Thousands of Duolingo English Test (DET) scores are invalidated every month.
For students applying to the 2026 university intake, the 2025 Duolingo English Test (DET) rules are non-negotiable and the strictest ever enforced. This is not a casual test; the platform uses advanced AI and human proctors that are trained to detect the smallest deviations: a second look off-screen, a subtle reflection, or a slightly obscured identification card.
This guide is the definitive, zero-tolerance checklist designed to guarantee a verified score.
We have divided the current rules into three core sections covering ID and biometrics, environment setup, and test conduct. These sections explain exactly what the proctors focus on during the test. Follow this guide precisely to avoid losing your test credit, prevent a suspension, and ensure your DET result is accepted by every university on your list.
Overview of Duolingo English Test Rules (2026 Update)
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The Duolingo English Test (DET) 2026 rules focus on stricter identity checks, cleaner room setups, and tighter behaviour requirements to maintain exam integrity. These guidelines explain how to prepare your space, how to behave on camera, and which devices or actions can lead to invalidation.
Key updates for 2026 include:
- Enhanced AI plus human proctor monitoring for continuous oversight.
- Clearer room and background rules to prevent any movement or external help.
- Stricter ID verification, with passports remaining compulsory for Indian students.
- Higher scrutiny of device activity, including software, extensions, and background apps.
These changes align with Duolingo’s 2024 Transparency Report, which recorded more flagged attempts due to background movement and ID mismatches. Knowing these updates helps you avoid common mistakes and complete a valid attempt confidently.
Duolingo Account Creation Rules and Test Attempt Policies
To maintain fairness and prevent misuse, the Duolingo English Test rules include strict policies around accounts and test attempts. Any violation can lead to invalidation or a permanent ban, so students should follow them closely.
Key rules for 2026:
- Single-account policy
Only one account can be used for buying, taking, and sending test scores. Multiple accounts are not allowed. - 21-day test credit validity
After purchase, you have 21 days to begin the test before the credit expires. - 30-day attempt limit
You can take up to two attempts within 30 days. Invalid attempts still count. - Bundle test rules
The bundle includes two attempts, but both must follow the same rules. An invalid attempt uses up a credit. - Account ban triggers
Using multiple accounts, VPNs, external help, or sharing test content can lead to long-term or permanent bans.
Understanding these rules helps you avoid penalties and protects your chance of getting a valid score for 2026 applications.
ID Requirements for Duolingo English Test 2026 (Country-Wise)
The Duolingo English Test for 2026 has specific identification requirements that every test taker must meet. Most score rejections are linked to incorrect or unclear documents, so meeting these requirements is essential for a smooth verification process.
Accepted ID types for all countries
- Valid passport
- Government driver’s licence
- National ID card
- Residence permit
ID requirement for Indian students
Indian test takers must use a valid passport. Aadhaar, PAN, voter cards, and student IDs are not accepted for 2026 verification.
Common reasons IDs are rejected
- Blurry or low-quality images
- Expired or damaged ID
- Name mismatch between the ID and the Duolingo profile
- Cropped images, reflections, or glare
How ID verification works
- You upload a clear photo of your ID at the start of the test.
- The system checks clarity, holograms, name, and date of birth using automated screening.
- Human reviewers confirm the match before your score is released.
Meeting these identification requirements increases the chances of your 2026 Duolingo English Test score being accepted without delays.
Room and Environment Rules for the Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test rules for room setup are strict because background movement and noise are among the most common reasons attempts get flagged. These Duolingo test rules ensure your environment is fully controlled and free from interruptions.
Room setup requirements for 2026:
- For your test environment, you must be in a quiet, private, well lit room with no other person present.
- The door must be visible in the video frame so proctors can confirm the space is private.
- Background should be plain with no reflective surfaces, posters, or screens that could distract or hide movement.
- Lighting must be clear enough to show your face and surroundings without shadows.
Why are interruptions not allowed:
- Even a brief appearance of another person, a shadow behind you, or a door opening can result in instant invalidation.
- Background noises like talking, typing from another device, or footsteps can trigger a review flag.
