Federal drug testing deserves careful scrutiny for at least two reasons. First, the practice has spread to all levels of government and to much of the private sector. Second, Federal drug testing casts light on a more general issue, the relation between instrumental and symbolic aspects of public administration. Although the instrumental rationale for Federal drug testing assumes many guises, proponents have stressed three claims in particular: that drug testing fosters workplace efficiency, promotes public health, and reduces crime. Federal drug testing is examined in terms of public health and law enforcement interests, the symbolic value of drug testing, and respect for individual rights. The authors see some possibilities for making drug testing programs more credible but question the Federal drug testing program's value as a model for similar efforts. 56 references and 4 tables