State Elevator Inspection Requirements

Elevator inspection laws in the United States are not federally standardized. Each state sets its own rules for inspection frequency, inspector qualifications, and code adoption -- and the differences are significant. New York City maintains what is arguably the strictest elevator code in the country, with semi-annual inspections for many building types and its own extensive amendments to ASME A17.1. Meanwhile, states like Kansas, Mississippi, and Wyoming have no statewide elevator code at all, leaving enforcement entirely to local municipalities.

The governing standard for most states is ASME A17.1, but the edition in force varies widely. States like Illinois, Minnesota, and Washington have already adopted the 2019 edition, while Texas and several others still reference the 2013 edition. California layers its own Cal/OSHA amendments on top of the national standard, creating requirements that are materially different from any other state. Some states allow third-party inspectors; others -- Massachusetts, Iowa, Connecticut -- run state-only inspection programs where only government employees can perform the work.

Select your state below to see the specific requirements that apply. The data covers inspection frequency, QEI certification requirements, the governing code edition, penalties for noncompliance, and any special provisions unique to your jurisdiction.

Use the dropdown above to select a state and view its elevator inspection requirements, governing code, and compliance details.