10 Important Rules Not To Break In Duolingo English Test

“Your test could not be certified.”

Once you receive this notification, you’ve probably broken one or more Duolingo English Test (DET) rules.

No one wants to get this on their test result.

Thus, the best way to avoid this terrible scenario is to become familiar with the rules. 

Follow along with LUME for more details!

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Key Takeaways

• Duolingo issues a list of rules and requirements to ensure a smooth test and a fair result.
• The test requires candidates to be in a quiet and well-lit testing environment.
• The test environment must have good lighting to ensure your face is clearly visible on camera.
• Looking away from the screen is strictly prohibited to confirm that you are not reading from your notes or getting help from others.
• Candidates need to check their computer and internet connection before taking the test to ensure smooth performance.
• Check out 7 more rules below to follow for a valid result!

10 Duolingo English Test  (DET) Rules 

Maintain Eye Contact With The Screen

It’s one of the most important rules to ensure your result is not uncertified.

The purpose of this rule is to prevent cheating, such as reading from notes or getting help from someone else.

However, you can look down at your keyboard to type answers in the writing questions.

Yet, this off-screen time should not exceed 3 seconds.

No External Assistance Allowed

Your computer must not run any browser extensions or other software or programs while you take the Duolingo English Test (DET).

Restarting your computer and closing all applications before starting will prevent rule violations.

Unauthorized materials such as notes, textbooks, translators, dictionaries, and similar devices are not allowed. Paper and other writing materials are strictly prohibited during the exam.

You also can’t receive assistance from anyone else, but you need to complete the test all on your own.

Keep Your Face, Ears, And Mouth Visible

Your face needs to be within the camera frame, and all features need to be visible. 

Therefore, don’t sit too far back or too far to the sides so the camera can capture you clearly.

You also can’t cover your eyes, ears, or mouth during the test.

And remember not to speak until you’re allowed to.

Answer In Your Own Words

Memorizing answers from other sources is not acceptable.

The proctors are looking for the candidates to answer in their own words.

Yet, it does not mean you can’t use templates.

The key is that your answers need to be unique.  

Plus, remember that saving and recording test questions are prohibited. 

No Taking Notes Needed

The Duolingo English Test (DET) does not require note-taking.

Therefore, you need to put your mobile devices, note pads, pens, and papers out of the test room.

Keep The Test Window Open All The Time

This rule is set to prevent you from seeking help from other resources.

Thus, you can’t leave the test window until it’s over; otherwise, your result will be uncertified.

Do Not Register Multiple Accounts

Each candidate can register for only one account to take the test.

Even if you sign up for secondary ones, the results from them will not be certified. 

Use Your Own Valid ID

Duolingo only accepts physical ID, not photocopies or digital images.

The valid ID requirement varies by country.

For example, Indian candidates can use only their passports, whereas in China, both a passport and a government photo ID are accepted. In many countries, a government ID such as a driver’s license may also be accepted as valid identification.

You can check what document is used in your country to verify your identity here.

No Background Noise & No Music Allowed

It’s crucial to keep background noise to a minimum when taking the Duolingo tests.

Noises such as music or people talking loudly behind you are not acceptable.

These disruptions can significantly affect your answer recordings and, in the end, your test result. 

No Touching Your Camera During the Test

You need to set up your camera properly before starting the test.

If you take the test on your laptop, the camera is already perfectly installed.

However, if you have a webcam, ensure it is in front of you and at eye level.

Don’t put it on the side or upper from your head; otherwise, your face features won’t be visible properly.

How To Avoid Breaking The Rules

Review The Test Rules Carefully

Breaking a rule, no matter if you do it intentionally or not, will invalidate your result.

Therefore, ensure you understand all the rules before starting the test.

You can visit Duolingo’s Readiness Guide to review the test rules. 

Take A Practice Test

Duolingo provides unlimited free practice tests for candidates. Taking practice tests can help you determine which areas you need to focus on and how well you understand the test format.

Take this opportunity to get comfortable with the test’s format as much as you can.

Furthermore, it helps you check if you meet all the test’s requirements, such as the technical setup or testing environment.

Take your time to improve these issues before officially starting.

Test Your Internet Speed & Device Before Starting

It’s an essential step to ensure no interruptions occur during testing.

Duolingo recommends using a wired internet connection rather than Wi-Fi since its transmission is more reliable. 

If you use Wi-Fi, ensure the connection is stable so the test goes smoothly.

Remove Any Installed Screen Recording or Remote Tools

It’s an important pre-test preparation since closing or removing these tools during testing time seriously violates the rule.

This step must be completed BEFORE the test.

The list of apps to uninstall includes screen recording, remote desktop software, writing assistants, and messaging applications.

It’s always better to restart your computer immediately before the test so that no application runs in the background. 

Sit in a Well-Lit Environment (No Shadows)

A well-lit environment guarantees all your facial features are visible. 

Use artificial light if your room is not bright enough.

If you can’t have a light above you, get a lamp and put it in front of you, behind the laptop.

Don’t put it behind your back! 

Otherwise, the light will actually cast a shadow and make your face look darker and harder to capture.

Stay Confident

After practicing and preparing, you’re ready for the test.

The last thing you need to do is to be confident.

If you follow the rule, success is within your reach. 

FAQs 

What Are The Consequences Of Breaking Duolingo English Test Rules?

Breaking any of the Duolingo test rules will lead to one or more of the following situations:

• Your result will not be certified.  
• Previously certified results will be invalid.
• Your account will be temporarily suspended.
• Your account will be permanently blocked.

Note that Duolingo will not provide any refund in any of these cases.

Are Headscarves Allowed During the Duolingo English Test (DET)?

Yes, Hijab—the religious headscarf—is allowed during the Duolingo English test (DET).

Can I Wear Earphones or Headphones During the Test?

No, you can’t use earphones or headphones during the Duolingo English test (DET). 

It’s considered violating the rule.

Can I Use a Second Monitor or External Keyboard?

A second monitor is not allowed.

If the test software detects it, you’ll be disconnected from the test.

An external keyboard is allowed.

However, you must use only one keyboard during the test.

Thus, choose one and don’t switch back and forth between the built-in and external keyboards. 

Will My Test Be Cancelled If Someone Walks Behind Me?

Yes, it’s the most likely outcome when this situation happens.

In some cases, after considering, the proctors believe it occurred unintentionally and offer a free retake.

However, it might mentally affect your next performance.

Therefore, ensure you strictly follow the rule “be alone in the room while testing.”

Conclusion 

Duolingo English Test (DET) rules are there to ensure all results are accurate and fair. 

Candidates must follow them strictly to avoid being uncertified.

Having more practice, well preparing, and checking before starting the test will minimize rule violations.

Want to ACE the Duolingo English Test (DET) And Reach Your Goals? Get Your FREE Lume Account Today to Unlock… ✅ 10,000+ PRACTICE QUESTIONS with detailed answers ✅ FREE MOCK TESTS with fast & accurate AI scoring ✅ Get BETTER SCORES with a PERSONALIZED study plan GET YOUR FREE ACCOUNT NOW (Limited seats available!)