Dig a base about 6 to 10 inches deep. The thicker the base the heavier the vehicles that can be driven over it. The soil should be made as compact as possible and cleared of debris.
Spread crushed gravel and larger aggregate (a mixture of sand and rocks) to fill the base. Use the coarser aggregate if your base has poor drainage. Use your shovel to spread the gravel evenly.
Pour hot asphalt over the gravel and aggregate. Use an asphalt spreader to spread the hot mixture. Use a paver to mix in a layer of gravel and smooth out the pavement. You will need to rent the equipment or hire a paving company to do this step for you.
Avoid driving on the asphalt until it has cooled.
Use an asphalt sealer if desired to keep the asphalt shiny and protect from small cracks.