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
Sort by

2017 Bluebird All American 84P

10671

2017 Bluebird All American FE 84 Passenger School Bus that was recently retired from daily school bus fleet use. One owner and fleet maintained since new. Perfect for any school, university or company looking to move large groups of students or employees. Cummins diesel, tinted glass, air brakes and all service records.

$45,000
Mileage 120000
Passengers 84
Year 2017

2018 Chevrolet 3500 Collins School Bus

10277

This 2018 Chevy Collins school minibus offers seating for 28 passengers, providing a practical and reliable option for school transportation.

 It is powered by a strong 6.0L V8 gas engine and features hydraulic brakes for smooth operation. With air conditioning for added comfort and 81,056 miles on the odometer, this well-maintained minibus is an excellent choice to meet your transportation needs.

$55,000
Mileage 81056
Passengers 28
Year 2018

2020 International IC CE School Bus

10252

This 2020 International ICCE is a reliable and versatile vehicle designed for both urban and long-haul transportation needs. With only 68,662 miles on the odometer, it offers a balance of performance and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those seeking durability and comfort in their transport solutions. Its robust build and advanced safety features ensure a smooth and secure driving experience.

$75,000
Mileage 68662
Passengers 77
Year 2020

2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

10247

2022 Blue Bird Vision 77 Passenger School Bus with air brakes and a gasoline powered engine. Low miles and nearly new.

$89,000
Mileage 42000
Passengers 77
Year 2022

10 Bus Package Deal 2011 Blue Bird Visions

10239

The 2011 Blue Bird Vision School Buses offer a reliable and efficient solution for large-scale student transportation needs. This bulk lot includes 10 buses, each designed to accommodate 72 passengers, making them perfect for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers seeking a secure and efficient fleet. Powered by Cummins Diesel engines and equipped with Allison Automatic transmissions, these buses ensure smooth and dependable performance for daily transport needs. Their durable construction and comfortable seating make them an excellent choice for community outreach programs and summer camps looking for a reliable fleet of school buses.


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 efficiency, making it a preferred choice for school transportation.


Notable Features

Bulk Lot: Includes 10 Blue Bird Vision School Buses, each capable of seating 72 passengers, ideal for large-scale transportation needs.

Safety and Reliability: All buses are equipped with air brakes and battery cut-off switches, enhancing safety and compliance with transportation standards.

Ready for Use: These buses are ready for immediate use, providing a seamless solution for expanding transportation capacity.


Additional Specifications

Engine: Cummins Diesel

Transmission: Allison Automatic

$125,000
Mileage 0
Passengers 72
Year 2011

2010 Chevrolet 3500 Mini School Bus

10180

2010 Chevrolet 3500 Thomas Built 24-Passenger Mini School Bus with a 6.0L V8 gasoline engine and equipped with an automatic transmission, rear air conditioning and more. Its compact design and thoughtful features make it an excellent choice for day camps, daycare facilities, schools and churches looking for a versatile mini bus.

$9,900
Mileage 119000
Passengers 24
Year 2010

2017 Blue Bird Vision Propane School Buses

10084

The 2017 Blue Bird Vision Propane School Bus is an eco-friendly and reliable vehicle designed to accommodate 48 passengers, making it ideal for public school districts, private schools, and special education transport providers. With its propane-operated engine, this bus offers a sustainable transportation solution while maintaining the safety and durability expected for student transport. it provides great value for those seeking a school bus that combines efficiency with environmental responsibility.


Blue Bird is a trusted name in the school bus industry, known for producing durable and reliable vehicles. The Vision model stands out with its eco-friendly propane fuel technology and robust construction, making it a preferred choice for school transportation.


Notable Features

Eco-Friendly Propane Engine: Offers a sustainable transportation solution with reduced emissions and fuel costs.

Passenger Comfort: Features high-back vinyl seats and a cloth driver's seat, providing a comfortable travel experience.

Safety and Reliability: Built with a durable design and grab handle in the step well, ensuring safety and ease of access for passengers.

Clean Aesthetic: Boasts clean yellow paint and the signature green Blue Bird logo for propane buses, maintaining a professional appearance.


Additional Specifications

Availability: 29 buses available

$30,000
Passengers 48
Year 2017

2014 Freightliner Thomas 72P

8837587

2014 Freightliner Thomas C2 Saf-T-Liner 72-Passenger School Bus powered by a Cummins Diesel engine. These units has air brakes, air door and more. They were recently retired from daily school bus fleet use and are ready to get back to work. Perfect for public schools, privtae schools, daycare, camps, employee transport, fleet operators or any export clients looking for fleets of used school buses for large projects.

