How to Install Mods in GTA 6 (Step by Step)

Installing mods in GTA 6 takes five steps: back up your files, install Rage Script Hook, install OpenIV, place the mod files, and verify the install. The full landing page at How to Install GTA 6 Mods walks every mod type with exact paths.

1. Back up your game folder

Always back up your game folder before installing your first mod. Mod conflicts or corrupted installs can brick the game - a backup saves you hours of reinstalling. Copy the entire GTA 6 install directory to a separate location before touching anything.

2. Install the prerequisites

Most mods need at least one of two tools: Rage Script Hook (loads C# / Lua scripts into the running game) and OpenIV (browses and edits RPF archives). Both are free and live in the Tools category. If you plan to stack heavy mod packs, also grab HeapAdjuster 600 - it extends the memory heap so the game stops OOM-crashing on load.

3. Drop the files in the right place

For script mods, drop the .asi and .dll files directly into your GTA 6 install root - not a subfolder. For texture mods and vehicle replacements, use OpenIV's *Edit Mode* to swap files inside the RPF archives. Add-on vehicles need a dlclist.xml entry - see the vehicle install walkthrough for the exact path.

4. Stay offline the first time

Launch GTA 6 offline the first time after installing a mod. Never load custom mods while connected to GTA Online - it triggers Rockstar's anti-cheat and results in an account ban. The full policy lives on Is GTA 6 modding legal?.

Stuck?

If something breaks, work through Fixing Common Modding Issues first. Still stuck? Post in the Installation Help forum or hit the Support center - the long tail of edge cases is well documented.