SCHEDULE II - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Net income	$ 88,472	$ 76,248	$ 53,004	$ 73,878	$ 60,142	$ 70,911	$ 81,627	$ 95,856	$ 291,602	$ 308,536	$ 323,756
Other comprehensive income									(1,272,158)
PROTECTIVE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Net income									291,602	308,536	323,756
Other comprehensive income									(1,272,158)	756,803	696,481
Total other comprehensive income									$ (980,556)	$ 1,065,339	$ 1,020,237