There should be a local motorcycle course your DMV offers. They're maybe a few hundred (or less) and they provide the bike. You just wear jeans and long sleeve tshirts (I recommend doing this course in the fall or winter) but when you complete the weekend course and the test, you have a license to ride. At least, that's how it was at my local DMV back in Georgia (USA). Both my parents did it.
As far as riding goes (a lot of my friends all ride, plus my folks), equipment equipment equipment. Wear the pants, wear the jacket, wear the helmet. Regardless of weather, wear it. They make suits that have removable pads and stuff for the summer and/or with vents so that way you're not cooking while you're moving. The only time you'll be hot is when you're standing still. Just like a convertible.
But don't cheap out on your equipment. Expect to spend around a $1000 on your equipment. From there it depends on what kind of bike you want. Obviously, starting with a liter bike is NOT a good idea. If you do a course, you'll probably do it on something like a 250 or 300. Start with what you learn on. Those bikes are cheap and easy to maintain and great on gas mileage. Plus, if you drop it, at least it won't be an expensive bike and it won't be a huge loss (if you drop it HARD).
Also, join a motorcycle forum for the type of bike you want to get (or a big one that covers all sides of the community). I don't know any off the top of my head, but Google and paying attention to member count and activity should be a good indicator. From there it's just a matter of asking questions.
And never assume the guy in the car sees you. Always assume they don't see you. Getting complacent is a BAD IDEA when on a bike.