If you're like most teens, then you probably can't wait until the day you receive your driver's license so that you can have a greater sense of freedom and independence. In most states, you can get your license as early as age 16, but only if you follow the necessary preparation and training (such as enrolling in a driver's education course). Beyond that, however, there are a few steps to getting your license faster that you also want to follow.

Invest in a Quality Study Guide

One major obstacle you'll need to pass before you can receive your license (aside from the dreaded road test) is the written exam. The best way to prepare for this, aside from taking a driver's education course, is to invest in a quality study guide and read it regularly. The nice thing about this is that you don't have to be a certain age to use a study guide, so you can even get yourself a head start by buying and using a study guide before you obtain your learner's permit.

Take Online Practice Tests

Another great way to prepare for success the first time you take your written exam is to simply take some practice tests online. These will use similar questions to what most actual written exams use and are even structured in the same way, making this a great option for those looking to get some experience before taking the written exam.

Get Your Permit as Soon as Possible

Another way to make sure you get your driver's license quickly is to obtain your learner's permit as soon as possible. Each state has different laws and regulations in place regarding this, but some states allow you to get your permit as young as 14 years old.

Once you have your permit, most states require you to wait a certain number of months and/or obtain a specific number of driving hours under your belt before you apply for your license. Therefore, the sooner you get your permit, the sooner you can become eligible for your driver's license.

Keep Track of Your Logged Hours

One important aspect of preparing for your road exam is logging some hours driving with a licensed and responsible adult. In most states, you'll need to acquire at least 50 hours of driving time, with at least 10 of those hours being at night. When you go to your local DMV to apply for your license, they'll ask for proof of these hours, so make sure you're keeping detailed documentation of them. Otherwise, you might have a hard time proving them.

Specifically, you should log the dates, times, and miles driven for each time you log practice time behind the wheel.

Have the Necessary Identification

One surefire way to delay the process of getting your license is showing up at your DMV branch without the necessary documentation. In addition to your hours-driven log, you'll also need to bring some official forms of identification, such as your learner's permit, a state ID, and possibly a birth certificate or Social Security card. Some states will also require that you bring in a form of ID that proves your residency, so make sure you check the requirements of your local DMV to make sure you bring everything with you on the day of your test.

It's no secret that the path to getting your driver's license does take some time. Still, there are a few ways in which you can get your license faster, so be sure to follow these tips and you'll be a licensed driver in no time. Good luck with your exam!