| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 22, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | AWARE INC /MA/ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001015739 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 22, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | MA |
| Entity File Number | 000-21129 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-2911026 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 40 Middlesex Turnpike |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Bedford |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01730 |
| City Area Code | (781) |
| Local Phone Number | 276-4000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | AWRE |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
