| Cover | Feb. 18, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 18, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 001-36247 |
| Entity Registrant Name | TORCHLIGHT ENERGY RESOURCES INC |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001431959 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 74-3237581 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | NV |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 5700 W. Plano Parkway |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 3600 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Plano |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75093 |
| City Area Code | 214 |
| Local Phone Number | 432-8002 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | true |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | TRCH |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Contact Personnel Email Address | john@torchlightenergy.com |
