Concrete Driveway Calculator
Work out the concrete for a new driveway before you talk to a supplier or a contractor. Enter the length and width, check the thickness, and get cubic yards, bag counts and an estimated cost.
This calculator starts at 5 inches thick, which suits driveways that carry cars and pickups. Four inches is the minimum for light cars only, and 6 inches with reinforcement is the right call for heavy trucks, RVs and delivery vehicles.
Concrete Driveway Calculator
Concrete for a driveway pour, with bag counts and an estimated cost.
For cars, 4 to 5 inches is a typical driveway thickness. For heavy trucks or an RV, plan on 5 to 6 inches, and check local code before you pour.
Cost estimate uses the ready mix price of $165 per cubic yard and $5.50 per 80 lb bag set for this calculator. Estimates only, confirm quantities with your supplier before ordering.
Quick answers for common driveway sizes
Figures are for a 5 inch thick driveway and include 10 percent extra for waste.
| Driveway size | Cubic yards | 80 lb bags | 60 lb bags |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 x 20 ft (single) | 3.40 | 153 | 204 |
| 12 x 20 ft (single) | 4.07 | 184 | 245 |
| 16 x 20 ft (double) | 5.43 | 245 | 326 |
| 20 x 20 ft (double) | 6.79 | 306 | 408 |
Worked example
A 16 x 20 ft double driveway at 5 inches: 16 x 20 x (5 divided by 12) = 133.33 cubic feet, which is 4.94 cubic yards. With 10 percent waste the order amount is 5.43 cubic yards. At a typical $165 per yard, the ready mix itself is about $896, before delivery and any short load fee.
Bags or a ready mix truck
Almost every driveway belongs on a truck. Even a small single driveway at 3.40 yards would take 153 bags of 80 lb mix, and mixing that much by hand risks a weak, uneven slab because the first concrete starts to set before the last batch is placed. Bags suit driveway repairs and small extensions only.
Frequently asked questions
How thick should a concrete driveway be?
Five inches is the safe standard for cars and pickups. Four inches can work for light cars on a strong base, and 6 inches is recommended for heavy vehicles. Thickness and a compacted base matter more than anything else for a long lasting driveway.
How many yards of concrete for a 20 x 20 driveway?
At 5 inches thick, a 20 x 20 ft driveway needs 6.17 cubic yards before waste, or 6.79 cubic yards with 10 percent added. Most people order 7 yards.
Does a driveway need rebar or mesh?
Reinforcement does not change the concrete volume, but welded wire mesh or rebar holds cracks tight and is standard on driveways. Budget the steel separately from the concrete.
What does the calculator not include?
It covers the concrete itself. Gravel base, forms, reinforcement, removal of an old driveway and labor are separate costs, and delivered concrete can carry a short load fee under about 5 yards.
Related calculators
- Concrete Calculator
- Concrete Slab Calculator
- Cubic Yards of Concrete Calculator
- Concrete Patio Calculator
Estimates only. Quantities and prices are guides, not quotes. Confirm final amounts with your supplier before you order.