What proctors check in your environment:
- Room privacy and door visibility
- Absence of people, devices, or notes
- Lighting quality and camera angle
- Consistent background with no movement
Following these environment-based Duolingo English Test rules helps ensure your 2026 attempt is accepted without delays.
Personal Conduct Duolingo English Test Rules During the Exam
The Duolingo English Test rules closely monitor how you behave on camera, since proctors rely on eye movement, posture, and audio clarity to confirm test integrity. These Duolingo test rules apply from start to finish with no breaks allowed.
Key behaviour rules for 2026:
- Keep your eyes focused on the screen except when typing. Repeated glances away from the monitor can trigger a review.
- Stay centered and fully visible in the camera frame. Avoid leaning out, turning away, or shifting positions frequently.
- Speak clearly during speaking tasks without covering your mouth. Whispering or muffled speech will be flagged during review.
- Keep your hands visible and use them only for typing. Avoid gestures or movements that appear unusual or distracting.
- Do not pause or step away after the test begins. The session must be completed in one continuous sitting.
Instant invalidation triggers:
- Looking at another device or screen
- Covering your mouth or face
- Speaking when there is no speaking task
- Movements suggesting someone else is in the room
Device, Software, and Internet Duolingo English Test Rules
The Duolingo English Test rules for devices and connectivity are designed to prevent technical interference that could affect monitoring. These Duolingo test rules apply from setup to the final submission.
Computer Requirements
- Use a laptop or desktop with a functioning camera, microphone, and speakers.
- External webcams and mics are allowed only if clearly visible and stable.
- Tablets, phones, and dual-screen setups are not permitted.
- If Duolingo reintroduces the optional secondary-camera scan in 2026, you may be asked to show your surroundings before starting.
Software Restrictions
- The test must stay in full-screen mode, with the cursor inside the window.
- Close all apps, notifications, extensions, and tools like Grammarly before starting.
- VPNs, screen sharers, and remote-access tools violate exam integrity and lead to rejection.
Internet Rules
- A stable, consistent connection is required from start to finish.
- Both Wi-Fi and wired internet work, but wired is less prone to drops.
- If the connection repeatedly cuts, proctors may be unable to verify continuity, resulting in invalidation.
These device and connectivity rules ensure your 2026 attempt runs without interruptions.
Prohibited Items and Behaviours in Duolingo English Test Rules
The Duolingo English Test rules strictly ban certain items and actions because they interfere with monitoring. These Duolingo test rules apply from the moment the test setup begins.
Not allowed in 2026:
- Phones, tablets, smartwatches, or any wearable tech
- Headphones, earbuds, or external audio devices
- Notes, papers, books, or written material
- Second monitors or extra input devices
Behaviours that violate rules:
- Using AI tools, memorised scripts, or copied responses
- Looking off-screen for cues or reading from notes
- Taking screenshots or recording the test
- Any form of external help, spoken or unspoken
Even small actions, like adjusting another device or glancing away repeatedly, can lead to immediate invalidation in 2026.
Speaking and Writing Requirements in the Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test rules for Speaking and Writing samples ensure your responses are genuine and recorded without outside help. These Duolingo test rules are closely monitored because the samples are often shared with universities.
Requirements for 2026:
- You must remain fully visible on camera while speaking or typing. Any obstruction or movement out of frame can lead to rejection.
- Your eyes must stay directed toward the screen. Frequent shifts in eye movement can be interpreted as seeking external help.
- Your speech must be clear and audible, and your mouth must remain visible. Whispering or covering your mouth is not allowed.
- All typed responses must be produced naturally without referring to notes, drafts, or memorised text.
- Each speaking or writing sample must be completed in a single continuous attempt. Pausing or stopping midway is not permitted.
What reviewers look for:
- Steady eye contact and consistent posture
- Natural pacing in speech and writing
- No signs of reading or listening to off-screen cues
Avoid turning away, pausing unnaturally, or using memorised templates, as these behaviours are often flagged during review.
What Happens If You Break Duolingo Test Rules (2026 Penalties)
The Duolingo English Test rules come with strict consequences, and breaking these Duolingo test rules can affect both your current and future attempts.
