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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dimensions of a school bus?

School buses come in different sizes, but a standard full-size school bus is 35 to 45 feet long. Smaller school buses, often called Type A buses, are around 20 to 25 feet long.

How much does a school bus weigh?

A school bus's weight can vary by size. For instance, a small school bus can be 10,000 to 15,000 pounds while a full size school bus can be 25,000 to 36,000 pounds.

How much does a school bus cost?

The price of a new school bus ranges from $90,000 to $200,000, depending on size, model, and features like air conditioning or wheelchair accessibility. Used school buses can cost between $5,000 and $50,000, based on age and condition.

What is the capacity of a school bus?

A standard full-size school bus typically has 40 to 50 seats, accommodating up to 90 children (assuming three per seat) or 60 adults (two per seat). Smaller school buses may have 10 to 30 seats.

Why don’t school buses have seatbelts?

School buses are one of the most regulated vehicles on the road, inherently travel at slow speeds, and are built in a way to offer maximum safety and protection. For instance, many buses often use a safety concept called "compartmentalization," which protects children without the need for seat belts.

What are the types of school bus?

School buses come in various types, each designed to meet specific transportation needs and regulations. The most common types include Type A, B, C, and D buses. Each type is designed with safety and efficiency in mind, adhering to strict regulations to ensure the safe transport of students.

Type A buses are the smallest, built on a van chassis, and typically accommodate fewer passengers, making them ideal for smaller routes or special needs transportation. 

Type B buses are slightly larger, with a bus body constructed on a front-section vehicle chassis, often used for medium-sized routes. 

Type C buses, also known as conventional buses, are the most recognizable, featuring a hood and front engine design, and are widely used for standard school routes due to their larger capacity. 

Type D buses, or transit-style buses, have a flat front with the engine located at the rear or front, offering the highest passenger capacity and are often used for longer routes or larger school districts.

Why are school buses yellow, and what do the black lines mean?

School buses are yellow because the color is highly visible and can be seen in peripheral vision faster than other colors, enhancing safety. The black lines on a school bus, known as rub rails, add structural integrity and provide protection in case of collisions.