Find a website that provides bagpipe instruction. Make sure that your selection provides different learning formats; these could include Skype webcam lessons, downloadable material, online tutorials and videos and long distance lessons by recording. Some of these websites will require payment and prices depend upon the lesson format that you choose. There are sites that don't require payment, but you must ensure that they provide all of the material that you need. A good free resource of bagpipe lessons can be found at Andrew Lenz's Bagpipe Journey (see References).
Purchase a practice chanter or bagpipe. A set of bagpipes can be expensive and may need to be ordered from a specialist, whereas a practice chanter is similar to a recorder and is all you need to be able to learn the notes. Practice chanters are available at most music stores and are the best option if you are unsure of your resolution to play the bagpipes.
Spend time reading the information on the website of your chosen bagpipe instructor. Read about their background and experience in bagpipe playing, how they were taught and by whom, which bagpipes the instructor plays and their performing experience. Some instructors will have an album that showcases their work. Listening to this will give you a good idea of the style and ability of your instructor as well as their personality. It is easier to learn from a person that you get along with; find out as much as you can about them so that you're comfortable learning from them.
Begin your bagpipe lessons online. You will be able to work at your own pace and revisit any lessons that you may not be completely sure of before moving on. Read through the available information on your instructor's website and contact them if there is information missing that you need. Always ensure you are comfortable with what you have learned in each lesson, as moving to the next lesson prematurely could cause confusion.