Analytical models for the prediction of the size of hardened zone in laser surface hardening are presented. The models are based on the solutions to the problem of three-dimensional heat flow in plates with infinite thickness. The validity of the model was tested on medium carbon steel for Gaussian mode of beam. Then the model for rectagular beam was used for the predicition of the size of hardened zone on various hardening process parameters. From the calculation results it appeared that the size and shape of the hardened zone are strongly dependent on process parameters such as beam mode, beam size, and traverse speed.