DET Setup 2026: Secondary Camera and Room Scan Rules

The Duolingo English Test, or DET, is designed for at-home testing, so the environment setup is crucial for a smooth experience and to avoid invalidation of your results. As of 2026 (based on the latest official updates), the requirements emphasize privacy, security, and clear visibility via your computer's camera plus a secondary camera (your smartphone). DET uses AI and human proctors to review recordings, including a mandatory room scan, ear scan, and ongoing monitoring.

This article explains the complete Duolingo English Test setup, including system requirements, room conditions, and important rules that every test taker must follow before starting the exam.

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Choosing and Preparing Your DET Testing Space

Selecting a quiet, well-lit, and private room is essential for uninterrupted testing. Following simple setup guidelines ensures your environment meets Duolingo’s security standards.

• Must be alone: You must be the only person in the room for the entire test. No family members, roommates, pets, or anyone else can enter, be visible, or heard. Warn household members and lock the door if possible.
• Quiet and distraction-free: Choose a silent room with no background noise (traffic, fans, AC, conversations, construction, etc.). Turn off notifications on all devices and silence phones or alarms.
• Well-lit: Good, even lighting so your face is clearly visible (avoid backlighting from windows or dim rooms). Natural daylight or bright room lights work best.
• Private room: Preferably a closed room (not an open hall or living area). No public spaces like cafes, libraries, or shared co-working areas.
• Clear workspace: Keep your desk or table simple and clean:
  • Remove all papers, notes, books, calculators, sticky notes, or any written/printed material.
  • No external monitors, extra screens, or multiple computers.
  • Only one keyboard and one mouse allowed.

Pro tip for Indian homes: If power cuts are common in your area, use a UPS or inverter, or a laptop battery backup. Schedule the test during stable power hours.

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DET Secondary Camera Setup

A secondary camera is used to capture your desk, hands, and side view during the test. Proper positioning and stability ensure full visibility for proctors.

• Required: A smartphone or tablet with a working camera.
• Purpose: Acts as a second proctoring camera to capture your:
  • Side or profile view
  • Keyboard and hands
  • Full desk and surrounding area
• How to position it:
  • Place it to the side (left or right) of your computer.
  • Angle it so the test screen, keyboard, your hands, and part of your face and upper body are visible.
  • Use a stable stand, heavy object, or prop to hold it (no hand-holding during test).
  • Connect to Wi-Fi.
• Additional checks: You will do an “ear scan” (show both ears clearly) and ensure no earbuds or headphones are used.

Tip: You can borrow a phone if needed, but no secondary laptop or computer is allowed.

Ques. What if my secondary camera battery dies during the test?

Ques. Can I reposition my secondary camera during the exam?

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DET Technical Setup Requirements

Your computer, webcam, microphone, and internet must meet Duolingo’s specifications. Running the readiness check in advance prevents technical disruptions.

• Computer: Laptop or desktop (Windows or macOS). No tablets, Chromebooks (unless fully supported), or virtual machines.
• Desktop App: Download and install the official Duolingo English Test app from englishtest.duolingo.com (not the mobile app).
• Hardware:
  • Front-facing webcam (built-in or external).
  • Microphone and speakers (test them in the readiness check).
  • Stable internet: At least 2 Mbps download speed and 1 Mbps upload speed are needed.
• Software rules:
  • Close all other programs, tabs, and background apps.
  • Disable predictive text, auto-correct, grammar checkers, screen-sharing, VPNs (unless necessary), or any AI or reference tools.
  • No external headphones, earbuds, or audio devices allowed (you will be flagged).
• Before starting: Run the full readiness check on the site. It tests the camera, mic, speakers, and internet, and guides you through setup.

Ensure you have these items ready before your DET booking, as missing one item means you cannot start the test.

Ques. What should I do if my internet fluctuates during the test?

Ques. Can I use a laptop and a smartphone on different networks for the DET?

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What NOT To Do During the DET

Following strict behavior rules during the test is mandatory. Any prohibited actions, such as looking away, using notes, or headphones, can invalidate your DET result.

• Looking away from the screen for long periods (proctors monitor eye movement).
• Talking to anyone or receiving help.
• Using notes, phones (except secondary camera), or other devices.
• Wearing hats, sunglasses, or anything covering the ears and face excessively.
• Eating, drinking (except water in a clear bottle, if needed).
• Leaving the seat or going out of frame.
• Any attempt to access other apps or windows (test locks down your computer).

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Quick Checklist Before the DET Test Day

A final pre-test checklist ensures your devices, room, and ID are ready for a smooth test experience. This helps minimize last-minute issues on exam day.

1. Test your setup with the free official practice test (unlimited attempts at englishtest.duolingo.com).
2. Do a full mock run, including room scan and secondary camera positioning.
3. Charge all devices and have backups (power bank for phone, charged laptop).
4. Clear the room and desk completely.
5. Have your valid ID ready (passport mandatory for Indian students).
6. Schedule during a low-distraction time (e.g., early morning or late night if quiet).

If you fail due to a rule violation, practicing with Duolingo practice papers won't save your attempt.

Taking the DET in 2026 requires careful preparation of both your technical setup and testing environment. Ensuring your computer, internet, cameras, and room meet all requirements reduces the risk of test invalidation. Completing the room scan, secondary camera setup, and readiness checks before test day makes the exam smoother and stress-free. By following these rules precisely, you can focus on performing your best and submitting valid results to universities.