v3.8.0.1
DEI Document - USD ($)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Feb. 08, 2018
Jun. 30, 2017
Document Entity Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name CORE LABORATORIES N V    
Entity Central Index Key 0001000229    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2017    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2017    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   44,164,303  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 4,383,006,513