Duolingo English Test 2026 Set Up: Secondary Camera & Room Scan Rules

You need two cameras. First camera is your webcam of your PC. Second camera can be a smartphone or tablet placed on a stable surface. To show both your screen and keyboard. This is needed for credible proctoring in DET 2026.

For many Indian students hoping to study abroad, Duolingo English Test (DET) is the best option. Because it is convenient and affordable standardized test. In 2026, taking the test is a little different than it used to be. DET is no longer just a simple webcam test. It is now strictly a two-camera exam. This means you must use your computer camera and a secondary camera (your smartphone) at the same time.

Many students fail their first attempt not because their English is bad, but because they make small mistakes with their setup. If your phone falls down, or if the proctor cannot see your keyboard, your DET result will be invalid. This can be very frustrating and expensive. This guide is here to help you avoid those mistakes.

In this article we will explain exactly how to set up your room for Duolingo English Test 2026. It includes how to perform room scan and how to place your phone correctly. By following these official rules, you can make sure your DET test environment is safe.

What Equipment Do I Need for the Duolingo English Test?

You need to arrange all hardware. You do not need expensive professional equipment, but you must follow the device rules strictly. The test now requires two cameras working at the same time. If you are missing one item, like your ID or a charger, you cannot start the exam. 

• Valid ID: You need a physical government ID card, like a Passport. You cannot use a picture on your phone; you must hold the real card.

• Primary Device (Computer): A Windows or Mac computer with a working webcam, microphone, and speakers.

  • Important: Headphones and earbuds are not allowed. You must use speakers.

• Secondary Device (Phone): A smartphone or tablet to act as the second camera. If you do not have one, you should borrow one for the test.

• A "Stand": A heavy mug, a phone stand, or a stack of books to keep your phone steady during the test.

• Power Chargers: Both your computer and phone must be plugged into power. Video recording drains the battery quickly, and if your phone dies, the test stops.

Ensure you have these items ready before your Duolingo slot booking, as missing one item means you cannot start the exam.

Computer Hygiene: Before You Start

Many students forget this step and fail. Before you even open the DET app:

• Close All Programs: You must close everything else on your computer. This includes Chrome, Zoom, Skype, Discord, and especially Grammarly or other writing helpers. Also, ensure you have closed any digital notes you might have used for Duolingo speaking topics practice.

• Check Background Apps: If a notification pops up on your computer screen during the test your test will be invalid. It includes a screen-sharing app that runs in the background.

How to Prepare My Phone for DET Test?

Once your computer is ready, you need to connect your phone to the test system.

• Duolingo English Test App: The test instructions on your computer screen will show a QR code. Open your phone camera, scan the code, and it will direct you to the DET mobile app.

• Do Not Disturb Rule: This is the most common reason for failure. If your phone rings, vibrates, or gets a WhatsApp message during the exam, your test is over.

  • Action: Turn on "Do Not Disturb" mode.

  • Check Settings: Go to your settings and make sure "Repeat Callers" is turned OFF. Your phone must be completely silent.

Positioning Your Secondary Camera in Duolingo English Test

You must place your phone in the final position for DET test.

• Orientation: Put your phone in Landscape mode (horizontal/sideways).

• Location: Place your phone on your side (left or right). It should be slightly behind you. Not directly in front.

• What Proctor Wants to See: The proctor needs to see three things in the video frame at the same time:

  1. Your computer screen.

  2. Your keyboard and your hands.

  3. Your face (side profile).

If the camera cannot see your screen or your hands, the security check will fail. Use your "stand" or mug to keep the phone safe and stable.

How to Do Room Scan for DET 2026?

Duolingo app will ask you to stand up and scan your room. This is to prove to security proctors. It is to check that you do not have any hidden help. You must do this slowly and clearly. It is a core requirement of the new Duolingo exam pattern. 

• 360 Degree Turn. Stand up and slowly turn in a circle. Show all four walls of your room. Show the door to prove it is closed.

• Desk Check. Point your camera down at your desk. It must be 100% clean. Remove all papers, notebooks, pens, and pencils.

• Behind Screen Check. This is a step many students forget. Lift your phone over your computer monitor. Show the wall behind your computer screen. This proves you do not have cheat sheets or notes taped to the wall.

Do I Need to Make My Ear Visible in DET?

Yes, after the room scan, you may be asked to do an ear scan.

• What to do: Hold the phone camera close to your ears. Show the left ear and the right ear.

• Why: This proves you are not wearing wireless earbuds or headphones. If you have long hair, please tie it back before the test begins so the camera can see your ears clearly. If you are aiming for a high score to meet Duolingo to TOEFL score conversion benchmarks, do not risk a ban by ignoring this step.

Positioning Your Secondary Camera in Duolingo English Test

You must place your phone in the final position for DET test.

• Orientation: Put your phone in Landscape mode (horizontal/sideways).

• Location: Place your phone on your side (left or right). It should be slightly behind you. Not directly in front.

• What Proctor Wants to See: The proctor needs to see three things in the video frame at the same time:

  1. Your computer screen.

  2. Your keyboard and your hands.

  3. Your face (side profile).

If the camera cannot see your screen or your hands, the security check will fail. Use your "stand" or mug to keep the phone safe and stable.

Important Rules for DET 2026

Once the DET test begins, follow these simple rules to keep your score safe:

• Do Not Touch the Phone: Once you set it up, leave it alone. Do not move it.

• Look at Your Screen: Keep your eyes on your computer monitor. Do not look on phone camera.

• What If, Phone Falls: If your phone falls over, the video recording will stop. This usually means DET test is invalid. Make sure your phone is very stable before you start.

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

Candidates looking to study abroad can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance with university applications. Candidates can also write to us in the comments section below.