First, are you still 17? If so, then you will have an even harder time freelancing because your ability to enter into contracts is questionable. There is est

First, are you still 17? If so, then you will have an even harder time freelancing because your ability to enter into contracts is questionable. There is established law regarding underage employees but not so much regarding freelancers. If you've been programming since 12 I imagine you do have a portfolio, it just might not be organized as such. So first thing to do is organize it this way. And if you don't have large enough projects to organize into a portfolio then you probably don't have the experience to freelance. If school wasn't for you could you consider a GED? That would at least be something that could help you find some type of employment even if it isn't exactly what you are looking for. I don't know what your circumstances are but I'm sure people with a lot harder situation than you have gone that route. Good luck either way.