How long does the Duolingo English Test take? - 2026

According to the official exam guidelines, the Duolingo English Test (DET) takes approximately 1 hour to complete. This blog post provides a detailed explanation of the test components, time allocation for each question type, and the latest setup requirements and major updates candidates should be aware of before 2026.

Duolingo English Test Components and Duration

1. Introduction and Preparation (about 5 minutes): In this phase, test-takers need to ensure that the computer's camera, speakers, and microphone are functioning properly, and they also need to upload a government-issued photo ID.

l New Requirement (2026): Room Scanning – Candidates must now follow the official guide, ensuring that the entire testing environment is visible and free of prohibited materials.

l New Requirement (2026): Ear Scanning – According to the rules, candidates must briefly show both ears to the camera before starting the adaptive section. This ensures that no hidden devices are used.

2. Adaptive Test (about 45 minutes): This is the core part of the test, which measures the test-taker's English proficiency through a series of different question types. The questions are generated randomly, and the difficulty level changes based on the test-taker's performance.

3. Speaking Sample and Writing Sample (about 10 minutes): Test-takers are required to respond to a given prompt either orally or in writing. The speaking sample has a response time of 1-3 minutes, and the writing sample has a response time of 3-5 minutes.

DET Time Allocation for Each Section

Here is the DET exam schedule for each type of question.

In the DET exam, which is adaptive, the frequency and duration of questions can differ from one test to another. Candidates can refer to the frequency of question types from the summaries of their three attempts at the Duolingo English Test below.

Strategies for Handling Duolingo English Test Duration

Effectively managing your time during the Duolingo English Test is crucial for optimizing your performance. The stringent time limits can induce stress, but with the appropriate strategies, test-takers can approach the exam with greater confidence. Time management is vital for performing well on the test. It’s important for candidates to understand the time limits for each section and practice pacing themselves accordingly. Being mindful of these constraints can help alleviate anxiety and enhance overall efficiency during the exam.

1. Monitor Your Pace: Keep track of the time and assign specific minutes to each question or task. This approach helps ensure you don’t spend too long on any individual item.

2. Remain Composed: Utilize relaxation techniques like deep breathing or visualization to alleviate anxiety during the test. Keeping a tranquil mindset can improve your focus and clarity.

3. Practice Exams: Before taking the official test, it's advisable for candidates to participate in multiple practice exams. This not only helps improve familiarity with each question type and time management but can also lead to better scores. You can visit the DET Practice website to practice and take mock exams.