School Buses

Buying a used school bus starts with bus type, passenger count, CDL needs, and condition.

  • Best fit: Schools, churches, activity programs, and skoolie buyers.
  • Budget: Often $8,000-$30,000 depending on age, mileage, and condition.
  • Check: Rust, title class, service history, tires, brakes, and CDL fit.
Need help choosing? Compare Type A-D, budgets, buyer fit, and CDL notes after the listings. View the decision guide
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2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

25955

The 2022 Blue Bird Vision School Bus is an excellent choice for school districts and private institutions seeking a reliable and fleet-ready solution for student transportation. This bus is powered by a dependable 6.7 Cummins engine paired with an Allison transmission, making it ideal for daily routes and extracurricular activities.

Blue Bird is renowned in the school transportation industry for producing buses that prioritize safety and durability, ensuring compliance with stringent school standards. This reputation for quality means that investing in a Bluebird bus offers peace of mind for school administrators and fleet managers looking for dependable and cost-effective transport solutions.

$106,000
Mileage 50000
Passengers 77
Year 2022

2022 International NJ Spec 54

25437

2022 International NJ Spec 54 Passenger School Bus with only 45,000 miles. Seat belts, front and rear air conditioning and more. One owner and fleet maintained since new.

$105,000
Mileage 45000
Passengers 54
Year 2022

2005 Blue Bird Flat Nose School Bus

24975

The 2005 Blue Bird is a dependable vehicle designed for school transportation, supporting a variety of passenger needs. Powered by a reliable Caterpillar C7 engine, it delivers efficiency and durability in every journey.

$11,000
Mileage 273788
Passengers 0
Year 2005

2009 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner School Bus

24973

The 2009 Thomas Built School Bus offers a comfortable ride for up to 78 passengers. It features a powerful Cummins ISC engine that enhances its performance, making it a reliable choice for school transportation with a durable design.

$17,500
Mileage 161260
Passengers 78
Year 2009

2000 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner EF School Bus

24936

The 2000 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner EF is a reliable school bus equipped with a turbo diesel engine and has a mileage of 210,683. It serves as a practical option for buyers seeking an affordable school bus for skoolie converters.

$16,000
Mileage 210683
Passengers 0
Year 2000

2015 Blue Bird School Bus

24732

The 2015 Blue Bird School Bus is an ex-government unit with 150,231 miles, designed to accommodate 35 passengers and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins diesel engine. This bus features power steering, air brakes, and A/C, making it a dependable option for group transportation.

$40,000
Mileage 150231
Passengers 35
Year 2015

4 Matching School Bus Fleet

24580
The 2011 International CE International is a fleet-ready solution perfect for schools seeking reliable and cost-effective transportation. This bulk package deal includes four matching full-size yellow school buses, each equipped with diesel engines, hydraulic brakes, and seat belts, ensuring safety and compliance for daily operations and extracurricular activities. With a mileage of 155,000 these buses are fresh out of service and ready to meet the demands of public and private school districts looking to expand or upgrade their fleet without breaking the budget. International is renowned for producing durable and dependable vehicles, making them a trusted choice for school transportation needs. Their commitment to quality ensures that these buses offer long-term reliability and performance, providing peace of mind to buyers who prioritize mechanical soundness and safety. By choosing International, schools can leverage their investment effectively, knowing they are backed by a brand synonymous with excellence in the bus manufacturing industry.
$48,000
Mileage 155000
Passengers 0
Year 2011

2 Matching School Bus Fleet

24579
The 2012 International CE yellow school buses are a fleet-ready solution for schools and organizations in need of safe and reliable transportation. These diesel-powered buses, complete with seat belts for all passengers, are perfect for daily student routes or shuttle conversion for extracurricular activities, making them an ideal choice for both public and private school transportation needs. International is a trusted name in the industry, known for producing durable and dependable buses that stand the test of time. Their commitment to quality ensures that buyers receive vehicles exceeding safety and performance standards, providing peace of mind for those responsible for transporting students or congregation members.
$27,000
Mileage 146000
Passengers 0
Year 2012

2016 IC CE School Bus

24519

This 2016 IC CE school bus seats 71 passengers and runs on a reliable Cummins diesel engine, making it a solid option for school districts seeking dependable fleet additions.

$60,000
Mileage 105676
Passengers 71
Year 2016

2011 International Flat Nose School Bus

24478

This 2011 International School Bus delivers exceptional performance and comfort with its powerful DT466 engine, smooth Allison 3000 transmission, and dual air conditioning units. Designed for up to 78 passengers, it’s a reliable and spacious solution for school districts or transportation providers seeking long-term value and low-maintenance operation.

$18,900
Mileage 118000
Passengers 78
Year 2011

2006 Blue Bird Vision School Bus

24464

2006 Bluebird Vision School Bus with A/C and wheelchair lift. Reliable CAT C7 engine, ideal for schools or custom conversion, with accessibility and comfort.

$16,000
Year 2006

2010 International 3000 IC Bus

24391
$10,000
Mileage 139129
Passengers 72
Year 2010

2007 Chevrolet Midbus MFSAB Non-CDL School Bus

24387

This 2007 Chevrolet Midbus is a 14-passenger Non-CDL school bus featuring a 6.0L gas engine, dual rear wheels, and high headroom. With front and rear A/C and a Colorado-legal configuration, it’s a reliable choice for small group transportation.

$31,000
Mileage 119000
Passengers 14
Year 2007

2018 Chevy G3500 School Bus

23963

The 2018 Starcraft School Bus is built for safety and efficiency, capable of transporting up to 23 passengers. Powered by a dependable 6.0L V8 engine, this bus features a manual entrance door for secure and accessible entry.

