An instance of Grand Theft Auto V is already running error
Last Updated: February 3, 2026
Question: What can I do about the following error code when trying to launch Grand Theft Auto V on PC?
An instance of Grand Theft Auto V Legacy is already running. Please allow the game to fully exit before attempting to play again. If you believe you are seeing this message in error, please check the task manager for any running instances of the game or try rebooting your computer. If you continue to see this message, please contact https://support.rockstargames.com/ for more information.
Answer: This error can occur if you are trying to run GTAV on more than one launcher, if the game process is still running and you attempt to launch it again, or if the game or launcher files are not running with administrator privileges.
Restarting your computer will make sure you only have one copy of GTAV running.
If that does not resolve the issue, follow the steps below to launch the game as an administrator.
Rockstar Games Launcher
Right-click the Rockstar Games Launcher shortcut or .exe file
Select Properties
Select Compatibility
Select Change settings for all users
Select Run this program as an administrator
Select OK
Epic Games Launcher
Right-click on the Epic Games Launcher shortcut or .exe file
Select Properties
Select the Compatibility tab
Check the box next to Run this program as an administrator
Select Apply
Select OK
Steam
Right-click on the Steam shortcut or .exe file
Select Properties
Select the Compatibility tab
Check the box next to Run this program as an administrator
Select Apply
Select OK