| Cover | Jan. 27, 2021 | Oct. 22, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | ||
| Document Type | 8-K | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 27, 2021 | |
| Entity File Number | 1-14116 | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CONSUMER PORTFOLIO SERVICES, INC. | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000889609 | |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 33-0459135 | |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | CA | |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3800 Howard Hughes Parkway | |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 1400 | |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Las Vegas | |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NV | |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 89169 | |
| City Area Code | (949) | |
| Local Phone Number | 753-6800 | |
| Written Communications | false | |
| Soliciting Material | false | |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false | |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, no par value | |
| Trading Symbol | CPSS | |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
| Entity Information, Former Legal or Registered Name | Not Applicable |
