How to Install a FiveM HUD Script
Step-by-step setup for QBCore, ESX, and QBox servers.
- 1
Download and extract the HUD resource
Place the HUD folder (e.g., cd_hud or qb-hud) inside your server's resources/ directory. Do not rename the folder unless the resource manifest specifies otherwise.
- 2
Add to server.cfg
Open server.cfg and add "ensure [hud-name]" after your framework ensure line (qb-core or es_extended). The HUD must load after the framework so it can read player data from the shared object.
- 3
Set your framework in config
Open the HUD's config.lua or config.js and set Config.Framework = "qbcore", "esx", or "qbox". Toggle which status bars your server uses (hunger, thirst, stress are optional). Some HUDs also let you set ox_lib as the notification system.
- 4
Remove any existing HUD
If you are replacing another HUD, delete its ensure line from server.cfg and remove the resource folder entirely. Running two HUDs simultaneously causes element duplication and display conflicts.
- 5
Restart and test in-game
Restart the server and join. Check F8 for errors. Common issues: status bars showing 0 (wrong framework setting or missing exports), HUD not appearing (ensure order problem), or GTA's native HUD still showing (the HUD needs to call DisableHUD natives on client start).
Choosing the Right HUD: ESX vs QBCore vs QBox
HUD compatibility and feature availability differ by framework. Here is what to expect.
QBCore
- •qb-hud ships with QBCore (free baseline)
- •Reads data via QBCore.Functions.GetPlayerData()
- •Large selection of premium & free HUD options
- •Best third-party HUD ecosystem in 2026
ESX
- •esx_hud is the common free option
- •Reads data via ESX.GetPlayerData()
- •Many premium HUDs support ESX via config switch
- •Verify ESX Legacy vs ESX 1.x compatibility
QBox
- •QBox exports differ from QBCore
- •Fewer HUDs list explicit QBox support
- •Check product page for QBox — not just QBCore
- •Growing support as QBox adoption increases
