17, california looking for advice on what i would need to learn to get more into building and driving lasers. already made a basic 900mw and drove it, just want pointers on where to go next
Check the stickies. You should find most of what you need there. Unless you have specific questions about something, you may find no one here will teach you everything you need to know.
I doubt any LPF member is going to participate in helping a 17 year old "minor" play with dangerous lasers.
To register and become a member of LPF you "must be the age of majority" meaning 18 or older in California and that your parents are no longer responsible for everything you do.
To register to be a member of LPF you must affirm that you understand, agree, and sign up to the Terms of Service which clearly states in #3 Eligibility the following:
"3. Eligibility
You must be the age of majority as that is defined in your jurisdiction to visit or use the Website in any manner. You represent and warrant to Laser Pointer Forums that You have reached the age of majority in your jurisdiction, and that You have the right, authority and capacity to agree to and abide by this Agreement. You also represent and warrant to Laser Pointer Forums that You will use the Website in a manner consistent with any and all applicable laws and regulations."
From: https://laserpointerforums.com/help/terms/