School is out for the summer, but you still might see a few school buses on the road. Some buses are great for carting around big families and tons of pets. Plus, you can turn a school bus into the ultimate camper, but is it legal to drive one on the road? 

Can you use a school bus for daily driving? 

Yes, you can use a school bus as your daily driver, but there are a few strings attached. While it’s federally legal to drive large buses, each state has laws and regulations to follow. 

For example, down here in North Carolina the first step towards driving a massive bus includes being at least 18 years old with at least six months of driving experience. This doesn’t seem like a long enough time to master a massive vehicle, but the law is the law. 

Then you will need to get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) depending on how heavy your bus is by passing a written test and a performance test. You can gather the necessary information and instructions from your local DMV office. 

Also, there are CDL schools with six-week programs, but those are mostly for those trying to become semi-truck drivers. It will need a S (school) and a P (passenger) endorsement. 

A CDL is required for buses that are designed to carry 16 or more passengers and for buses with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs or more. The average buses for public schools weigh about 36,000 lbs. 

Then you will need to get a school bus driver’s certificate, which requires a training program. You can complete the program in person or online. 

Even if you aren’t using your bus for commercial uses, you still need to meet these requirements. The laws apply to drivers who operate vehicles that transport people or property. A converted bus has your camping property, but it might weigh less than 26,001 lbs.