| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 05, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | UNIT CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000798949 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 5, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-9260 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 73-1283193 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 8200 South Unit Drive. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Tulsa |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OK |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 74132 |
| City Area Code | (918) |
| Local Phone Number | 493-7700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | UNT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
