Some tournaments have unrated sections. If you don't want to play in the open section (with the strongest players) then usually you're put in the lowest section, but depending on the TD I'd think you could talk your way into whatever section you want.
Your rating is provisional for your first 25 games, but yes you get a rating after your first game. During those first 25 games though it can change rapidly.
So I am looking at registering for a USCF tournament in my area...I have never played in a live tournament, so obviously I don't have a USCF rating...
So when registering, what grouping (Open, U1800, U1400, U1200 & U1000) would I be placed in?
And would I "earn" a rating after playing in this tourney?
Thanks for any other advice or insight for me...