The work factor approach was applied to determine $G_ {IC}$ of fiber reinforced composites (AS4/3501) from a single unidirectional (0-deg) DCB specimen. Elastic work factors of DCB specimen for three different symmetrical staking sequences were derived from a simple bending theory and a finite element method. The results showed that elastic work factors calculated from both methods were comparable each other. In particular, the elastic work factor of DCB specimen with symmetrical stacking sequence is independent of stacking sequence. The $G_ {IC}$ determined from the work factor approach was compared with that determined by the compliance method. The results showed that the work factor approach and the compliance method produce comparable results of $G_ {IC}$. Thus, $G_ {IC}$ can be determined from a single DCB specimen using the work factor approach.