Rockstar Activation Code already in use error for Grand Theft Auto V on Steam

Last Updated: October 3, 2024

Question: What can I do about the following error when trying to launch GTAV on Steam? 

  • Rockstar Activation Code already in use 

Answer: This error can be caused by a corrupt local profile associated with your Rockstar Games account or by launching the game with limited permissions. To resolve this, follow the steps below: 

Delete the Rockstar Games Launcher local profile 

  1. Start the Rockstar Games Launcher 

  2. Go to Settings 

  3. Go to Account Information 

  4. Select Delete local profile 

Important: The above steps will delete the profile details stored on your computer and require that you sign in to your Rockstar Games account again via the Rockstar Games Launcher. This will not delete your Rockstar Games account or any saved games, and your local profile details will be recovered when you sign in to your account. 

Set Steam to launch as an administrator 

  1. Right-click on the Steam icon on your desktop or open your Steam folder and right-click the Steam.exe file 

  2. Select Properties 

  3. Select the Compatibility tab 

  4. Check the box next to Run this program as an administrator 

  5. Select Apply 

  6. Select OK 

Set GTAV to launch as an administrator 

  1. Launch Steam 

  2. Open your Library 

  3. Right-click on Grand Theft Auto V 

  4. Select Properties 

  5. Select Installed Files 

  6. Select Browse 

  7. Right-click on GTAV.exe file 

  8. Select Properties 

  9. Select the Compatibility tab 

  10. Check the box next to Run this program as an administrator 

  11. Select Apply 

  12. Select OK 

Verify the integrity of your game files 

  1. Right-click the game in your Steam Library 

  2. Select Properties 

  3. Select the Local Files tab 

  4. Select the Verify integrity of game files button

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