How Long Should You Date Before Making It Official?

Download Article
Download Article

Wondering how long it takes for casual dating to turn into an exclusive relationship? Have you gone on a few dates with somebody and you’re wondering if it’s “too early” to make the jump? Luckily, it’s easy to figure out when you’re ready to make the plunge, and there’s plenty of data out there when it comes to how long the typical transition from dating to commitment takes. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about what it takes to turn a few dates into a serious relationship.
This article is based on an interview with our dating coach, Candice Mostisser. Check out the full interview here.

Section 1 of 3:

How long should I date someone before committing?

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    There is no “one size fits all” rule here. If you date someone once a week, you’ll get to know them intimately a whole lot faster than if you two dated once a month. If you’re seeing your date every other day or so, you might be comfortable committing in a week! Alternatively, it might take a few months if you only occasionally hang. [1]
    • Don’t worry about fulfilling any kind of time requirement before making it official with a person you’ve been dating. If you like them and you’re comfortable with it, do it!
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you’ve been dating someone for a week or two and you’re wondering when most couples have the exclusivity talk, don’t worry. Many long-term couples made it official after a few months of casual dating. [2]
    • It’s perfectly fine to pull the trigger earlier if you’re both on board, though. If you two have been friends for a while, or you’ve been casually hooking up, you already know each other well enough to make a decision ASAP. Don’t force yourselves to casually date if you’re both already on board with a relationship. [3]
    • If it has been more than 4-6 months, it may be a red flag. It’s worth discussing what’s going on if you want this to move forward. [4]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Every couple is different, but if you’ve gone on 3-4 dates and you’re worried that you aren’t official yet, don’t worry. Most couples go on 5-6 dates before they start discussing a relationship, and some take even longer. Don’t sweat it if you’re a few dates in. [5]
    • This lines up with the 1- to 3-month timeline for most folks. That’s 1 date every weekend on the fast side, and 1 date every 2-3 weeks or so on the longer side.
    • After 6 dates, you should start to form an impression of whether there’s anything here or not. If you still can’t tell, it’s okay to keep dating, but try to identify whether you want a relationship with this person or not. [6]
    4. Advertisement
Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: Am I Ready For A Relationship?

Relationships offer fun, comfort, and companionship, but how do you know when you’re ready to commit? By waiting until you’re truly ready, you’re allowing yourself to be the best partner possible. To find out if you’re finally ready for a relationship, take our quiz!
1 of 12

What do you look for in a partner?

Section 2 of 3:

Signs You’re Ready to Make the Relationship Official

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This signals that both of you are at least thinking about seeing where this can go, which is a huge sign you’re ready for a relationship . If this were just a quick fling, the two of you would never mention future plans, hopes, or dreams that involve the other person. [7]
    • This might include phrases like, “We should go to the beach next summer,” or, “Would you want to take a road trip in a few months?”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you’re enmeshed in one another’s social lives, it’s a major sign that the two of you are ready to make things official. People who are just causally dating don’t bring their flings around their friends, and the fact that you’re both comfortable with bringing them around is important. [8]
    • If your friends really like your significant other, it’s a good sign as well. They’d probably let you know if they thought you were making a huge mistake.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Conversation with a quick fling is usually superficial. If you two have discussed deeper values, painful memories, or important beliefs, it’s a signal that you’re developing a strong, emotional bond . If you want a fulfilling relationship, this is a sign you’re on the right path. [9]
    • If you’ve ever stayed up way past your bed time talking to them, or you get so lost in conversation
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If nobody is dealing with some unresolved feelings for an ex, neither of you are seriously dating any other partners, and there’s no trauma either of you are working through, you’re both ready to date. If there are any issues you two need to work through first, it’s best to let those wounds heal before starting a new relationship. [10]
    • Starting a relationship before you (or your partner) are emotionally ready for it can create issues early on. Don’t rush things if you aren’t ready.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The most important factor here is how you feel. If you enjoy spending time with the person you’ve been dated, you want to be in a relationship, and you envision a future together, the time is now. [11]
    • If you don’t feel like the time is right to commit, don’t. And don’t feel bad about that, either. Even if your date wants to make it official, you should be 100% on board with it.
    6. Advertisement
Section 3 of 3:

