v3.8.0.1
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Mar. 01, 2018
Jun. 30, 2017
Document And Entity Information      
Entity Registrant Name CONSUMER PORTFOLIO SERVICES INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0000889609    
Document Type 10-K    
Trading Symbol CPSS    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2017    
Amendment Flag false    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity a Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity a Voluntary Filer No    
Entity's Reporting Status Current Yes    
Entity Filer Category Accelerated Filer    
Entity Public Float     $ 77,253,103
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   21,620,233  
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2017