The Duolingo English Test (DET) announced on 28 October 2024 that it had introduced a two-camera proctoring system. Both the computer’s webcam and a second camera are now needed to finish the test.
Key facts
- Announced 28 October 2024
- Requirement Webcam plus a secondary camera
- Devices Smartphone or tablet; a second laptop cannot be used
- Status Required to complete the test
Which device to use
The second camera is usually a smartphone, but a tablet also works. If you do not own one, Duolingo says you may borrow a phone. A second laptop is not allowed as the extra camera. The post does not list any exceptions.
Why the change
The DET is taken at home, so proctors can only judge what the cameras show. The second camera gives a view from the side of the test taker, covering the screen, keyboard and surroundings. Duolingo’s review of 2024 described the two-camera system as one of the year’s main security changes, alongside new individual skill subscores and a new interactive writing task.
Later additions
In January 2026 Duolingo described an extended phone set-up, run through its mobile app, that adds a room scan and an ear scan to the secondary camera check.
What this means
Before you buy a test, make sure you have a phone or tablet that can run the DET app and connect to Wi-Fi, plus a way to stand it securely at your side for the whole test. Test the set-up in the room you will use, with the charger plugged in. Read the official rules page shortly before your test, since the security requirements have been tightened more than once and breaking a rule can cost you your certified result.