Quick answer
A 40×12 ft driveway at 3 inches thick needs about 8.7 tons of asphalt.
How it works
Hot-mix asphalt weighs about 145 pounds per cubic foot. Driveways typically use 2–3 inches over a compacted gravel base.
Formula
Tons = length × width × (thickness ÷ 12) × 145 ÷ 2,000
Assumptions & limitations
- Asphalt density of 145 lb per cubic foot
- Cost uses your price per ton; delivery and labor not included
Frequently asked questions
How thick should a driveway be?
2–3 inches of asphalt over 4–6 inches of compacted gravel is standard for cars.