In Minnesota, school buses are classified as Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, and Type III, according to Minnesota Statute 169.011 Subd. 71. Each classification is determined by the vehicle's weight, design, and purpose. Let's take a closer look at each type of school bus.
Type A school bus is a van conversion or a bus that uses a cutaway front section vehicle with a left-side driver's door. There are two classifications of Type A school buses: Type A-I, with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of up to 14,500 pounds, and Type A-II, with a GVWR of between 14,500 and 21,500 pounds. Type A school buses are smaller and typically used for smaller student groups or special needs transportation.
Type B school bus is constructed using a stripped chassis, and the entrance door is behind the front wheels. There are two classifications of Type B school buses: Type B-I, with a GVWR of up to 10,000 pounds, and Type B-II, with a GVWR of over 10,000 pounds. Type B school buses are also known as "transit-style" buses, and they are used to transport larger groups of students.
Type C school bus is a body installed on a flat back cowl chassis, and the GVWR is over 21,500 pounds, designed for carrying more than ten people. The entire engine is in front of the windshield, and the entrance door is behind the front wheels. Type C school buses have a maximum length of 45 feet and are commonly known as "conventional" school buses.
Type D school bus is constructed using a stripped chassis, and the entrance door is ahead of the front wheels. Type D school buses are also known as "rear-engine" buses, and they have a larger and wider body than Type C buses. They are typically used for longer routes and have a higher passenger capacity.
Type III school buses and Type III Head Start buses are restricted to passenger cars, station wagons, vans, and buses having a maximum manufacturer's rated seating capacity of ten or fewer people, including the driver, and a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less. They are not outwardly equipped or identified as a Type A, B, C, or D school bus. Type III school buses are commonly used for smaller student groups, such as field trips.
In addition to these five types of school buses, there is also a multifunction school activity bus (MFSAB). An MFSAB is a school bus that meets the definition of a multifunction school activity in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Section 571.3. It is used to transport students to extracurricular activities and events.
Understanding the different types of school buses can help parents, students, and drivers understand the capabilities and limitations of each type of bus. Knowing what to look for can also help promote safety on the road. When you see a school bus on the road, take a moment to observe its design and classification, and remember to always proceed with caution around school buses.
