In most states, the designation "School Bus" is reserved for buses actually taking kids to and from school. Some churches and private schools can legitimately claim "School Bus" status, since they actually are taking the kids to and from educational activities.
"Charter Bus" is typically commercial usage. In GA where I live, the state designates 2 types of commercial bus usage. The first is typical for Megabus and Greyhound, a bus runs a set schedule between fixed stops, and sells tickets per passenger. The bus runs the route, regardless of how many passengers are aboard. The second is "charter service" where the entire bus is rented and dedicated to a group, for a specific run, or amount of time. This has nothing to do with registration (license plates), but everything to do with business licensing and DOT numbers. I expect MD has a similar setup, since they have to comply with Federal regulations and (if you ever cross a state line), you'll be under federal rules.
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