Contact for Price
Mileage 99000
Passengers 72
Year 2014

2017 Thomas C2 39P NJ Spec AC

951655

Discover the reliable and efficient 2017 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner 39-Passenger Air Conditioned New Jersey Spec School Bus, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking durability and comfort. This Cummins diesel-powered bus features an automatic transmission for smooth handling and ease of operation. With a seating capacity of 39 passengers, it is ideal for school transportation, shuttle services, or group travel. Equipped with air conditioning and seat belts on every seat, it ensures passenger comfort and safety on every trip. The Thomas Built Buses body is known for its robust construction and long-lasting performance. 

Contact for Price
Mileage 88163
Passengers 39
Year 2017

Cummins 2016 International CE 72P

951367

2016 International CE 72-Passenger School Bus with a Cummins Diesel engine, air brakes, air door, Allison automatic transmission and more. One owner, fleet maintained since new and ready to go right now without delay. No waiting. No ordering. In Stock Now. Multiple units available. this bus perfect for any private school, public school, charter school, summer camp program, campus transport, churches, job site transport companies or any fleet operator looking to offer mass transportation options.

Contact for Price
Mileage 130632
Passengers 72
Year 2016

2012 Blue Bird Vision 72P

928038

2012 Blue Bird Vision 72 Passenger full size yellow school bus. Fresh from daily school bus fleet use and ready to go. Powered by Cummins diesel engine and Allison automatic transmission. One owner and fleet maintained since new. Air brakes, air door. In stock now and ready to ship with no delay. Lcated in NJ 08067, near all major ports in Wilmington DE, Baltimore MD, New York and more. These used full size school buses are perfect for constuction crew and jobsite transport, agriculture work transport, private schools, daycares, day camps, school bus fleet operators and more.

Contact for Price
Mileage 163000
Passengers 72
Year 2012

8 In Stock 2017 Thomas C2 48P

728726

The 2017 Freightliner C2 Saf-T-Liner Thomas is a fleet-ready school bus designed to meet the needs of both public and private schools seeking reliable and cost-effective student transportation. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and equipped with air brakes, this 48-passenger bus ensures compliant transport for students across daily operations and extracurricular activities. With features like tinted glass and an audio system, it offers a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for schools aiming to maintain regulatory compliance while reducing dependency on rentals. 

Freightliner, a trusted name in the transportation industry, is renowned for its durable and dependable vehicles. Their collaboration with Thomas to produce this bus enhances its reputation for safety and robust construction. This partnership ensures that schools can invest in long-lasting transportation solutions, providing peace of mind to administrators and church leaders alike. The combination of Freightliner's engineering excellence and Thomas's focus on safety makes this bus an ideal investment for those looking to leverage school funds effectively.

Contact for Price
Mileage 120000
Passengers 48
Year 2017

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. With 143,464 miles, this Thomas Built Buses vehicle is road-proven and ready to serve your transportation needs with confidence and ease.

Contact for Price
Mileage 143464
Passengers 77
Year 2018

2016 Thomas C2 72P

51693

Discover the reliability and efficiency of this 2016 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking durable transportation solutions. Built by Thomas Built Buses, this diesel-powered vehicle offers a smooth automatic transmission and has logged 133,345 miles, demonstrating proven performance and longevity. With seating for up to 72 passengers, it is ideal for school districts, shuttle services, or group transportation needs. The robust design ensures safety and comfort, while its straightforward maintenance requirements help reduce downtime and operating costs. Although not ADA compliant, this bus remains a practical option for routes without accessibility demands. Invest in a dependable, well-maintained bus that balances capacity, efficiency, and operational value for your fleet.

Contact for Price
Mileage 133345
Passengers 72
Year 2016

2016 Thomas C2 72P

51682

Discover the reliable performance and spacious design of this 2016 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a trusted choice for fleet operators seeking efficiency and durability. Built by Thomas Built Buses, this diesel-powered vehicle features an automatic transmission and has logged 139,459 miles, demonstrating its proven roadworthiness. With seating for up to 72 passengers, it is ideal for school districts, shuttle services, or group transportation needs. The robust diesel engine ensures fuel efficiency and long-term cost savings, while the automatic transmission provides smooth handling and ease of operation. Although this model does not include ADA accessibility features, its straightforward design and solid build make it a practical addition to any fleet looking to expand capacity with a dependable bus. Invest in a vehicle that balances passenger comfort with operational reliability, backed by the reputable Thomas Built Buses brand.

