Canada is officially bilingual at the federal level, meaning that all federal government official documents, signs, and tourist information will be presented in French and English. Staff at retail shops, restaurants and tourist attractions will often speak English, especially in Montreal. Smaller establishments, especially outside Montreal, may not offer services in English but try their best to accommodate travellers. About 8% of the province's residents speak English as a mother tongue, and an additional 31% consider that they can get by speaking it. All offices of the federal government are required by law to provide services in French and English.

The official language of Quebec, however, is French. Provincial government signs (highway signs, government buildings, hospitals, etc.) are generally posted in French only. Services at provincial and municipal government offices are also often available in French only, though they are available in English in areas with significant Anglophone (English-speaking) populations. Tourist information is offered in English and other languages. The visibility of commercial signs and billboards in English and other languages is restricted by law (except for English-language media and cultural venues such as theatres, cinemas and bookstores). Most businesses will not have signs in English except in tourist areas and localities with a large English-speaking population. Language is a very sensitive subject politically, particularly in Montreal. If you cannot read a sign in a store or restaurant, most sales people will be sympathetic and help you find your way. Most restaurants in tourist areas will supply English menus if asked. In general, you should always begin the conversation in French, and ask if the person can speak English. Assuming that the person can speak English is considered to be very rude.

82% of Quebec’s population is francophone, but English is also commonly spoken, particularly in the province’s major cities such as Montreal where the percentage is 24%. For French-speaking people from elsewhere, the French spoken in Quebec is often difficult to understand. Books have been published on Quebec expressions, and these may be worth consulting if you are planning to stay in Québec for any length of time.