| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 29, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | PATTERSON UTI ENERGY INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000889900 |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 29, 2023 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-39270 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-2504748 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 10713 W. Sam Houston Pkwy N. |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 800 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77064 |
| City Area Code | 281 |
| Local Phone Number | 765-7100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | PTEN |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
