FiveM is a free multiplayer modification for GTA V on PC. It lets you join community servers with their own rules, jobs, cars and stories, and it is the technology behind most GTA roleplay. Below are the answers to the questions we see most often. Checked October 30, 2026.
Key takeaways
- FiveM needs a legitimate PC copy of GTA V. It does not replace it.
- Servers are run by communities, so rules, quality and language differ a lot.
- Rockstar bought Cfx.re, the team behind FiveM and RedM, in August 2023, and the project continues.
Getting started
What do I need to play? A PC, GTA V from Steam, Epic or the Rockstar launcher, and the free FiveM client. A microphone helps because most roleplay is spoken. How do I pick a first server? Start with a beginner-friendly community with a clear rules page and an active Discord; the server picking guide shows the checklist and the live list shows where people are right now.
Safety and rules
Is FiveM safe? The official client is widely used and does not harm your computer, but you should only download it from the official site. Can I get banned in GTA Online for using FiveM? FiveM runs separately from GTA Online and does not connect to Rockstar's online servers, but you should not mix them. Can servers ban me? Yes. Each server has its own rules and staff and can ban you for breaking them; see rules and bans explained.
Servers, whitelists and mods
What is a whitelist? A gate where staff approve players, usually after an application on Discord. Are custom cars and maps allowed? Servers load their own resources, so cars, maps and scripts differ by server; you download them automatically when you connect. What are ESX, QBCore and Qbox? They are popular server frameworks that handle jobs, inventory and money. Players rarely need to know them, but the glossary explains the terms.
About Rockstar, GTA VI and the future
Is FiveM official? It is maintained by Cfx.re, which Rockstar's parent company acquired in 2023. Will FiveM work with GTA VI? No version has been announced; see our GTA VI hub and the article about GTA VI and RP communities.
RedM and other games
RedM is the same idea for Red Dead Redemption 2. Read how to play RedM to start. If you prefer shooters, browse CS2 community servers.
Practice on live GTA V servers
Put this into practice. These community servers are online right now, sorted by players. See the full list on the GTA V server list, or browse servers by tag.
