Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

Document and Entity Information

v2.3.0.15
Document and Entity Information (USD $)
In Millions, except Share data
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2011
Nov. 01, 2011
Jun. 30, 2010
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name PARKER DRILLING CO /DE/    
Entity Central Index Key 0000076321    
Document Type 10-Q    
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2011
Amendment Flag false    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011    
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Filer Category Accelerated Filer    
Entity Public Float     $ 446.3
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   117,046,584