If you’re single and ready to mingle but tired of the same old dating apps where conversations go nowhere, it might be time to try something different, like Facebook Dating.
Yep, Facebook isn’t just for memes and checking in on your aunt’s vacation photos anymore. It’s quietly become a solid way to meet other singles. And the best part? You don’t even need to download a new app.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to sign up for Facebook Dating, how to meet real singles, and how to actually start dating without wasting time or feeling overwhelmed.
Why Facebook Dating Is Worth Checking Out
Let’s be honest: dating apps are everywhere, and most of them feel like the same old thing. Swipe, match, ghost. Repeat.
Facebook Dating brings something a little different to the table:
- No swiping required.
- Uses your real interests, groups, and events to match you with people who actually share your vibe
- No separate app—it’s built right into Facebook.
- Privacy-friendly—your friends won’t know you’re using it unless you want them to.
So, if you’re already spending time on Facebook, why not use it to meet someone new?
How to Sign Up for Facebook Dating (Step-by-Step)
Getting started with Facebook Dating is simple. You don’t need to create a new account or download anything extra. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Update Your Facebook App
Make sure you have the latest version of the Facebook app. Facebook Dating only works on the mobile app—not on desktop or the Lite version.
Step 2: Open Facebook and Tap the Menu
On your Facebook home screen, tap the three horizontal lines (the hamburger menu) in the bottom-right corner (iPhone) or top-right (Android).
Step 3: Scroll Down to “Dating”
Look for the Dating option. It might be under “See More” if it doesn’t pop up immediately.
Step 4: Set Up Your Dating Profile
Facebook will walk you through setting up a separate dating profile—this is different from your main Facebook profile. You’ll:
- Add photos.
- Write a short bio.
- Set preferences (age, distance, gender, etc.).
- Answer a few fun prompts if you want.
Once you’re done, Facebook will start showing you potential matches.
And don’t worry—your Facebook friends won’t see your dating profile unless you both opt into the Secret Crush feature (more on that later).
Who Can Use Facebook Dating?
Before you jump in, make sure you meet these basic requirements:
- You must be 18 or older.
- You must live in a country where Facebook Dating is available.
- You need the latest version of the Facebook app (not the Lite version).
- Your account must be in good standing (no recent bans or suspicious activity).
As of now, Facebook Dating is available in over 50 countries, including the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, and most of Europe.
How to Meet Singles on Facebook Dating
Okay, you’re in. Now what?
1. Set Clear Preferences
Start by adjusting your preferences for:
- Gender
- Age range
- Distance
- Height (optional)
- Kids, religion, education, etc.
This helps Facebook show you better matches that actually fit what you’re looking for.
2. Use the “Secret Crush” Feature
Got someone in mind already? Facebook Dating lets you pick up to nine Facebook friends or Instagram followers as “secret crushes.” If they also add you to their list, Facebook notifies you both that there’s a mutual interest.
If they don’t add you? They’ll never know. It stays private.
3. Connect Through Shared Interests
One cool thing about Facebook Dating: it uses your activity across Facebook to find compatible singles. You’ll often get matched with people who:
- Are in the same Facebook groups
- Attended the same events
- Have similar interests or pages liked
This makes your matches more relevant—and gives you instant conversation starters.
4. Answer Profile Prompts
Facebook gives you a set of prompts to help show off your personality (like “My idea of a perfect day is…” or “The most spontaneous thing I’ve ever done…”). Use these to make your profile more engaging.
They also give other users something fun to reply to, which helps kick off the conversation.
How to Start Dating on Facebook (and Not Just Matching)
Getting matches is great, but the goal is to move from matching to actual dating, right? Here’s how to make that happen.
1. Send a Thoughtful First Message
Skip the basic “Hey” or “What’s up?” messages. Start with something based on their profile, a shared interest, or even a funny icebreaker.
Examples:
“I saw you’re into photography. What’s your favorite thing to shoot?”
“We both liked that 90s music group. Best boy band: *NSYNC or Backstreet Boys?”
Being specific makes your message stand out and gives them something to respond to.
2. Be Consistent, But Don’t Overdo It
If you match with someone and they reply, keep the conversation going—but don’t be overbearing.
Send one message, wait for a reply, and keep it casual. Bombarding someone with five messages if they haven’t responded yet? Bad move.
3. Move to a Date (or Video Chat) Quickly
Once there’s a vibe, don’t let the convo die in the app. Suggest meeting up—or at least hopping on a video call.
Examples:
“I’m really enjoying our chats. Want to grab coffee this weekend?”
“Would you be down for a quick video chat sometime this week?”
Facebook Dating doesn’t have a video call feature inside the dating section, but you can easily jump to Messenger if you’re both comfortable.
Extra Tips to Improve Your Dating Profile
If you’re serious about meeting someone, take a few minutes to make your profile stand out.
1. Use Clear, Recent Photos
- Show your face (no sunglasses in every pic).
- Smile
- Avoid heavy filters.
- Add a mix of solo shots and activity photos.
2. Write a Short but Honest Bio
- Share what you like, what you’re looking for, or a fun fact.
- Keep it casual and real.
- Avoid cliché lines like “Just ask” or “I hate writing these things.”
3. Stay Active
Like a few profiles every day. The more active you are, the more visible your profile becomes.
Pros and Cons of Facebook Dating
Let’s keep it real—no platform is perfect. Here’s what’s good (and not so good) about Facebook Dating.
Pros
- No extra app to download
- Uses shared interests and activity for smarter matches
- More low-key and authentic than swiping apps
- Built-in privacy controls
- Free (no premium paywall)
Cons
- Only available on mobile
- Still relatively new, so fewer users than Tinder or Bumble
- Not as well-known, so some people may not even know it exists.
How to Stay Safe While Dating Online
Whether it’s Facebook Dating or any app, safety matters. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Meet in public places for the first few dates.
- Tell a friend where you’re going.
- Don’t share personal info (address, financials, etc.) right away.
- Use Messenger’s live location feature if you’re meeting someone from the app.
Trust your gut. If something feels off, block and report the user.
What Happens If You Don’t See the Facebook Dating Option?
Can’t find the Dating feature? Here are a few quick fixes:
- Update your app.
- Make sure you’re using the regular Facebook app, not Facebook Lite.
- Check if you’re in a supported country.
- Your account must be in good standing—no bans or restrictions.
If everything looks good and you still don’t see it, log out and back in, or reinstall the app.
Conclusion
Facebook Dating might not be the first app you think of when it comes to meeting singles—but that’s kind of the point. It’s more low-key, less about swiping, and more about actually connecting with people who have things in common with you.
Signing up is simple. Meeting singles is even easier if you take the time to create a solid profile and start conversations that go beyond “Hey.”
Whether you’re new to online dating or just looking for a fresh start, Facebook Dating is definitely worth exploring.
And who knows? Your next great match could be someone who’s already in your circle, just waiting to connect.
Need help writing your Facebook Dating profile or first message? Drop me a few details, and I’ll help you craft something that gets results.