The calibration of resistance factor in reliability theory for limit state design of gravel compaction piles (GCP) requires a reliable estimate of ultimate bearing capacity. The static load test is commonly used in geotechnical engineering practice to predict the ultimate bearing capacity. Many graphical methods are specified in the design standard to define the ultimate bearing capacity based on the load-settlement curve. However, it has some disadvantages to ensure reliability to obtain an uniform ultimate load depend on engineering judgement. In this study, a well-fitting nonlinear regression model is proposed to estimate the ultimate bearing capacity, for which a nonlinear regression analysis is applied to estimate the ultimate bearing capacity of GCP and the results are compared with those calculated using previous graphical method. Affect the resistance factor of the estimate method were analyzed. To provide a database in the development of limit state design, the load test conditions for predicting the ultimate bearing capacity from static load test are examined.