Free Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems for FiveM typically offer core features like real-time emergency tracking, citizen/vehicle databases, and officer status management. While some platforms operate on a "freemium" model with limited advanced tools, others are entirely open-source and community-driven. Top Free FiveM CAD Systems
SnailyCAD: Widely considered one of the best free options, it is a fully open-source, self-hosted system.
Features: Real-time syncing for calls and status updates, high customization, multi-language support, and integration for Discord and FiveM scripts.
Sonoran CAD (Free Version): A popular cloud-based system that offers a basic free tier.
Features: Supports up to 35 user accounts and includes a basic integrated live map and 10 custom record templates.
Limitation: The official FiveM in-game integration plugin generally requires a paid subscription level (Plus or higher).
OpenCAD: A long-standing community-driven project designed specifically for FiveM immersion.
Features: Includes civilian modules for creating identities and registering vehicles, alongside dedicated officer and dispatcher panels. Common Features in Free CADs Pricing - Sonoran CAD
Searching for a high-quality, free Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for your FiveM server
can be a game-changer for roleplay realism. Whether you’re running a small community or a growing public server, these tools help manage emergency services calls, police records, and civilian profiles without the monthly subscription costs. Top Free FiveM CAD Systems : Widely considered one of the best free options,
is an open-source, web-based CAD/MDT system. It features a modern interface, deep customization, and an active developer who frequently adds community-requested features. Sonoran CAD (Free Version) : While it has paid tiers, Sonoran CAD
offers a robust free version that is highly popular due to its extensive FiveM in-game integration capabilities. Bubble CADs : Many developers use the
platform to create free "community-made" CADs. These are often shared on the Cfx.re Forum Releases section Sample Post Template
If you are looking to share or promote a free CAD system you’ve found or built, you can use this template for Discord or the FiveM forums: fivem cad system free
Title: [FREE] [Release] [Your CAD Name] - A Modern CAD/MDT for FiveM Hey everyone!
I’m excited to share a free CAD/MDT system perfect for FiveM communities looking to level up their roleplay. This system is designed to be user-friendly for dispatchers, LEO, EMS, and civilians alike. Key Features: Civilian Dashboard: Create characters, register vehicles, and track licenses. Run plates, check names, and issue citations or arrests. Dispatch Panel: Live emergency services call queue and unit management. Web-Based: No complex in-game installs required for the UI. Why choose this?
Many CADs lock essential features behind a paywall. This version is completely free to help growing servers get off the ground with professional tools. Check it out here: [Link to your CAD or GitHub] Join our Support Discord: [Link to Discord] Next Steps: technical guide
on how to install one of these systems, or are you looking for a comparison of their specific features? SnailyCAD - The Free and open-source CAD/MDT for FiveM
Here’s a concise review of free FiveM CAD (Computer-Aided Dispatch) systems—features, pros/cons, best picks, and recommendation.
Summary
What to expect (common features)
Pros of free CADs
Cons / limitations
Notable free/open-source CADs (short list)
How to choose (practical checklist)
Quick recommended next steps
If you want, I can:
Which would you prefer?
A modern, open-source, and constantly updated CAD/MDT system. It is self-hosted, meaning you have complete control over the data, and features real-time updates for calls, officer status, and civilian records. Sonoran CAD (Free Tier):
Known as one of the most advanced, integrated systems. While premium features cost money, the free tier is extremely capable, offering in-game integration, Discord integration, and app access. Community CAD
A free, user-friendly CAD/MDT system often used for Police, Fire/EMS, and Civilian roleplay. Lines Police CAD
Offers a free base plan that is quite extensive, which can be applied to your community to enhance your server’s capabilities. GitHub Open-Source CADs Various developers offer free scripts on GitHub, such as AndyRixon/FiveM-CAD
, which are simpler and often just require web hosting (PHP). 2. Deep Dive: SnailyCAD Installation Guide (Self-Hosted)
SnailyCAD is the preferred free solution for many due to its modern stack (React/Node.js) and active development. Prerequisites
A VPS or server to host the CAD (e.g., Oracle Cloud Free Tier, DigitalOcean). Docker and Docker Compose installed. Basic knowledge of Linux commands. Prepare the Server: Log into your VPS and ensure Docker is installed. Clone SnailyCAD: to get the latest version from the SnailyCAD GitHub Configure Environment: .env.example
and fill in the database credentials, API keys, and Discord OAuth settings. Run Docker: docker-compose up -d to launch the CAD, database, and API services. Initial Setup:
Access the IP address of your server in a web browser to complete the initial setup wizard. Create Community: Set up your departments, units, and vehicle databases. 3. Deep Dive: Sonoran CAD Integration (Cloud-Based)
Sonoran CAD is easier to set up but is a "hybrid" system (cloud-hosted with in-game plugins). Create Community: Sign up at Sonorancad.com Download Plugin: Download the Sonoran CAD plugin from their website or FiveM forum Install on Server: sonorancad folder into your FiveM server directory. Configure API:
Create an API key in the Sonoran CAD admin panel and add it to the config.json inside the resource folder. server.cfg ensure sonorancad server.cfg ### 4. Key Components of a Free CAD System Database Sync:
Real-time data storage for registered vehicles, weapons, and citizen identities. In-Game MDT: A tablet or screen within the game (activated via ) that allows officers to create records. Dispatch System: What to expect (common features)
A dashboard for dispatchers to manage, view, and assign emergency services calls to officers in real time. Discord Integration:
Allowing users to log in using Discord and assigning CAD roles based on Discord permissions. Panic Button/Status:
Features that allow officers to mark themselves on-duty, off-duty, busy, or in a panic situation. 5. Best Practices & Optimization Use Docker:
For self-hosted systems, Docker ensures all dependencies are met without breaking the host operating system. Regular Backups:
Even with free systems, ensure you are backing up the database weekly to prevent data loss. Mobile Friendly:
Choose a CAD (like SnailyCAD or Sonoran) that is responsive, allowing officers to use tablets or phones for dispatch. Integration over Standalone:
Use a CAD that connects with your specific framework (ESX, QB-Core, or vMenu) to sync in-game money, inventory, and player data.
Disclaimer: Some features in "free" systems may have limitations on the number of users or storage space. Sonoran CAD: FiveM Resource Installation Tutorial
Go to your chosen CAD provider. Create a "Community" or "Development" server (free tier).
Not all free systems are created equal. Some are glorified note-taking apps, while others rival paid competitors. When searching for a free FiveM CAD system, you must prioritize these five features:
If you want the closest experience to the paid giants without the price tag, this is it. SnailyCAD is arguably the most popular open-source CAD in the community right now.
Rico tightened his headset and watched the rain streak the neon across the skyline of Los Santos. The server had been alive for weeks now, populated by players who loved the small details: realistic callouts, accurate vehicle plates, the satisfying click of a dispatch console when a new run lit up the map. What made everything hum wasn’t a polished police plugin or a paid enterprise: it was the free FiveM CAD system someone in the community had put together and shared.
Not all free CADs are created equal. Some are "freemium" (free for 5 users, then paid), while others are truly free and open-source. Here are the heavy hitters. accurate vehicle plates