Having the “Official” Talk

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Doing this over the phone or via text can be rough, since you won’t be able to interpret their body language. Pick a time when you’re in a good place as a couple. [12]
    • You might do this after a good date , or while you’re both relaxing and cuddling on the couch.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Take a deep breath and ask them if you can talk. Then, ask them if it’s okay to discuss the nature of your relationship. Don’t worry—you already know they like you, so you have nothing to worry about. [13]
    • You could say, “Hey, I’d like to talk about our relationship, if that’s okay? Nothing bad, I promise! I just want to know where you see us going and if you’re interested in making it official.”
    • Alternatively, you can just come right out and say, “I’m sorry if this is a bit forward, but do you want to be my boyfriend/girlfriend?”
    • If you don’t feel comfortable having this conversation, it may be a sign that you aren’t quite ready to move on.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-11-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-11-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-11-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-11-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If they like you, you like them, and they’re interested in being an exclusive couple, define it just to make sure you both mean the same thing. This way, there’s no confusion regarding what you are. A lot of people don’t do this, but it’s important to make things clear. [14]
    • You might say, “So you’ll be my boyfriend/girlfriend?” or, “I’m going to be your boyfriend/girlfriend? It’s official?”
    • Make sure you’re exclusive by clarifying what a “relationship” means to you. You might ask, “I have no interest in dating anyone else. Do you feel the same way? I just want make sure we’re on the same page about not seeing other people.”
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-Should-You-Date-Before-Committing-to-a-Relationship-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If the “official” talk doesn’t go the way you want it to, take a deep breath. If you’re comfortable continuing to date and giving the relationship space to breathe, tell them. If you think you’re ready for something serious and this has run its course, say so. Whatever you choose to do, your decision is valid. [15]
    • If you’re okay to keep dating and you don’t mind waiting for them to meet you where you’re at, you might say, “That’s okay, I get it. I’m fine with keeping things casual if you are.”
    • If you really want to be exclusive and move things forward, you might say, “I understand how you feel, but I really think we’re looking for different things.”
    • It’s also okay to just say, “I need some time to think. I’m not angry or anything, but let me process how I feel.”
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Seduce Your Girlfriend
      How to Prove You Love Him Other Than Saying "I Love You": 21 Cute Ways
      14 Ways to Make Your Girlfriend Feel Like a True Princess
      How to
      Get Your Boyfriend to Stop Ignoring You
      How to
      Tell if He Really Loves You
      How to
      Make a Girl Happy
      How to
      Cheer up Your Girlfriend
      How to
      Turn a Girl Friend Into a Girlfriend
      How Long Does It Take to Go from Exclusive Dating to a Relationship?
      How to
      Avoid Bothering Your Busy Boyfriend
      Can 20-Year Age Gap Relationships Really Work?
      How to
      Form a Strong Bond in Your Relationship
      How to
      Treat Your Girlfriend
      How Soon Is Too Soon to Move In Together?
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/love-sex/relationships/a32877637/make-relationship-official/
      2. ↑ https://www.mic.com/life/are-couples-becoming-monogamous-too-fast-16340951
      3. ↑ Candice Mostisser. Relationship Coach. Expert Interview. 24 January 2020.
      4. ↑ https://www.bolde.com/why-he-wont-commit-even-though-dating-months/
      5. ↑ https://www.mic.com/life/are-couples-becoming-monogamous-too-fast-16340951
      6. ↑ Candice Mostisser. Relationship Coach. Expert Interview. 24 January 2020.
      7. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/8-signs-you-know-you-two-are-r
      8. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/8-signs-you-know-you-two-are-r
      9. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/8-signs-you-know-you-two-are-r
      1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/rediscovering-love/201602/10-questions-help-you-tell-if-youre-ready-commit
      2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/rediscovering-love/201602/10-questions-help-you-tell-if-youre-ready-commit
      3. ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/soloish/wp/2018/01/31/the-ultimate-guide-on-how-to-have-the-talk-with-the-person-youre-dating/
      4. ↑ Candice Mostisser. Relationship Coach. Expert Interview. 24 January 2020.
      5. ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/soloish/wp/2018/01/31/the-ultimate-guide-on-how-to-have-the-talk-with-the-person-youre-dating/
      6. ↑ https://emiko-tsunagari.medium.com/its-not-just-commitment-phobia-when-your-partner-doesn-t-want-to-make-things-official-94c669258919

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 507,796 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement