| Document and Entity Information Document | Jan. 06, 2022 |
| 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 | Jan. 6, 2022 |
| 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 | true |
| 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 |
