How to Scan Your Room Before the Duolingo English Test (2025)

Starting at 8:00 AM ET on September 15, 2025, the Duolingo English Test will introduce a new security requirement: all test takers must use their mobile phone to scan their testing room before starting the exam. This update strengthens the integrity of the Duolingo English Test and ensures that every student takes the exam under fair conditions.

Why Did the Duolingo English Test Add Room Scanning?

In previous sessions, some Duolingo English Test candidates attempted to cheat by using multiple devices, such as extra phones, tablets, or other electronics. Such behavior violates the rules and reduces the trustworthiness of the Duolingo English Test.

To prevent this, the Duolingo English Test has introduced a mandatory 360° room scan. With this step, candidates must show their testing environment using their phone’s camera, making it much harder to use unauthorized devices.

Step-by-Step Guide for Duolingo English Test Room Scanning

Before you begin the Duolingo English Test, you must complete the following process:

1. Open the Duolingo English Test desktop app and log in.

2. Continue until you are prompted to set up your phone.

3. Scan the QR code: Please use your phone's camera to scan the QR code, and do not use any other apps. Then, enter the four-digit verification code. If scanning the QR code fails, please open your phone's browser and type in the URL above the QR code.

4. Ensure your phone is fully charged before the Duolingo English Test.

5. Enable “Do Not Disturb” mode (or Airplane Mode with Wi-Fi) to avoid interruptions during the Duolingo English Test.

6. Allow the desktop app to access your phone’s sensors and camera.

7. Stand up and point your phone at the computer (if you have a swivel chair, you can remain seated). Make sure the entire screen and keyboard are in the frame.

8. Rotate slowly in a circle to capture a 360° scan of your room.

9. Point the phone back at your computer to confirm the screen and keyboard.

10. Move the phone above your computer to show the area behind the monitor.

Once the scan is complete, your phone will remain active during the Duolingo English Test to help verify your environment.

What If the Duolingo English Test Room Scan Fails?

If the room scan does not clearly capture your surroundings, the Duolingo English Test will mark your results as invalid due to a technical error.
However, if you still have attempts remaining, the Duolingo English Test will allow you to retake the exam for free.

Final Thoughts

This new requirement shows how the Duolingo English Test is committed to maintaining fairness and security. Starting September 15, 2025, every candidate must complete the room scanning process before starting the Duolingo English Test. By following these steps carefully, you can avoid technical issues and focus on achieving your best score.

If you want to learn more about the setup for the secondary camera in the Duolingo English Test, you can check out this article: "Quick Guide: Master DET's New Secondary Camera Requirements in Under 5 Minutes."