Contact for Price
Mileage 139459
Passengers 72
Year 2016

2017 Thomas C2 72P

51678

Discover the reliable 2017 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner 72-Passenger School Bus, a durable and efficient diesel-powered bus designed to meet the demands of fleet operators and transportation providers. With seating for up to 72 passengers, this Thomas Built Bus model offers ample capacity for school routes, shuttle services, or group transportation. Its automatic transmission ensures smooth operation and ease of driving, reducing driver fatigue during long routes. Cummins diesel powered with hydraulic brakes, engine brake, power entry door, tinted glass and more.

Contact for Price
Mileage 104619
Passengers 72
Year 2017

2014 Chevrolet Minotour 21P ADA

51671

Discover the reliable 2014 Chevrolet Minotour, a versatile and efficient bus designed to meet the demands of modern fleet operations. Built on a trusted Thomas Built Buses body, this vehicle offers a comfortable seating capacity for 21 passengers, making it ideal for small group transportation, shuttle services, or specialized routes. Equipped with air conditioning and seat belts for every passenger, it ensures safety and comfort on every trip. The automatic transmission paired with a gasoline engine provides smooth handling and dependable performance. With 120,030 miles, this bus has been well-maintained and is ready to deliver consistent service. Additionally, its ADA compliance guarantees accessibility for all passengers, expanding your service capabilities. Whether upgrading your fleet or starting a new transportation venture, this Chevrolet Minotour offers a practical, cost-effective solution with proven durability and ease of operation.

Contact for Price
Mileage 120030
Passengers 21
Year 2014

2015 Chevrolet Minotour 24P

51670

Discover reliable transportation with this 2015 Chevrolet Express Thomas bus, designed to efficiently serve your fleet needs. Powered by a gasoline engine paired with an automatic transmission, this bus offers smooth and dependable performance. With seating for 24 passengers, it is ideal for small group transport, shuttle services, or private charters. The Thomas body ensures durability and safety, making it a trusted choice for operators seeking long-term value. Although not ADA compliant, this vehicle is perfect for routes and services where accessibility features are not required. With 158,092 miles, this bus has been well-maintained and is ready to provide consistent service for years to come. Its practical size and proven build make it a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to expand or upgrade their fleet with a dependable, easy-to-drive vehicle.

Contact for Price
Mileage 158092
Passengers 24
Year 2015

2015 Blue Bird Vision 72P

51666

Discover the reliable 2015 Blue Bird Vision, a durable diesel-powered bus designed to meet the demands of fleet operators and transportation providers. With seating for up to 72 passengers, this automatic transmission vehicle offers efficient and comfortable group travel. Although it does not feature air conditioning or ADA compliance, its robust Blue Bird body ensures long-lasting performance and ease of maintenance. Ideal for school districts, shuttle services, or community transport, this bus has logged 203,050 miles, reflecting its proven dependability on the road. Its straightforward design and trusted diesel engine make it a cost-effective choice for those seeking a practical, no-frills transportation solution.

Contact for Price
Mileage 203050
Passengers 72
Year 2015

2019 Thomas B2 30P ADA

51659

Discover the reliable and efficient 2019 THOMAS B2 bus, designed to meet the demands of modern fleet operations. This diesel-powered vehicle features an automatic transmission for smooth handling and reduced driver fatigue. With seating for 30 passengers, it offers an ideal balance between capacity and maneuverability, perfect for school routes, shuttle services, or community transport. Equipped with air conditioning and seat belts on every seat, it ensures passenger comfort and safety on every trip. The bus is ADA compliant, providing accessibility for all passengers. With just 66,464 miles, this well-maintained Thomas Built Bus is ready to deliver dependable service for years to come. Its robust build and trusted brand reputation make it a smart investment for operators seeking durability and value.

Contact for Price
Mileage 66464
Passengers 30
Year 2019

2019 Thomas C2 30P ADA

51657

Discover the 2019 THOMAS C2 Saf-T-Liner, a reliable and efficient bus designed to meet the demands of modern fleet operations. With a spacious capacity of 30 passengers, this vehicle offers a perfect balance of comfort and functionality. Equipped with air conditioning and seat belts for every seat, it ensures a safe and comfortable ride for all passengers. The automatic transmission paired with a durable diesel engine delivers smooth performance and fuel efficiency, reducing operational costs. Featuring ADA compliance, this bus is fully accessible, making it an excellent choice for inclusive transportation services. With just 54,867 miles, this well-maintained Thomas Built Buses vehicle is ready to provide dependable service for years to come. Ideal for schools, shuttle services, or community transport, the C2 Saf-T-Liner combines safety, comfort, and practicality in one trusted package.

