v3.3.1.900
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
$ in Billions
12 Months Ended
Jan. 31, 2016
Mar. 09, 2016
Jul. 31, 2015
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name AUTODESK INC.    
Entity Central Index Key 0000769397    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --01-31    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Jan. 31, 2016    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2016    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   224,493,192  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float     $ 11.4