Awkward age..

I'm at the age of 16 soon to be 17 and I'm stuck in this awkward age for dating, I'm into older guys but it's a struggle. Because I can't date somebody 18+ without it being against the law. I hangout with older people at least 20-22. Some people might say stick with people your own age, but I've always felt comfortable hanging out with older people. It's hard to date because guys will be like "oh your 16?, Nevermind" And I've met some guys that are older and don't mind my age but I can tell the difference between a genuine guy and a creep. I wouldn't mind dating somebody my age but how do I do that I don't talk in school I keep to myself and outside of school I'm not around people my age.. The first guy I was with was 17 and I was 15, now I'm 16 and fwb with somebody 19.. My mom is giving me permission to date but I can't just be with somebody older and expect her to be okay with it..