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What is a SIM card and what does it do?

Your GSM device needs a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card to authorize your device on the Rogers Wireless GSM network. It's a tiny gold computer chip that contains your wireless subscriber profile to authorize a GSM device to use Rogers service such as making and receiving calls. The SIM card contains your customer number and your personal phone book.

You can insert your SIM card into another GSM device to make and receive calls on the Rogers Wireless GSM network without reprogramming the device.

Your SIM card is identified by a unique serial number (located on the back of the card). A SIM card has no expiry date. It is active as long as your service is active on the Rogers Wireless GSM network. Advancements and expansion to the Rogers Wireless network such as LTE will require compatible SIM cards which may lead to rare instances where SIM card replacements are necessary.

How can I activate my SIM card?

For a new line

Simply insert the SIM card into your device to get connected. Refer to your device’s user guide for instructions on inserting the SIM card. 

For an existing line 

Customers with a monthly Wireless plan

See our video and quick steps to learn how to activate your card online. 

Pay As You Go™ customers

Contact us or visit one of our stores to activate your SIM Card. 

If I don't have the old SIM card number, how can I activate my new SIM card?

If the old SIM card is still in your device, you can get the number in your device settings. See how to do this by visiting our Activate or change SIM card page and reviewing the Locate your SIM card number section. 

If you don’t have access to the old SIM card, visit one of our stores and we’ll be happy to help you. 

How much information does a SIM card contain?

The tiny SIM card's computer chip can hold up to 32K of information. That is roughly 250 contact entries, SIM card contacts only contain name and number fields.

How should I protect my SIM card?

Follow these tips to avoid damage to your SIM card and your card's memory:

  1. Turn off your device before inserting or removing the SIM card.
  2. Do not bend or scratch the card.
  3. Do not expose to static, electricity or magnetic fields.

What happens if my SIM card is lost or stolen?

  • The service should be immediately suspended to avoid unexpected usage charges.
  • The SIM card can be suspended through your MyRogers account on the website or by calling 1 888 764 3771.
  • A replacement SIM card can be obtained through the Rogers store.

Where can I purchase a Rogers SIM card?

You can purchase a Rogers SIM card at any of our stores

Can I call 9-1-1 without a SIM card?

Yes, you can call 9-1-1 at any time, with or without a SIM card.

Can I use my old device’s SIM card in my new device?

As long as both devices take the same size of SIM card, you can insert the same card into your new device.


If your new device takes a different-sized SIM card, you can purchase a new one at any of our stores.

Will my Rogers SIM card work while I’m abroad?

Absolutely! See what Wireless travel options are available to you while abroad.

How can I protect my SIM card from unauthorized use?

To protect your SIM card from unauthorized use, you can set up a PIN to be entered every time you restart your device or remove the SIM card.

To learn how to do this, see Set up a SIM card PIN on your phone

What happens if my Rogers SIM card is lost or stolen?

If you lose your SIM card and/or device, you can temporarily suspend your account in MyRogers to prevent unauthorized use.

To temporarily suspend your account:

  1. Sign in to MyRogers. 
  2. Select your Wireless plan. 
  3. Scroll down to Support and select Is your device lost or stolen?
  4. Select Switch off my services.
If you need a bit more help or would like a replacement SIM card, you can contact us.

How do I deactivate my Rogers SIM card?

If you need to deactivate your SIM card, you can contact us. Keep in mind that once a Rogers SIM card is deactivated it cannot be reactivated.

What do I do if my device displays an SIM card error message?

If you see an error message for your SIM card, make sure that it’s inserted properly by turning off your device, removing the card, re-inserting it, and turning your device back on. If you still see an error message, please contact us and we’ll be glad to help.