Contact for Price
Mileage 54867
Passengers 30
Year 2019

2016 FORD E-350 Micro Bird 22P

51656

Discover a reliable and efficient transportation solution with this 2016 Ford E350 Blue Bird bus. Designed to comfortably seat up to 22 passengers, this vehicle is ideal for small group transport, shuttle services, or community programs. Powered by a gasoline engine paired with an automatic transmission, it offers smooth handling and dependable performance. With just over 50,000 miles, this bus has been well-maintained and is ready to serve your fleet needs. While it does not include air conditioning or ADA accessibility features, its straightforward design ensures ease of maintenance and lower operating costs. The durable Blue Bird body provides safety and longevity, making it a practical choice for operators seeking a cost-effective, versatile bus. Perfect for organizations looking to expand their fleet with a trusted name in commercial vehicles.

Contact for Price
Mileage 50640
Passengers 22
Year 2016

2015 Thomas HDX RE 90P AC

51646

Very rare Air Conditioned 2015 THOMAS Saf-T-Liner HDX Rear Engine 90-Passenger bus with the 8.9L Cummins ISL Diesel and only 76,000 miles.  This bus is perfectly suited for large group transportation, including schools, churches and shuttle services. The Thomas Built Buses body ensures long-lasting structural integrity and safety. Its straightforward design focuses on functionality, making it a practical investment for operators prioritizing capacity and performance. 

Contact for Price
Mileage 76662
Passengers 90
Year 2015

2015 Thomas C2 NJ Spec 54P

51638

2015 Freightliner Thomas 54-Passenger New Jersey Spec School Bus with a Cummins Diesel engine and only 77,000 miles. This bus was recently retired from a private school and is ready for work. It has seat belts and child booster seats throughout. This bus is perfect for any school, daycare center, day camp or school bus fleet operator looking for a used school bus with low miles.

Contact for Price
Mileage 77992
Passengers 54
Year 2015
Expert customer support - talk to a bus specialist

Bus Buying
Expert Concierge

Detailed bus listings with full specifications and documentation

DMV &
Paperwork Done

Nationwide bus inventory across all 50 states

Delivery to
Your Door

5.0

Five-star customer rating Five-star customer rating Five-star customer rating Five-star customer rating Five-star customer rating
58 reviews on
Google logo

Which School Bus Is Right for You?

School buses show up on more buyer shortlists than you might expect. Whether you're a fleet manager, a church administrator, or a first-time converter, the right type depends on your passenger count, driver licensing, and budget. Here's how the main use cases stack up.

School bus buyer-fit matrix by use case
Buyer Type Recommended Type Typical Budget (Used) Key Consideration
School district / fleet operator Type C or D (66–90 passengers) $15,000 – $40,000 FMVSS 222 compliance, CDL Class B + P + S endorsements required for drivers, fleet pricing on multiples
Church / nonprofit Type A (14–20 passengers) or activity bus $8,000 – $18,000 Non-CDL operability below 26,001 lbs GVWR and 15 passengers; look for MFSAB (Multi-Function School Activity Bus) titles
Skoolie conversion Short Type C (40 ft or under), flat-nose preferred $3,000 – $12,000 Interior ceiling height (minimum 6 ft standing clearance), rust-free frame, no major accident history — cosmetics don't matter, structure does
Shuttle / charter operator Type A transit-style or activity bus $10,000 – $25,000 Passenger comfort, ADA lift option, low mileage relative to age; confirm title as activity or transit bus (not school bus) if drivers lack CDL S endorsement
Exporter Type C or D, any age $3,000 – $15,000 Clean title, no rebuilt/salvage designation, major mechanical systems intact; cosmetic and compliance condition matters less for export markets

School Bus Types at a Glance

The federal classification system divides school buses into four types by body configuration and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR — the maximum safe loaded weight). The type you choose determines CDL requirements, route fit, and resale value. If you're unsure which type fits your operation, the buyer matrix above is a good starting point.

School bus Type A through D: specifications and CDL requirements
Type Passenger Capacity Typical Length GVWR Class CDL Required? Used Price Range
Type A Up to 24 passengers 20 – 28 ft Under 10,000 lbs (A-1) or 10,001 – 14,500 lbs (A-2) No CDL if ≤15 passengers and <26,001 lbs GVWR $8,000 – $20,000
Type B Up to 35 passengers 23 – 30 ft 10,001 – 26,000 lbs CDL Class B required above 26,000 lbs GVWR $10,000 – $22,000
Type C Up to 66 passengers 35 – 40 ft Over 10,000 lbs (conventional cab-over or flat-nose) CDL Class B + P + S endorsements $12,000 – $35,000
Type D Up to 90 passengers 40 – 45 ft Over 10,000 lbs (transit/flat-nose, rear engine) CDL Class B + P + S endorsements $15,000 – $50,000

Capacity figures reflect standard school-bus seating (three-abreast, padded compartmentalization). Actual capacity varies by manufacturer configuration and seat spacing.

