The turbolift was a device that provided rapid transport with both vertical and horizontal transportation for personnel through a system of turboshafts between key sections of starships and space stations.

While most starship turbolifts were enclosed, some turbolifts remained open when at rest. NX-class starships needed only a button to be pressed to specify which deck to travel to. Incorporated in the design of Constitution-class turbolifts were small handles on the interior, allowing for transport without the use of voice commands. At some point, it became necessary to use both the handle and to submit a voice command on board Constitution-class ships. In the 2270s, the turbolift's tactile interface was succeeded by voice command operation.

Upon receipt of the voice command, the command queried the network, allowing for computation of the most optimal route to the destination. Such routes factored in the presence of other turbolifts already in operation. The auditory receivers also automatically scanned for voiceprint authentication, allowing for select personnel access to restricted areas. Turbolifts from the 23rd century also featured communication panels to allow communication with other sections of the ship without the need for a communicator.

Turbolifts could also be locked down in the event of a security incident, blocking access to critical areas of the ship, such as the main bridge.