Document and Entity Information
| Document and Entity Information Document | Aug. 03, 2020 | Feb. 12, 2020 |
| Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
| Document Type | 8-K | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
| Entity Registrant Name | QUIDEL CORP /DE/ | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000353569 | |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 3, 2020 | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.001 Par Value | |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE | |
| Entity File Number | 0-10961 | |
| Trading Symbol | QDEL | |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Written Communications | false | |
| Soliciting Material | false | |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false | |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false | |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 94-2573850 | |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 9975 Summers Ridge Road | |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA | |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92121 | |
| City Area Code | 858 | |
| Local Phone Number | 552-1100 | |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Diego |