A school district with large numbers of students on a route may require a bus that can carry 75 to 90 students. These larger buses can run approximately 40 feet long. For smaller load requirements, a 20 foot bus carrying up to 20 students will fill the need. Other districts may choose a bus in the mid-range to carry 30 to 75 students.
A bus configured for special duties may carry fewer passengers than a general purpose bus of the same length. Special duties may include carrying an athletic team or band with its equipment, older rather than younger students or special needs students.
State law defines acceptable school bus sizes within its boundaries. Each manufacturer designs its own bus layouts; the specifications for each company will vary.