$50,000
Mileage 113000
Passengers 23
Year 2018

2025 Ford E450 Collins 14 Passenger

23593

The 2025 Ford E450 Collins Mini School Bus with seating for 14 passengers. This bus is powered by a reliable V8 gasoline engine and has an automatic transmission. With amenities such as air conditioning and hydraulic brakes, this minibus is ideal for student transportation.

$134,000
Mileage 1000
Passengers 14
Year 2025

2014 Blue Bird AAFE Flat Nose ADA Bus

23587
Check out this versatile school bus, equipped to transport 46 passengers while providing options for special needs. The 2014 Blue Bird AAFE model features a reliable Cummins engine and air brakes, with low mileage of just 13,107.
$49,900
Mileage 13107
Passengers 46
Year 2014

2006 Ford E-450 School Bus

23103

Discover this 2006 Ford E-450 Mini School Bus, a robust vehicle boasting a 16-18 passenger capacity and a well-maintained, rust-free body. With a formidable 6.0 Powerstroke motor and a variety of applications from recreational to work use, this bus is a versatile choice for those in search of a reliable bus for sale.

$16,000
Mileage 182234
Passengers 18
Year 2006

8 Matching 2015 International 72 Pass

21748

The Bulk Fleet Package offers eight matching 2015 International CE 72 Passenger School Buses, making it an ideal choice for public school districts, private schools, and large-scale community outreach programs. These school buses are equipped with diesel engines and Allison automatic transmissions, ensuring reliable performance and comfort for daily transport needs. Ordered new together and operated by the same fleet operator since new, these buses are fleet maintained and fresh from service, providing a professional appearance and enhanced reliability. In stock now and ready to ship, this package deal is perfect for organizations seeking efficient and high-capacity transportation solutions.


International is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in the transportation industry. The CE model exemplifies this dedication, offering a blend of reliability and comfort that makes it a preferred choice among educational institutions.


Notable Features

Fleet Consistency: Eight matching units from the same fleet, ensuring uniformity and reliability.

Low Mileage: Current vehicle miles range from 84k to 121k, ensuring longevity and dependable performance.

Engine and Transmission: All buses feature diesel engines and Allison automatic transmissions for smooth operation.


Additional Specifications

Engine: Diesel

Transmission: Allison Automatic

Mileage: Approximately 88,888 miles per unit

Exterior Dimensions: Length: 39 ft, Width: 8 ft, Height: 10 ft

$150,000
Mileage 88888
Passengers 72
Year 2015

BULK FLEET DEAL 4 MATCHING BUSES

21738

Four matching 2015 International CE 77-Passenger School Buses with under-floor luggage storage and low miles. These four buses were ordered new together and operated by the same fleet company from day one. They have been fleet maintained since new and are extremely clean. No disappointments.

$88,000
Mileage 70000
Passengers 77
Year 2015

2017 Bluebird BBCV Na

21713
2017 bluebird yellow school bus with V 10 engine.
$28,000
Mileage 120000
Passengers 48
Year 2017

2014 International IC CE School Bus

20644

The 2014 International IC CE School Bus is a well-built Type C bus with a 35-passenger capacity, making it ideal for school or shuttle services. Equipped with an International MaxxForce 7 diesel engine and an Allison automatic transmission, it provides reliable performance for various transport needs. With air conditioning for added comfort, this used school bus is a great choice for fleet expansion, appealing to public school districts, private schools, and community outreach programs.


Notable Features

Passenger Comfort: The interior features a spacious seating layout with climate control for an enhanced ride experience.

Safety and Reliability: Equipped with an International MaxxForce 7 diesel engine and air conditioning, this bus is built for reliability and efficiency.

Clean Aesthetic: The durable Type C bus body maintains a professional appearance suitable for school transportation.


Additional Specifications

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

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

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

$20,000
Mileage 157546
Passengers 35
Year 2014

2009 International IC CE 300 School Bus

20496
The 2009 IC CE300 is a dependable school bus with a seating capacity of 71 passengers, perfect for group transportation. Equipped with an International DT466 engine and Allison transmission, this vehicle ensures smooth rides and reliability. Ideal for organizations looking for used school buses for sale, it combines functionality with essential features.
$17,000
Mileage 142260
Passengers 71
Year 2009

2024 Chevrolet Magellan ADA School Bus

20458

The 2024 Chevrolet Magellan is a versatile ADA compliant school bus accommodating 18 passengers and 1 wheelchair user. New bus with delivery miles only. It features advanced safety specifications including 3-point seat belts and a spacious interior with large windows, making it ideal for school transport. This bus is built to Washington State standards, ensuring reliability in various transportation scenarios.

$136,000
Mileage 1500
Passengers 18
Year 2024

2016 Thomas Minotour School Bus

20371
This 2016 Thomas Minotour is a compact school minibus designed for up to 20 passengers, ideal for small group transportation. Equipped with both air conditioning and hydraulic brakes, it ensures a comfortable and safe ride for every journey. This well-maintained vehicle has a mileage of just 46,948, making it a reliable choice among used buses for sale.
$47,000
Mileage 46948
Passengers 20
Year 2016
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Which School Bus Is Right for You?

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

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

School Bus Types at a Glance

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

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

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

Understanding the Four School Bus Types

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

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

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

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

Shop by Model

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a used school bus cost?

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

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

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

Do I need a CDL to drive a school bus?

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

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

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

What should I inspect before buying a used school bus?

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

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

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

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