The invention provides a drive device for a mechanical press with a two-step speed reduction mechanism for driving a slide of the mechanical press and includes a drive pinion provided concentrically with a crankshaft, a main gear mounted on said crankshaft, intermediate gears meshing with the drive pinion, and intermediate pinions meshing with the main gear. A plurality of the intermediate gears and the intermediate pinions are provided concentrically with each other. An intermediate gear that meshes with the drive pinion is arranged concentric with an intermediate pinion that meshes with a main gear. This drive device provides a more compact mechanical press.