Frequently Asked Questions - First Student Charter Bus

Charter Bus Trip Information

What is a charter school bus rental and how much do they cost?
A charter is a temporary lease/rental of a vehicle and driver. When your group wants to take a charter bus trip, a "charter" is the reservation of a bus for your trip. Charter transportation prices depend on the mileage/destination, time of use, and incidental costs (for example, driver lodging may be required and factored into the price for overnight trips). Chartering a school bus provides you the best value, and is extremely economical when compared to the cost of coach trips.

How do I book a bus rental — what is the process?
Simply submit either the online form or call us. A customer service representative will provide you with a quote. If you would like to proceed with the booking, we will fax or email you a charter bus trip confirmation itinerary outlining the details you need.

What obligation do I have if I submit an online trip request form?
Absolutely none! We will promptly follow up and provide you a no obligation quote for your consideration. You will find that First Student’s charter transportation rates are the best value for your money.

How close to schedule do the buses run?
We strive for on time performance and reliability while providing professional and courteous service. Occasionally, your small group tour may be delayed by traffic or weather. Please choose a departure schedule that permits ample time for unforeseen delays. Our knowledgeable customer service representatives are happy to help plan your itinerary.

What forms of payment do you accept?
We offer several payment options for your convenience — from certified check to major credit cards. This varies by location, so please be sure to ask your customer service representative for the options available to you.

Will I have to pay anything other than the quoted amount?
No, not if the charter bus trip runs according to the specified itinerary. However, if the trip runs over the time specified based on your group needs, extra charges will apply. Also, unaccounted items such as fees for tolls, parking, and extra stops may require that the invoice be adjusted to cover these costs.

Who drives the bus for my group?
We take tremendous pride in our professional, courteous, and certified drivers. They are specifically trained to drive the charter transportation vehicle you have rented and are subject to a series of checks; including medical reviews, background checks, driving record checks, and drug and alcohol testing (where required by law). Best of all, our drivers are trained using First Student's proprietary training and testing program, which includes multiple training sessions each year. Safety is our prime concern!

How far ahead should I make arrangements?
It is never too soon to plan your charter bus trip and order your charter bus rental. Ordering months in advance helps ensure availability, but if you have a last minute request, give us a call. We always aim to meet your charter transportation needs, and we will do what we can to accommodate you, even on short notice.

How many passengers can your vehicles accommodate?
First Student Charter Bus offers various charter transportation vehicles. Typically, a large school bus can comfortably accommodate 48 adults and much more if the group is comprised of young children. Our mini-buses accommodate 18-20 passengers. First Student serves small group tours and company events requiring transportation for thousands of people. Whether you require employee or customer shuttles, service for conventions, sporting events or other events, First Student can meet your needs.

Do you have buses that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, although availability varies by area. Please indicate this requirement and our customer service representatives will confirm availability for your charter transportation needs.

Is there any limit as to how far your vehicles can travel?
First Student provides services for trips ranging from a few blocks to hundreds of miles. A customer service representative can help you determine if renting a First Student vehicle meets your specific needs. First Student Charter Bus is licensed and insured to travel anywhere in the USA or Canada and is a great alternative to coach trips.

What deposit amount is required to reserve one of your vehicles and when is the deposit due?
Deposits are often not required, however full payment is due in advance unless you have established credit with First Student. Ask your local customer service representative about specific terms in your area.

When is the final payment due?
Payment for your charter bus trip is usually due in advance of the trip. Final payment will include any additional or incidental charges incurred on the trip that was not part of the confirmed itinerary. Examples include on-trip requests for additional stops or extension of the trip duration.

What are the rates to charter First Student vehicles?
Each booking or reservation made with First Student Charter Bus varies to some degree so we base all of our rates on an individual basis. Each quote is prepared just for you based on several details like mileage, frequency of use, length of time used, number of vehicles required, and the type of vehicle required. Each quote is prepared quickly and thoroughly and our rates provide you excellent value for your money.

Does First Student Charter Bus provide discounts for large, multiple bus orders?
This varies by area — your local customer service representative will inform you if a volume discount applies to your trip or event booking.

What if I need a bus for a very short time or to travel a very short distance?
First Student often accommodates very short trips while providing great value. You do not have to pay for full-day use of the bus if you are not using it the whole day. Your local customer service representative can quickly provide you a no-obligation quote.

What if I need to change the itinerary prior to the trip or cancel the trip altogether?
If you need your itinerary changed, we will simply make the adjustments for you and send you a new trip confirmation itinerary. If you need to cancel your charter bus trip, there is often a cancellation charge if it is made on very short notice. Call your customer service representative immediately should you need to adjust your trip plans.

Are the vehicles available for charter rental in my area the same as those that appear on the website?
Typically yes, but it depends. Although school buses typically look very similar, there may be some differences in appearance and specifications by area. This often has to do with state or provincial regulations. Your customer service representative can clarify any questions about the vehicles that are available to you.