Gainesville student & group transportation
Safe, on-time rides that put students first.
For more than 12 years, Gainesville-area schools, districts, athletic programs, and group organizers have trusted Students First to move their people safely, on time, and stress-free.
- Licensed
- Insured
- DOT Certified
- 12+ Years
Why Students First
12+
years of safe, dependable operation
83
passengers on our largest school bus
56
passengers per charter coach
100%
licensed, insured, DOT-certified
What we do
Two ways we get your group there
Whether it is a daily route for your school or charter transportation for a game, trip, or event, the same licensed, DOT-certified Students First team is behind the wheel.
Contracted service
School Transportation
Daily route contracts for districts, charter, and private schools. One operator, accountable every morning, on annual or multi-year terms.
Explore school routes
One-time rentals
Charters & Events
Book a bus for a single trip. Field trips and athletics, weddings, corporate travel, and celebrations, no long-term contract required.
Plan your trip
Built around Gainesville schools and groups
From daily district routes to weekend tournaments and field trips, local schools and organizations count on us to plan the ride and get everyone there together.
Meet Our Fleet
Need A Ride? Book A Charter With Us.
Bus rentals are a safe and affordable solution for group transportation, whether it is a school field trip, a sporting event, a corporate outing, or a summer camp. Tell us where you are going and we will match the right vehicle.
Meet Our Fleet
77 seats
Conventional School Bus
An economical option for transporting large groups, seating up to 77 passengers.
View details
83 seats
Transit School Bus
Our largest school bus, seating up to 83 passengers when one vehicle needs to carry the whole group.
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56 seats
Charter Bus Rental
Built for long-distance travel and comfort, seating up to 56 passengers.
View detailsCommon questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of buses do you offer?
We offer a variety of buses to fit different group sizes and needs, including conventional school buses, transit school buses, and 56-passenger charter coaches. Our coaches feature air conditioning, comfortable seating, and audio-visual equipment. See the full fleet for capacities and amenities.
How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation by calling (352) 316-7012, or by submitting a request through our website. We can discuss information such as your desired dates, destination, group size, and any special requests.
Can I see the bus before I book it?
We are happy to arrange a viewing of the bus before you make a booking. Please contact our office at (352) 316-7012 to schedule a viewing.
How much does it cost to rent a bus?
The cost of renting a bus varies depending on factors such as the size of the bus, the distance of the trip, and the duration of the rental. Please see our rates and contact us for a customized quote.
Is there a minimum rental time?
Yes, we typically require a four-hour minimum, though this can vary with the circumstances. The full terms are on our rates page.
Can we bring food and drinks on the bus?
Yes, you are welcome to bring food and drinks on the bus. Please let us know if you will be doing so, as we may need to make accommodations such as providing trash bins or cooler space.
Are there any restrictions on where we can go?
We are happy to take you to your destination as long as it is within our service area. See the areas we serve, and let us know if you have any specific requests or concerns.
Do you provide a driver?
Yes, all of our buses come with a professional driver who is licensed and insured. Our drivers are trained to prioritize safety and customer service.
What safety measures do you have in place?
We take safety very seriously and have a comprehensive safety program in place. Our buses are regularly inspected and maintained, and our drivers undergo background checks and regular training. We also have safety protocols in place for emergencies and unexpected situations.
Can we customize the itinerary?
Yes, we are happy to work with you to customize the itinerary to meet your group’s needs and preferences. Please let us know your desired stops and schedule, and we will do our best to accommodate them.
Can we bring pets on the bus?
We generally do not allow pets on our buses, with the exception of service animals. Please let us know if you will be traveling with a service animal so we can make necessary arrangements.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payment by cash, bank transfer, and most major credit cards (AMEX, Visa, MC, Discover). See our rates page for deposit and payment terms, or contact us for more information.
What is the maximum capacity of your buses?
Our buses can accommodate different group sizes, ranging up to 83 passengers depending on the bus type. Compare capacities across the fleet, or contact us for seating layouts.