Getting back to Rated Chess

Hey all,

I wanted to get some feedback in case others have gone into this situation...

Back in high school I played in a few tournaments and had to stop just because of my location. (Tournaments were 2hrs+ away)

10 years later I'm looking into getting back into the fray now that I'll be moving to a location where chess is actually promoted.

I've seen tournaments that have FIDE rating and USCF. I know you need a membership for USCF, but I couldn't see anything similar for FIDE, how does FIDE work?

What tournaments should I consider playing? Thanks for your opinions.

FIDE tournaments cost money, but you just show up and participate. I don't think you have to buy membership as well. You'll only be able to play in open tournaments or ones designated for non-masters (There are rating bracketed tournaments) so play those haha. When you get into higher ratings you can go to more closed entry tournaments.

If you're from the US, the organizer (via the USCF) will arrange for a FIDE ID for you. There's no specific membership requirement, but you'll have to get at least a point in your first 9 games in order to get a rating from FIDE.

Thanks Plawo and andrewrun!