I just subscribed to the SDMB. Is there a waiting period before I am allowed to access such things as memberlist or who’s online etc… 
Welcome to the Dope! Nope, once you’re a paying member, you get all the perks (such as they are) immediately, no waiting period required.
Hi, ms. deanna. You won’t be seeing a members list 'cause that’s been disabled for all of us, and the “Who’s online” thing works here with buddy lists and blue and green lights by people’s names, so I believe.
Could be chokky fish in the offing, though. S’what I’m hoping for. 
What they said.
If you look at the bottom of the page at the “Posting Rules” box, you’ll also see what is available to you when you make posts. Not all vB functions are accessible on this system.
Welcome to the Straight Dope community! Hope you enjoy your time here. We’re happy to answer any of your questions and do what we can to make your experience here a good one.
TubaDiva
(One of your administrators)
Thanks you guys.