The IRS will begin processing e-filed tax returns today, January 29 this year.
They have selected a small number of test returns to start processing before January 29, so you may have heard of someone whose return has already been accepted.
That process is entirely random, so there isn't anything you can do to speed up the process.
Keep in mind that the initial processing of your e-file may take 24 to 48 hours, so you could remain in pending status until February 1.