I got mine on my 16th birthday. I never bothered with a permit, but took driver's ed a couple of months before. I'll never forget my 16th - not only did I get my driver's license that day, but had to attend TWO wedding showers for my sister who was getting married in a few weeks. Then, that night I came home to a surprise party for me. I guess my parents felt like they needed to make up for the fact that my sister was the star on my 16th.
My oldest son got his a few days after his 16th birthday, and the 2nd one was about a week after. They got permits around age 15 6 months and you had to wait until 6 months later to get the license.
My twins are old for their grade so they will be driving when they are Sophomores in high school. Ack!