What color are school buses in the United States?

School buses in the United States are typically yellow, specifically a standardized shade known as National School Bus Glossy Yellow.

The color was adopted nationally in 1939 after education specialist Frank W. Cyr organized a conference at Columbia University to establish common school-bus standards. The yellow-orange shade was selected because black lettering was easy to read against it in the low light of early morning and late afternoon. Its visibility also helped drivers recognize vehicles carrying children.

The color was originally called National School Bus Chrome, reflecting the use of chrome-yellow pigment. Lead-based pigments were later phased out because of toxicity, and the official name changed to National School Bus Glossy Yellow. The exact appearance can vary somewhat between manufacturers and jurisdictions, but the familiar yellow body remains the defining visual feature of American school buses.

Not every school transport vehicle worldwide is yellow, and some American school-related vehicles may use other designs. The quiz answer describes the standard, iconic American school bus rather than every possible vehicle used to transport students.