I took up the pipes later in life (just shy of 50). I've been taking lessons for 6 years, been on the pipes for 5. Your instructor should start you out with a practice chanter. Basically its a version of the pipe chanter with a mouthpiece . That's what you'll learn the basics on, and you'll use it as long as you're piping for practicing and learning new tunes. It'll be a while before you're ready for the pipes. How long varies with the individual. Follow your instructor's lead on that. Also, be warned that the "bargain" pipes you see on e-bay and in some music shops are generally made in Pakistan. Pakistan produces good blades, and some very fine embroidery work, but the pipes leave much to be desired. I speak from experience. The first set I bought was through an ad in a local paper. Paid $185, thought I had a real bargain. My instructor asked "What ever posessed you to buy Pakistani pipes?" Who knew Pakistanis made pipes? I had to put another couple of hundred dollars into them to make them playable, and the sound quality still wasn't there. A good set of pipes can be had these days for from $700 - $1000. Of course, the sky's the limit, pricewise, depending on exactly what you want. I chose a set of Dunbar P3's. They're made of Delrin, rather than African Blackwood (with 11 grandkids I was looking for something bulletproof), but they get good comments as far as sound and appearance go. Most good pipers with admit they can't tell the difference is sound between a well set up poly pipe and a well set up blackwood pipe. Set up is something else you'll need your instructor's assistance with.
I took up the pipes for my own enjoyment, I don't play in a band (tell folks I play for my enjoyment and the neighbor's annoyance), but I truly enjoy it. Have fun.