GTA 5 Mod Folder Structure - Best Organization Guide 2025

GTA 5 Mod Folder Structure Guide

Proper organization is key to successful GTA 5 modding. This guide shows the ideal folder structure and best practices.

The Mods Folder Concept

OpenIV introduced the mods folder system - keeping mod files separate from original game files. This makes mod management much easier.

Setting Up Mods Folder

  1. Open OpenIV
  2. Go to Tools > ASI Manager
  3. Install OpenIV.ASI
  4. Create mods folder in GTA 5 root directory

Ideal Folder Structure

Grand Theft Auto V/
├── GTA5.exe
├── dinput8.dll (ASI loader)
├── ScriptHookV.dll
├── ScriptHookVDotNet.asi
├── ScriptHookVDotNet2.dll
├── ScriptHookVDotNet3.dll
├── scripts/
│   ├── YourScripts.dll
│   └── configs/
├── mods/
│   ├── update/
│   │   ├── update.rpf
│   │   └── x64/
│   │       └── dlcpacks/
│   │           ├── vehicle1/
│   │           ├── vehicle2/
│   │           └── ...
│   ├── x64/
│   └── common.rpf
├── Plugins/
│   └── LSPDFR/
└── lspdfr/

Key Folders Explained

Root Folder:

  • .asi files (Script Hook V mods)
  • Core .dll files (Script Hook, SHVDN)
  • Configuration files (.ini)

scripts/:

  • ScriptHookVDotNet mods (.dll, .cs)
  • Mod configuration files

mods/:

  • Modified game archives (.rpf)
  • Add-on content
  • Texture replacements

Plugins/LSPDFR/:

  • LSPDFR specific plugins
  • Rage Plugin Hook mods

dlclist.xml Management

Location: mods/update/update.rpf/common/data/dlclist.xml

Add entries for each add-on:

<Item>dlcpacks:/vehiclename/</Item>

Organization Tips

  • Name folders clearly - Use mod names
  • Keep backups - Copy working configs
  • Document changes - Note what you installed
  • Separate categories - Vehicles, peds, maps
  • Use subfolders - Organize by type

Common Mistakes

  • Putting files in wrong location
  • Forgetting to update dlclist.xml
  • Mixing mods folder and direct installation
  • Not using Edit Mode in OpenIV

Conclusion

Good organization saves time and prevents issues. Set up properly from the start!