas C2 ADA School Bus

33018

The 2016 Thomas C2 ADA is a versatile and dependable transport solution tailored for a range of riders, including students, employees, and special needs passengers. Featuring a robust Cummins 6.7L 260 engine paired with the Allison 3000PTS transmission, this bus promises a reliable and efficient performance. Its air brake system ensures safety, while the air driver's seat and rear heater provide comfort during long journeys. With a fuel capacity of 60 gallons, it's designed for extended trips. The tinted windows enhance privacy and comfort, and the AC system maintains a pleasant environment regardless of the weather conditions. Built on a reliable chassis, the Thomas C2 is fleet-ready and offers a low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it an ideal choice for schools, camps, and corporate transport solutions.

Thomas Built Buses is known for its commitment to safety, durability, and innovative transport solutions. With years of experience, Thomas continues to set the standard in the bus manufacturing industry.

Contact for Price
Mileage 122,000
Passengers 51
Year 2016

2017 Thomas Saf T Liner 2 Freightliner School Bus

33012

The 2017 Freightliner Thomas Safe T Liner 2 is a fleet-ready solution designed for optimal school transport and employee commutes. With its reliable chassis and low TCO, this bus is a perfect fit for public and private schools, tech/trade schools, and fleet buyers. Capable of comfortably seating 72 passengers, it ensures a smooth and secure ride for students, children, adults, and workers alike. The robust Cummins engine guarantees performance and reliability, making it a preferred choice for fleet operators and export buyers.

Freightliner/Thomas is renowned for its commitment to safety and durability in the transportation industry. Their buses are engineered to deliver exceptional performance, ensuring peace of mind for operators and passengers.

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Mileage 146,000
Passengers 72
Year 2017

2018 Thomas Built Buses C2 School Bus

33006

Introducing the 2018 Thomas C2 School Bus, a fleet-ready solution designed to deliver efficient school transport for a variety of organizations, including public and private schools, employee shuttles, summer camps, and more. This reliable bus seats up to 48 passengers (32 adults), making it ideal for transporting students, children, adults, or employees safely and comfortably. Built on a dependable chassis and powered by a robust Cummins diesel engine paired with an Allison 2500PTS transmission, this model is known for its low TCO and long-term reliability. Key comfort features include air brakes, power mirrors, an air driver seat, air entrance door, rear heater, air conditioning, and tinted windows for enhanced passenger comfort. A white roof helps keep the cabin cool during warmer months. With miles, this bus delivers proven performance and is ready to serve your fleet's needs with confidence and efficiency.

Thomas is renowned for its commitment to durability, safety, and innovation in school bus manufacturing. The C2 model stands out in the industry for its strong chassis and advanced passenger amenities.

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Mileage 107,950
Passengers 48
Year 2018

2021 Thomas EFX School Bus

32981

The 2021 Thomas EFX 83 is a fleet-ready bus designed for efficient school transport and employee commuting needs. With a reliable chassis and a robust Cummins 220 diesel engine, this bus ensures a low total cost of ownership (TCO) while delivering exceptional performance. Its spacious interior can accommodate up to 83 passengers, making it ideal for public and private schools, employee transport, and day camps. The bus is engineered to provide a safe and comfortable ride for students, children, adults, employees, construction crews, and more.

Thomas Built Buses, a leading name in the school transportation industry, is known for its commitment to safety and innovation. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, Thomas continues to deliver buses that meet the evolving needs of transportation providers.

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Mileage 86,818
Passengers 83
Year 2021

2014 Thomas Built Buses C2 School Bus ADA

32926

Experience exceptional fleet-ready performance with this 2014 Thomas C2 School Bus, purpose-built for dependable school transport, employee shuttling, and community mobility needs. Designed on a reliable Freightliner chassis and powered by a robust Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel engine, this bus delivers impressive power and proven durability for daily routes. The smooth-shifting Allison automatic transmission ensures ease of operation, while air brakes and rear air ride suspension offer enhanced safety and comfort for both driver and riders. With seating for up to 34 passengers, plus a rear wheelchair lift, this bus is ADA-compliant and perfectly suited for transporting students, employees, adults, and individuals with mobility needs.

Thomas is a trusted leader in the bus industry, known for quality engineering and long-lasting construction. The C2 model is synonymous with reliability and a low total cost of ownership, making it a smart investment for any fleet operator.

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Mileage 167,600
Passengers 34
Year 2014

2004 Thomas HDX School Bus

32780

Introducing the 2004 Thomas HDX School Bus, a fleet-ready solution for all your school transport needs. With a seating capacity of up to 78 passengers, this bus is designed for efficiency and reliability, making it an ideal choice for public or private schools, employee transport, and more. Powered by a dependable Cummins CNG engine, it offers a low total cost of ownership (TCO) while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The automatic transmission and robust chassis guarantee a smooth and safe ride for students, children, and adults alike.

Thomas Built Buses, a leader in the school transportation industry, is renowned for its commitment to safety, innovation, and reliability. This 2004 Thomas HDX model continues that tradition, providing a reliable and efficient transport solution for various fleet operators.

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Mileage 164,628
Passengers 78
Year 2004

2014 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner C2 School Bus

32670

Introducing the 2014 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2, a fleet-ready solution for all your school transport needs. Designed to accommodate up to 53 passengers, this vehicle offers a reliable chassis and a low total cost of ownership (TCO), making it an ideal choice for schools, camps, and employee transport. Powered by a robust 6.7L Cummins engine delivering 220 horsepower, paired with a smooth A2500 automatic transmission, this bus ensures a comfortable and efficient ride for students, children, adults, and employees alike.

Thomas, a renowned name in the bus manufacturing industry, is known for its commitment to safety and durability. The Saf-T-Liner C2 model exemplifies Thomas's dedication to providing reliable and efficient transportation solutions.

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Mileage 34,000
Passengers 53
Year 2014

2014 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 School Bus

32667

Experience the robust capabilities of the 2014 Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2, a fleet-ready school transport solution designed for seamless operations. With a seating capacity of 53 passengers, this bus is equipped with a powerful 6.7L Cummins engine delivering 220 horsepower, ensuring a reliable and smooth journey every time. Its automatic A2500 transmission complements the engine's performance for ease of driving, making it ideal for school transport and employee commuting needs.

Thomas Built Buses is renowned for their dedication to quality and safety, making them a trusted choice among school bus fleet operators. The Saf-T-Liner C2 model showcases their commitment to providing dependable and low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) solutions.

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Mileage 54,052
Passengers 53
Year 2014
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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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