| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 28, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Security Exchange Name | NONE |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000949039 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 28, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-13926 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 76-0321760 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 15415 Katy Freeway |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77094 |
| City Area Code | 281 |
| Local Phone Number | 492-5300 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | DOFSQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
