Insufficient attention towards the topic of public service motivation among Lithuanian scholars encouragedthe author to choose the object for the paper. The paper starts with the analysis of various theories of motivation(starting with A.Maslow theory of needs hierarchy and analyzing more complex theories of F.Herzberg,K.Alderfer, D.McCleland, V.Vroom, J.Adams, E.Lawler, W.Porter ). Similar theories can serve as the basis forfuture research in Lithuanian public sphere. Author states, that universal theory on motivation does not exist.This fact complicates applicability of various theories in practice as raises the question, which theory is the bestone (qualitative dimension). After choosing the theory, another question is what we have to measure. Attitudes(satisfaction), behavior (involvement) or both these elements should be used trying to measure motivation. Awish to participate in public policy implementation, serving public, loyalty to government; commitment andbenevolence are several specific motivators, which influence public servant’s activity. It is shown that workingconditions, work content, salary, work safety, challenges, and possibilities for a career in private and publicsector lead to distinguish certain similarities and differences.