How to Use FiveM Mods: Complete Installation Guide

Installing mods is what transforms a basic FiveM server into a unique, immersive experience. Whether you are adding custom scripts, MLO interiors, vehicles, or EUP clothing packs, the process follows a consistent pattern. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Basic Mod Installation

Every FiveM mod, regardless of type, follows the same basic installation process:

Step 1: Download the mod. Obtain the resource from a trusted source. Most mods come as .zip or .rar archives. Extract them to a folder.

Step 2: Place the folder in resources. Move the extracted folder into your server's resources/ directory. The folder name matters — it must match what you write in your server configuration.

Step 3: Add to server.cfg. Open your server.cfg file and add one of these lines:

ensure mod_folder_name

Or for more control with startup order:

start mod_folder_name

Step 4: Restart the server. Use txAdmin to restart, or run restart mod_folder_name in the server console for just that resource.

Installing Scripts

Scripts are the most common mod type. They add gameplay functionality: jobs, inventory systems, HUDs, police systems, and more. Script-specific considerations:

• Check dependencies. Many scripts require ox_lib, oxmysql, or specific framework resources. Install dependencies first.
• Database setup. SQL-based scripts include an .sql file. Run it against your database before starting the script.
• Configuration. Most scripts include a config.lua file. Review and customize settings before deploying.
• Framework detection. Scripts may auto-detect ESX, QBCore, or QBox. Ensure your framework is running before starting the script.

Installing MLOs (Map Mods)

MLOs add custom interiors to existing buildings or create entirely new locations:

• Place the MLO folder in resources/ and ensure it in server.cfg
• MLOs should start after your framework but before scripts that depend on them
• Some MLOs require specific game build versions — check compatibility
• Conflict with other MLOs at the same coordinates is a common issue. Use a coordinate checker tool to verify

Installing Vehicles

Custom vehicles use the addon or replace method:

• Addon vehicles: Create a new vehicle without replacing existing ones. Place in resources, ensure proper data files (vehicles.meta, carvariations.meta, handling.meta), and configure in the resource manifest.
• Replace vehicles: Overwrite existing GTA V vehicles. Less common due to compatibility issues. Not recommended for servers with many custom vehicles.

Installing EUP (Clothing)

Emergency Uniform Packs and custom clothing follow a specific process:

• EUP packs go in a dedicated eup-stream or similar folder
• Clothing must be streamed using the appropriate resource method
• Some EUP requires fivem-appearance or illenium-appearance as a dependency

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Resource fails to start. Check the server console for error messages. Missing dependencies, syntax errors in config files, or incorrect folder names are the most common causes.

Mod loads but doesn't work in-game. Verify you have the correct permissions (admin/ACE permissions). Some scripts require you to add yourself to a whitelist.

Server crashes on startup. One of your mods is conflicting with another. Disable recently added mods one by one to identify the problem resource.

Players can't see the mod. For client-side mods like MLOs and vehicles, ensure the resource is set to start and players have joined after the resource was initialized.

The key to smooth mod management is testing. Always test new mods on a development server before deploying to your live community.