How to Switch Characters in GTA 5 (PC, Xbox, PS5 & Online)

Learn how to switch characters in GTA 5 on PC, Xbox, PS5, and GTA Online. Easily swap between Michael, Franklin, Trevor, and online avatars with this quick guide.

One of the coolest and most unique features in GTA 5 is the ability to switch between three main characters—Michael, Franklin, and Trevor—each with their own skills, backstories, and special abilities. It was a game-changing mechanic back when it launched, and fans are hoping we’ll see it again in GTA 6.

If you’re just getting started or need a quick refresher, here’s how to switch characters in GTA 5 on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and even in GTA Online.

Related: GTA 6 Could Arrive on PC in Early 2026, Says Gaming Company

️ How to Switch Characters in GTA 5 on PC

Switching characters on PC is super simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Hold the Alt key on your keyboard while in-game.
   
2. A character wheel will pop up in the bottom right corner, showing each character and their stats.
   
3. Move your mouse cursor over the character you want to switch to OR use the arrow keys to highlight them.
   
4. Release the Alt key to confirm your choice.
   

The game will zoom out to a cinematic city view, then zoom back in on your selected character. Depending on your PC specs, the switch can happen super fast. And of course, the animation often shows the character mid-action—Trevor’s random antics never disappoint!

Read: What is JP in GTA Online? How to Earn & Use Job Points

How to Switch Characters on Xbox and PS5

On consoles, the steps are just as easy:

1. Hold down on the D-Pad while playing.
   
2. Use the right stick to highlight the character you want.
   
3. Release the D-Pad to switch.
   

Same as on PC, you’ll see the zoom-out, then a cinematic cutscene showing what your chosen character was doing.

Bonus Tip: You can also jump into Director Mode to control NPCs and other wild characters. Just press:

• ‘M’ on PC
  
• Touchpad on PlayStation
  
• View button on Xbox
  

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How to Switch Characters in GTA Online

Switching characters in GTA Online works a bit differently.

If you want to jump from story mode to your online character:

1. Hold the character wheel key (Alt on PC or down on D-Pad).
   
2. Your GTA Online character is located at the bottom of the wheel.
   

But if you want to switch between different online characters (or create a new one):

1. Open the pause menu.
   
2. Go to the Online tab.
   
3. Select Swap Characters.
   

From there, the game will load into the character selection screen where you can pick an existing online character or create a new one.

⚠️ Heads-up: You can’t switch characters if you’re currently in a mission or if you’ve got wanted stars.

And that’s it! Now you know exactly how to switch characters in GTA 5 across all platforms. Whether you’re in the mood for Michael’s calm and calculated vibe, Franklin’s smooth driving, or Trevor’s chaotic madness, swapping between them keeps the game feeling fresh.

So… which character’s switch cutscene cracks you up the most? Let us know!

LS Tags Locations for GTA Online (January 25, 2025)
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