Here in Mass., when we turn 16yo, we are allowed to get a permit (which is attained after taking a test on the driver's manual). With a permit, a person who is 21+ and has a license has to be in the car with you. While having your permit, you take the Driver's Ed. and take 6 "on-roads" with the instructor and then, if you are 16 1/2, you can sign-up for the Driver's test to get your temporary license. Finally, when you turn 21, I believe, you get your full license.