I want to learn programming, in the long run so I can create customer drivers for windows and linux. I obviously have a long way to go seeing as I know nothing about programming. But I've posted several places to get feedback;

What language would be a good starting point, why?

Suggest C or C++. You'll need it for writing your drivers. M.S. VC++ is (or was - I've not checked this week) available for FREE download at their website, as sometimes is their Driver Development Kit (look in the developers section). Herbert Schildt has written some very good books on the subject (McGraw Hill publishers) aimed at the various Windows platforms.

Have a look here: http://www.osronline.com/article.cfm?article=20#Q25