An HMA fracture mechanics based enhanced cracking performance model (HMA-FM-E) was calibrated and validated using selected Florida field sections. The model calibration was undertaken by matching as closely as possible predicted top-down cracking performance with field observations. Also, predictions using the calibrated model showed that the predicted crack growth rates and crack initiation times were inversely-related, which is reasonable and agrees with our field experience. The model validation effort using the prediction sum of squares approach demonstrated the strong predictability of the calibrated model. Further calibration of the model is recommended when more field sections with high quality data are available. Also, further development and integration of submodels such as the predictive relationship for initial fracture energy based on gradation characterization and volumetric properties can be employed to make the HMA-FM-E a Level-3 design tool suitable for use in the mechanistic-empirical pavement design.