Getting Started with FiveM CAD: A Server Owner's First Steps

Taking the leap from running a FiveM server with no CAD to deploying a professional Computer Aided Dispatch system is simpler than most server owners think. If you've been managing 911 calls through Discord channels, tracking warrants in spreadsheets, or asking officers to "/me runs plate" in chat - you're about to discover a better way. This FiveM CAD tutorial walks you through every step, from choosing a system to going live with your community.

Before You Begin

What You'll Need

Helpful to Have Ready

Step 1: Choose Your CAD System

Not all FiveM CAD systems are created equal. When evaluating your options, look for a system that offers real-time dispatch, a full MDT interface, civilian registration, Discord integration, and active development. You want something that grows with your server - not something you'll outgrow in a month.

For a detailed breakdown of what to look for, check out our Best FiveM CAD System comparison. We recommend CDE CAD for its comprehensive feature set - dispatch console, MDT, civilian portal, penal code management, Discord OAuth, and multi-community support - all in one platform with no self-hosting headaches.

Step 2: Set Up Your CAD

Once you've chosen CDE CAD, getting your instance up and running is straightforward. Here's the process:

Step 3: Configure Departments

Your departments are the backbone of your CAD. This is where you define who does what and how your emergency services are organized.

Step 4: Set Up Your Penal Code

Your penal code is the legal framework that officers use when writing citations, filing charges, and processing arrests. A well-organized penal code makes officer workflows faster and keeps your server's legal system consistent.

Step 5: Onboard Your Staff

With your departments and penal code configured, it's time to bring your officers and dispatchers into the system. A smooth onboarding experience sets the tone for how your team will feel about the new CAD.

Step 6: Open the Civilian Portal

The civilian portal is where your community members create the characters and vehicles that populate your CAD's database. Without civilian data, officers have nothing to look up.

Step 7: Go Live

You've configured everything, tested the workflows, and your staff knows how to use it. It's time to announce your CAD to the full community.

"The difference between a good launch and a rough one usually comes down to giving your community a few days to get familiar before making the CAD mandatory."

Common First-Week Issues

Every server hits a few bumps during the first week with a new CAD. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them fast:

Ready to Get Started?

You've read the tutorial - now it's time to set up your own FiveM CAD system. CDE CAD is fully hosted, feature-complete, and ready to go in minutes.

Questions? Our support team is here to help with every step.