1. Basis of Presentation and Use of Estimates Reclassification R&D Credits (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Research and Development Expense	$ 55,717	$ 51,841	$ 108,260	$ 102,184
Net income attributable to Bio-Rad	31,631	34,602	38,299	54,753
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	17,166	14,442	25,036	18,317
Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment [Member] | Restatement Adjustment [Member]
Research and Development Expense		(1,400)		(3,000)
Net income attributable to Bio-Rad		(100)		600
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)		$ 1,500		$ 2,400