Has anyone ever patented anything?
 

Have you? If so, whats the process with getting one. I guess you need to have an actual prototype as well..

Yes,I have real and utility patents on a number of items.Here is the link to the US patent and trademark dept.You will find it very helpful.

http://www.uspto.gov

I have a couple of patents. I paid a lawyer to deal with the issues, to much work.

No you don't have to have a prototype. The idea is enough.

When I was 16 I invented something "marketable" went to get it patented and they said it would cost $500 just to run a search to make sure nothing similiar is already on the market and to get the paper-work in order :/

But now you have those Invention-in-a-Box things. I see them on T.V. all the time. Got an idea? Call us and we'll send you some papers, lol. So maybe those might be worth checking out.

Also as adultguus says you don't need a prototype just an idea and maybe some drawings worked out so if you need backers/investors while patent is pending it would easier to explain.