Relationship advice?!

I met a very sweet guy who is the most respectful and thoughtful person I have ever met. I gave him my number so we could talk more and he texted me the very next day. We talk nonstop and I am seriously crushing on him. Problem is.... My dad is very protective which is understandable. Although I understand his point of view, I think I should be able to date a ft at my age(17) especially because he is so sweet. How do I get my dad to see that I am old enough to date?