How to Unlock the Facebook Dating App for Free

Facebook Dating is a feature designed to help singles meet real people who are interested in genuine relationships. Unlike other dating platforms, Facebook Dating is built into the existing Facebook app, making it convenient and absolutely free to use. However, many users struggle to find or unlock the feature on their account.

If you’re wondering how to activate Facebook Dating on your phone without paying a dime, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly what to do.

1. Download or Update the Facebook App

To unlock Facebook Dating, you must use the latest version of the full Facebook mobile app. The feature is not available on Facebook Lite, web browsers, or desktop versions.

Here’s what to do:

• Open the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your phone.
  
  

• Search for Facebook.
  
  

• Tap Update if you already have it, or Install if you don’t.
  
  

• Once installed, open the app and log in with your regular Facebook account.
  
  

2. Check If You're Eligible

Facebook Dating is only available to users aged 18 and above. If your profile age is under 18, or if your date of birth was entered incorrectly, the feature won’t appear.

To confirm your age:

• Open the Facebook app.
  
  

• Tap your profile picture to open your profile.
  
  

• Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings > Personal Information.
  
  

• Check your date of birth. If it’s incorrect, try to change it. You may be asked to verify with an ID.
  
  

3. Turn On Location Services

Facebook Dating works based on your current location, showing you potential matches nearby. If location is turned off, the Dating feature may stay hidden.

To turn on location:

• Go to your phone’s Settings.
  
  

• Find Facebook in the list of apps.
  
  

• Tap Location and choose “While Using the App.”
  
  

Then go back to the Facebook app and check again.

4. Find the Dating Feature in the Menu

Once your app is updated and your settings are correct, it’s time to locate the Dating section.

To access Facebook Dating:

• Open the Facebook app.
  
  

• Tap the three-line menu icon (bottom-right on iPhone, top-right on Android).
  
  

• Scroll down until you see “Dating” with a heart icon.
  
  

• Tap it to open Facebook Dating.
  
  

If you don’t see the icon, type “Facebook Dating” in the search bar at the top of the app and tap the result.

5. Set Up Your Dating Profile

When you open Facebook Dating for the first time, you’ll be asked to create a separate dating profile. Your friends won’t be notified, and nothing will show up on your main timeline.

To set up your profile:

• Tap Get Started.
  
  

• Choose your gender and match preferences.
  
  

• Allow access to your location.
  
  

• Upload your photos and write a short bio.
  
  

• Answer a few optional questions to help others get to know you.
  
  

• Choose your age range and distance preferences for matches.
  
  

Once complete, your profile will go live and you can start browsing for free.

6. Start Matching and Messaging

Now that your profile is set up, Facebook will show you people who match your interests and location. If you like someone, tap the heart. If they like you back, you’ll be able to chat in a private message thread—no cost, no limits.

You can also comment directly on someone’s prompt or photo to start a conversation.

Final Notes

Unlocking Facebook Dating is simple and completely free. There’s no subscription, no hidden fees, and no need to download another app. Just use the regular Facebook mobile app, set your preferences, and begin meeting new people who are also looking for something real.

If you’ve followed all these steps and still can’t see the Dating feature, wait a day or two and try again—it may be rolling out in your area.

Now go ahead, unlock your Dating profile, and take the first step toward finding someone special.