v3.8.0.1
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Jan. 31, 2018
Jun. 30, 2017
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]      
Document Type 10-K    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2017    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2017    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Trading Symbol PRU    
Entity Registrant Name PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0001137774    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   422 427
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Public Float     $ 46,180
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes