Keep traffic off of your new asphalt driveway for at least 3 days, longer in hotter weather. For the first year, your asphalt driveway can harden and soften as the temperature changes. Watering down the driveway on extremely hot days can cool and temporarily harden the asphalt. Although every effort is made to avoid puddles, some small ones may appear depending on the slope and drainage of your property. 

Vehicles taking off and stopping too fast can scar the pavement, as can sharp turns and turning the wheels while in place. During the first year it is advisable to park in different spots to avoid creating divots. Use a piece of wood under any jacks, ramps, or heavy objects to avoid indenting the asphalt. Use caution when using such things as chairs or motorcycles (and bicycles) with kickstands, especially on hot days. 

Since the edges of the driveway are more vulnerable, try to avoid driving near or parking on the edges. Building up the edge with material will help support the edges, just be sure to allow for proper drainage. 

Asphalt has various sizes of stone, sand, liquid asphalt, and other ingredients that can cause a varied texture on the surface. Areas that have been raked by hand can appear different from areas spread by machine. 

Avoid gasoline, oil, anti-freeze, power steering fluid, and transmission spills and leaks, which can dilute liquid asphalt. Keep weeds and grass at bay. Have any cracks filled with sealer. To preserve your new driveway, it is advisable to seal it within a few years. Sealer protects asphalt with a coating that is impervious to harmful elements and also fills and seals hairline cracks.