| Cover | Jun. 14, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 14, 2022 |
| Entity File Number | 0-15057 |
| Entity Registrant Name | PAM TRANSPORTATION SERVICES INC |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000798287 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 71-0633135 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 297 West Henri De Tonti |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Tontitown |
| Entity Address, State or Province | AR |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 72770 |
| City Area Code | (479) |
| Local Phone Number | 361-9111 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | PTSI |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
