The most thrilling part of GTA 5 is heists that make one graduate beyond the lesser crimes and venture into the world of grand robberies that are accompanied by huge amounts of money. You strategize, gear up and steal large operations with a crew – in Story Mode or GTA Online. If you are a new player and you have no idea on how to begin your first heist in GTA 5, we will guide you through all the details, step by step in a simple language that you can clearly comprehend.
What Are Heists in GTA 5?
GTA 5 Heists are multi-stage missions where you and your crew perform complex robberies. They usually involve planning, completing setup missions, and then executing the main job – which gives you huge payouts. Each heist feels like a mini movie with choices that affect how the story unfolds. You’ll decide how to approach the mission (stealth or action), pick your crew, and make key decisions that determine your reward and success.
Heists are available in:
GTA 5 Story Mode: You play as Michael, Franklin, or Trevor.
GTA Online: You team up with real players to complete cooperative heists.
How to Start a Heist in GTA 5 Story Mode
In the story mode, heists can be unlocked by just continuing to play through the main narrative. You will not be able to reach them at the very first moment – you will have to see some characters and accomplish some missions first.
Step 1: Progress Through the Main Story Missions
Complete the first several missions until you get to know Lester Crest, a professional hacker and strategist. It is he who gets you into the idea of big heists.
You will be allowed your first major heist, The Jewel Store Job once you have met him.
Step 2: Meet Lester and Unlock the First Heist
He will take you through the way heists are done after meeting Lester. You will begin by selecting your approach strategy either stealth (quiet and clean) or loud (guns blazing).
You will also select your crew members in various positions such as the driver, gunman and hacker. All the crew members get a portion of your profits, and their competence will influence the ease at which the heist will be carried out.
Step 3: Finish The Missions of the Setup
You will have to complete a number of minor setup missions before you can do the actual heist. These are planning activities that ensure that you have the correct gears and vehicles.
Common setup missions are:
- Robbing or purchasing getaway cars.
- Taking masks, weapons, and tools.
- Collecting intelligence of the target site.
These arrangements can work against the final heist in case of skipping or spoiling them hence must be taken seriously.
Step 4: Start the Heist from the Planning Board
After doing all the setup missions, visit the planning board in your safe house or hide out. There, verify your plan, assess your crew choice and begin the heist.
You will have to follow the plan, alternate between characters (where necessary), as well as make fast decisions, during the mission. The smoother you play the more you will be paid.
Step 5: Escape and Collect Your Reward
Once the primary task is complete, you will have to evade the police and get to the drop-off area in a safe manner. As you have been able to do, you will have your part of the loot.
You have just finished your first heist in the GTA 5 Story Mode.
Also Read: How to Make Money Fast in GTA 5: Top Methods
How to Start a Heist in GTA Online
GTA Online heists are a little more complicated, in that you will not have AI teammates, but other real people. You also have to establish your apartment and staff.
Step 1: Reach Rank 12
Before you can become a host, or even join, a heist, you must have obtained Rank 12 in GTA Online.
In the case you are lower than that, finish normal missions, races, or other activities to rise in rank.
Step 2: Buy a Luxury Apartment
The requirements to host heists include an expensive apartment that will include a planning board. You are able to purchase one at the Dynasty 8 Real Estate site through your in-game phone.
Apartments in locations like Del Perro Heights or Eclipse Towers are popular choices. The planning board in your apartment is where all your heist setups and finales are managed.
Step 3: Receive a Call from Lester
After buying a high-end apartment and reaching Rank 12, Lester will contact you. He’ll invite you to host your first heist – The Fleeca Job.
This is a simple two-player heist designed to teach you the basics. You’ll rob a small bank with one partner, and Lester will walk you through every step.
Step 4: Complete the Setup Missions
Each heist in GTA Online includes several setup missions that must be completed before the final job. These can include stealing vehicles, collecting keycards, or gathering weapons and equipment. The host of the heist pays the setup cost, while everyone else helps complete the tasks.
Step 5: Start the Heist Finale
After all the arrangements have been completed, return to your planning board and begin the Heist Finale. It is the big robbery operation, and coordination and teamwork play a critical role.
Every player can play a particular role (driver, gunman, hacker, etc.), so communication is significant. Each person gets an equal portion of the total amount of the heist after doing it – the percentage is determined by the host at hand during the mission.
Also Read: GTA 5 Hidden Money Locations: Best Spots to Get Easy Cash
Tips for a Successful Heist
- Talk to your crew: Good communication will either make or break a heist. Co-ordination via voice chat or text.
- Prepare your weapons and armor: Before starting any heist, stock up on ammo, body armor, and snacks.
- Avoid unnecessary risks: Take cover during gunfights and don’t rush into enemies.
- Choose reliable teammates: For online heists, play with friends or experienced players to avoid random chaos.
- Distribute money fairly: If you’re hosting, give your team fair payouts so they’re motivated to join you again.
Final Thoughts
One of the most rewarding things in GTA 5 is starting a heist, which may appear tricky to start with until you master the rules, then it will be a satisfying experience. Each heist is special due to a combination of planning, teamwork, and action.
Story Mode: Work through the missions, and get to know Lester.
GTA Online: Buy a nice apartment, find a reliable crew, and be able to talk.
You will be addicted to it as soon as you finish the first heist. You will not only win at a massive reward, but you will also get the most filmic and exciting moments that GTA 5 has to offer.
FAQs
What are the requirements of executing heist?
You have to be Rank 12 or more, and you have to have a high-end apartment with a planning board. After that, Lester will pick you up and begin your first heist, The Fleeca Job.
How can you get into heists when you do not even have an apartment?
Quick Join > Heists will allow you to join a heist by other players or receive an invitation on your phone. Money and property are not required to do this.
Why do not all the players see the Lester call?
You might not fit all the requirements – verify whether you are Rank 12 and have a high-end apartment. In case you do, then change sessions or restart the game.
What are the simplest heist as a beginner?
The Fleeca Job is the easiest. It is a two-player, brief bank robbery that teaches the fundamentals of driving, hacking and cooperation.
What are the differences in requirements in advanced heists?
Elite heists like the Doomsday, Casino or Cayo Perico heists have varied property and rank requirements.
- Doomsday Heist needs a basement Facility.
- Casino Heist requires an Arcade business.
- Cayo Perico Heist requires a Kosatka Submarine in the Warstock Cache and Carry store.
Experienced players are targeted by these heists, which have more payouts but more elaborate setup and preparation than the usual apartment heists.
