Abstract The results of a numerical simulation of the Marshall testing procedure used in asphalt concrete mix design are reported in this work. The numerical simulation uses the finite element method to model both the asphalt concrete specimen as well as the surrounding testing heads. Linear elastic material behavior and plane stress conditions are assumed to hold in the finite element analysis of the Marshall testing procedure. The elastic modulus required for this analysis is obtained from a separate unconfined compression test on long cylidrical specimens made of the same asphalt concrete mixture as that used in the Marshall test. Although the assumption of linear elastic material behavior is restrictive, a qualitative picture of the displacements and stresses developed in the specimen during the Marshall test emerges from this work.