Can you play grand theft auto online without completing story mode?

Grand Theft Auto Online functions as a separate multiplayer mode within Grand Theft Auto V. While the base game includes a single-player story mode, Online operates independently once the main game is installed. Players can access Online directly from the main menu without finishing the story campaign. The game's design allows users to transition between modes freely, meaning story progression is not a prerequisite for playing Online. This structure is typical for Rockstar's approach to integrating online components alongside single-player experiences.