Testing recommendations for COVID-19 in the United States have varied by state and over time in the spring and summer of 2020. As of July 2020, 16 states recommended testing asymptomatic members of the general public. The rate of COVID-19 tests reported in each state correlates with more permissive testing recommendations and with higher epidemic intensity. Higher per capita testing was associated with more complete reporting of COVID-19 deaths, which is a fundamental requirement for analyzing the pandemic. Coordinated, consistent guidelines for COVID-19 testing should be a high priority for state and national health systems.