Restructuring and Other Charges - Restructuring Charges By Segment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012		Mar. 31, 2011
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$ 1,723		$ 11,801
Diebold North America [Member] | Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	1,107		(7)
Diebold International [Member] | Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	128		11,605
Diebold International [Member] | Other Restructuring Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$ 488	[1]	$ 203	[1]

[1] Other costs in the DI segment include legal fees, accelerated depreciation and lease termination fees.