How to Install FiveM Scripts: The Complete Beginner's Guide
Master FiveM script installation with our step-by-step tutorial. From downloading to troubleshooting - everything you need to set up your server.
Installing FiveM scripts can seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, you'll have your server running custom mods in no time. Whether you're setting up a roleplay server, adding new jobs, or enhancing gameplay mechanics, this guide covers everything from the basics to advanced troubleshooting.
By the end of this tutorial, you'll understand how to install scripts for any major framework (ESX, QBCore, QBOX), troubleshoot common issues, and follow best practices that keep your server stable and secure.
Prerequisites
Before You Begin
What You'll Need:
- A working FiveM server (FXServer) running on Windows or Linux
- Access to your server's files (via FTP, SFTP, or direct file access)
- Basic understanding of your server's folder structure
- Database access (MySQL/MariaDB) for scripts requiring data storage
- Text editor (VS Code, Notepad++, or similar) for editing configuration files
Database Setup
Many scripts require a database connection. Most frameworks use oxmysql for database operations. Make sure you have MySQL or MariaDB installed and configured.
-- Example SQL import for ESX
CREATE DATABASE fivem_server;
USE fivem_server;
-- Import your framework SQL files
SOURCE es_extended.sql;
SOURCE essentialmode.sql;Understanding Script Types
Client-Side Scripts
These run on the player's computer and handle visual elements, UI, and client-side logic. Examples include HUDs, custom menus, and visual effects.
Server-Side Scripts
These run on the server and handle data persistence, security-sensitive operations, and game logic that needs to be authoritative. Examples include economy systems, inventory management, and job systems.
Shared Scripts
These contain code used by both client and server, typically configuration files and utility functions that both sides need.
MLOs & Maps
Map Loader Objects add custom interiors, buildings, and world modifications to the game. These are client-side resources that modify the game world.
Step-by-Step Installation
Locate Your Resources Folder
Navigate to your FiveM server's resources folder. This is where all scripts are stored. The default location varies by hosting provider or if you're self-hosting.
# Windows - Default path
C:FiveMserver
esources
# Linux - Default path
/home/fivem/server/resourcesDownload and Extract the Script
Download the script files and extract them into your resources folder. Make sure the folder name matches the script name (no spaces, special characters, or version numbers in the folder name).
Pro Tip
Add to server.cfg
Open your server.cfg file and add an 'ensure' or 'start' line for your new script. The order matters - dependencies must be loaded before the scripts that need them.
# Add to your server.cfg file
# Place after your framework (ESX/QBCore)
# Essential resources first
ensure oxmysql
ensure ox_lib
# Your new script
ensure my-awesome-script
# Alternative: use 'start' instead of 'ensure'
start my-awesome-scriptRestart Your Server
Restart your FiveM server to load the new script. You can also use console commands to reload resources without a full restart.
Useful Console Commands:
refresh- Reloads all resources without restartensure [script-name]- Starts a specific resourcerestart [script-name]- Restarts a running resourcestop [script-name]- Stops a running resource
Verify Installation
Check your server console for any errors. If the script loaded successfully, you should see a confirmation message. Test the functionality in-game to ensure everything works.
Success!
Framework-Specific Installation
Different frameworks have different requirements and loading orders. Here's how to install scripts for each major framework:
LegacyESX Installation
ESX is the legacy framework with extensive script support. Most ESX scripts require es_extended to be loaded first, followed by any dependencies.
# ESX server.cfg order example
ensure oxmysql
ensure es_extended
ensure esx_menu_default
ensure esx_menu_dialog
ensure esx_menu_list
# Your ESX scripts
ensure esx_policejob
ensure esx_mechanicjob
ensure my-custom-esx-scriptPopularQBCore Installation
QBCore is the most popular modern framework. It requires qb-core to be loaded before any QBCore-specific scripts. Many scripts also need qb-target for interactions.
# QBCore server.cfg order example
ensure oxmysql
ensure qb-core
ensure qb-target
# Your QBCore scripts
ensure qb-policejob
ensure qb-mechanicjob
ensure my-custom-qb-scriptModernQBOX Installation
QBOX is the newest framework with improved performance. It's compatible with many QBCore scripts but has its own core resource (qbx-core) that must be loaded first.
# QBOX server.cfg order example
ensure oxmysql
ensure qbx-core
ensure ox_lib
# Your QBOX scripts
ensure qbx-police
ensure my-custom-qbox-scriptNeed Help Choosing?
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Script Not Loading / 'Could Not Find' Error
This usually means the script folder name doesn't match what's in server.cfg, or the script is in the wrong location.
- Double-check the folder name matches exactly what's in server.cfg (case-sensitive)
- Ensure the script is directly in the resources folder, not in a subfolder
- Check that fxmanifest.lua or __resource.lua exists in the script folder
Dependency Errors
Many scripts require other resources to function. Common dependencies include oxmysql, ox_lib, and framework cores.
- Install all required dependencies listed in the script documentation
- Ensure dependencies are loaded BEFORE the script in server.cfg (place them higher in the file)
Database Connection Errors
Scripts that store data will fail if they can't connect to the database.
- Verify MySQL is running and accessible
- Check database credentials in your server configuration
Check the Server Console
Best Practices
Organize Your Resources
Keep your resources folder organized by creating subfolders for different types of scripts (e.g., [jobs], [vehicles], [maps]).
Backup Before Changes
Always backup your server.cfg and important scripts before making changes. This makes it easy to rollback if something breaks.
Mind the Loading Order
Framework cores and shared resources should be at the top of server.cfg. Scripts with no dependencies can be loaded later.
Test on a Development Server
Never install new scripts directly on your live server. Test them on a local or development server first to catch issues early.
Recommended Scripts to Start With
Here are some great scripts to get you started, ranging from free essentials to premium features:
Essential HUD
A clean, customizable HUD system that works with all major frameworks. Displays health, armor, hunger, thirst, and job information.
Advanced Police System
Complete police job system with dispatch, evidence, armory, and vehicle management. Supports all major frameworks.
Vehicle Fuel System
Realistic fuel system with gas stations, fuel consumption, and jerry cans. Lightweight and optimized for performance.
Complete Economy Pack
Full banking, shops, and business system with ATM network, customizable stores, and company management.
Want Everything Pre-Configured?
Save hours of setup time with our complete server templates. Everything installed, configured, and ready to run.
Browse Server TemplatesFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need coding knowledge to install scripts?
Can I use scripts from different frameworks together?
Why is my server crashing after installing a script?
How do I update a script without losing my configuration?
Where can I get help if I'm stuck?
Ready to Enhance Your Server?
Browse our collection of verified FiveM scripts. From free essentials to premium systems, find everything you need to create an amazing player experience.