Understanding the Four School Bus Types

Type A — Small Body on Van or Cutaway Chassis. Type A buses are built on a van or cutaway chassis — essentially a commercial van extended into a bus body. You get seating for up to 24 passengers and a footprint that stays manageable in parking lots and urban routes. Many configurations stay under the CDL threshold, which is why they're the default choice for churches, daycares, and small nonprofits. Popular platforms include the Ford E-450 and Chevy Express cutaway.

Type B — Bus Body on Van or Truck Chassis. Type B buses extend a conventional bus body forward over the engine, mounted on a heavy-duty van or truck chassis. You're looking at seating for up to 35 passengers — useful when a Type A cutaway isn't enough but a full-size Type C feels like overkill. Less common than Type A or C in used inventory. One thing to verify before you buy: CDL requirements depend on the GVWR, so confirm whether your driver needs a license upgrade.

Type C — Conventional Full-Size School Bus. Type C is the iconic yellow school bus — flat-nosed or conventional cab-forward body on a heavy chassis, seating 48–66 passengers. If you're shopping used inventory, you'll find the Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 and Blue Bird Vision dominating the listings. Both are well-supported nationwide for parts and service. Expect well-maintained examples with 100,000–200,000 miles to fall in the $15,000–$30,000 range. Your drivers will need a CDL Class B with P and S endorsements.

Type D — Transit-Style Full-Size School Bus. Type D buses use a transit (flat-nose, rear-engine) configuration — the same profile as a city bus. If you're running high-density routes, the 90-passenger capacity is hard to beat. The rear engine improves front-end serviceability and reduces passenger-area noise, which your drivers will appreciate on long runs. Used pricing typically starts around $15,000 and climbs to $50,000 for later-model, low-mileage examples. Same CDL endorsements apply as Type C.

Shop by Model

Looking for a specific make? The Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 school bus is one of the most common Type C units in used inventory — parts availability is excellent and mechanic familiarity is high nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a used school bus cost?

Used school bus prices range from $3,000 for high-mileage export candidates to $50,000 for late-model, low-mileage Type D units. If you're targeting the most common used option — a Type C conventional — expect to spend $12,000–$30,000 for a serviceable unit. Condition, mileage, model year, and title type (school bus vs. activity bus) all affect your final price.

How many miles is too many on a used school bus?

Diesel school buses — the majority of used inventory — routinely reach 250,000–350,000 miles with proper maintenance. Mileage alone is a poor indicator for your purchase decision: a 150,000-mile bus with documented oil changes and a clean frame is worth more than a 90,000-mile unit with deferred maintenance and rust. Always request service records and inspect the frame before you buy.

Do I need a CDL to drive a school bus?

In most states, yes — if you're transporting students. A CDL Class B with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements is required for vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR carrying more than 15 passengers. Type A buses under 26,001 lbs with 15 or fewer passengers may not require a CDL, but state rules vary — confirm with your DMV before purchase.

Can I legally convert a school bus into an RV (skoolie)?

Yes, in all 50 states — but the process varies. You'll need to retitle the bus from "school bus" to "motor home" or "converted bus" with your state DMV, which typically requires photos of the completed conversion and a vehicle inspection. Most states don't allow school-titled vehicles to be registered for personal use without retitling. Budget $50–$300 for fees depending on the state.

What should I inspect before buying a used school bus?

Prioritize frame integrity (look for rust at crossmembers and outriggers), transmission function, engine oil condition, and brake system wear. Check the roof for delamination on older units. Request a Carfax or NMVTIS report to flag salvage or rebuilt titles. A pre-purchase inspection by a diesel mechanic familiar with Cummins or International engines typically costs $150–$300 and is well worth it.

What's the difference between a school bus and an activity bus title?

A school bus title restricts the vehicle to student transportation under state education regulations and requires CDL-endorsed drivers. An activity bus (also called MFSAB — Multi-Function School Activity Bus) title allows broader use — field trips, church groups, youth programs — and may not require the S endorsement. Activity-titled buses often sell at a premium for non-school buyers.

Ready to Find Your Bus?

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

Browse School Buses for Sale
Refine
×
ADA