For simple structures in developing countries, the standard methods of site investigation are considered uneconomical. The dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) has the potential of becoming a simple, rapid, reliable and inexpensive tool that can be used for determining the bearing capacity for foundation design. This study seeks to contribute towards the search for a reasonable correlation by measuring the bearing capacity of a model ground for shallow foundation in the laboratory and correlating it to the DCP test results. A model footing with a rough base was loaded on the surface of a bed of compacted lateritic soil in a Perspex box. The bearing capacity was determined from the stress-penetration curve for different densities ranging from 1.3 Mg/m³ to 1.8Mg/m³. The DCP test was then performed in the mould to obtain the resistance to penetration. Samples were also obtained from the mould and subjected to undrained triaxial compressive test to obtain the strength properties, c and φ. The bearing capacity values obtained from the model tests were correlated with the corresponding cone penetration index values for different densities. The relationships obtained are then compared with the bearing capacity computed using Terzaghi bearing capacity equation. The results are discussed with other correlations available in the literature.