Penalties in 2026:
- Immediate invalidation with no score issued.
- No refunds, even for bundle attempts.
- Temporary or permanent bans for serious violations like external help or multiple accounts.
- Delayed score review if behaviour appears suspicious.
- Pattern reporting to universities when institutions request verification.
Common violations that led to bans:
- Using VPNs or screen-sharing tools
- Whispering, looking off-screen, or responding to hidden prompts
- Reading from notes during speaking or writing tasks
- Creating multiple accounts for repeat attempts
Sticking to the rules ensures your 2026 score is released smoothly and accepted by universities.
What to Expect on Duolingo English Test Day in 2026
Understanding the test flow helps you follow all major Duolingo English Test rules and avoid issues that commonly break Duolingo test rules during the 2026 cycle.
Identity verification:
- You start by capturing a clear photo of your face and ID.
- AI checks the details instantly, followed by human confirmation.
Environment scan:
- The system reviews your room setup, door visibility, and lighting.
- You may be asked to adjust your angle so the background is fully visible.
Audio-video checks:
- Quick tests ensure your camera, mic, and speakers meet requirements.
- Any issues must be fixed before the exam begins.
During-test monitoring:
- AI monitors eye movement, posture, audio, and background activity.
- Human proctors review the full recording after submission.
Post-test review:
- Your attempt goes through integrity checks before score release.
- If anything needs clarification, the review may extend beyond the usual 48 hours.
This workflow helps you understand what happens on test day so you can follow the rules confidently in 2026.
Conclusion
The latest Duolingo English Test rules for 2026 focus heavily on secure testing behaviour, consistent ID checks, and strict room and device conditions. Keeping these guidelines in mind helps you avoid invalidation and ensures your results are processed smoothly for upcoming applications. As long as you prepare your setup carefully and follow the on-screen instructions without deviation, your test experience remains straightforward and fully compliant with current requirements.
If you need guidance on preparation, scores, or university options, LeapScholar can support you with personalised advice for your study-abroad plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I drink during a Duolingo test?
No. The Duolingo English Test rules do not allow drinking or eating during the exam. Any movement that looks like a break or distraction can be flagged and may lead to invalidation.
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What are the criteria for Duolingo English Test?
The key criteria include a private room, a laptop or desktop with a working camera and mic, a valid ID (passport for Indian students), stable internet, and consistent on-camera behaviour. These criteria come directly from the core Duolingo test rules for 2026.
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Can I use ChatGPT in Duolingo test?
No. Using ChatGPT or any external assistance violates the Duolingo English Test rules. Opening another device, tool, or browser window can result in immediate invalidation or a ban.
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What happens if I break a rule during the Duolingo test?
Rule violations such as using unauthorised devices, having other people in the room, inappropriate lighting or camera angles, or failing the ID and environment verification can lead to your test being invalidated. Your score may not be accepted by universities if these rules are not followed.
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Are there any special rules on how I should behave during the Duolingo test?
Yes. During your DET attempt you must:
Stay visible on camera throughout the test.- Not leave the seat unless authorized by test rules (e.g., technical issues).
- Not use other browsers, apps, second monitors, phones (aside from the second-device camera setup) or any unauthorised materials.
- Not communicate with anyone, have anyone in the room, or show signs of cheating assistance.
Non-compliance leads to the risk of invalidation or suspension. -
Does Duolingo record your screen?
Duolingo does not record your full screen, but according to the Duolingo test rules, it enforces full-screen mode and monitors cursor activity and window switching. Your camera and microphone feed are fully recorded for proctor review.
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Are my speaking and writing responses part of the rules in any special way?
Yes. For speaking, you must start recording at the correct time and remain visibly engaged until your response is done. The audio cues in “Interactive Speaking” cannot be replayed; you have one chance per question.
For writing, you should type responses without accessing other windows or resources; unauthorised copying or reference use violates the rules and can nullify your responses. -
How long is the score valid, and what are the score-sharing rules?
Your DET score is valid for two years from the date of test completion unless the test provider updates this rule. The score-sharing system allows you to send results to multiple institutions, but you must ensure the receiving institutions accept DET and that you followed all rules on test day.
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