The differences of stress,strain index and deflection used in asphalt pavement design were pointed out by finite element program based on elastic layered theory.And the necessity of applying strain indicators as controlling indexes during the design was purposed.The study discussed the selection of strain index as well as checking points positions,and suggested the strain strength can be implemented as strain controlling index.The positions of checking points used to analyze the strain intensity were calculated to be taken in the middle of the surface layer,the top and the bottom of the base course.Finally,the selection of the design indexes in three typical asphalt pavement structures with flexible base,semi-rigid base and rigid base was investigated.