call this number at the NRA range 703 267-1400
and punch the button to find out about monthly activities. You usually have to sign up for a match on the tuesday before the match, you gotta be quick cause by noon all the good times are taken. You can also just come by on the evening of a match and watch, bring eyes and ears and come on back to the impact end of the range where eveyone is shooting.
I took an intro to IDPA class taught by NRA that gave a pretty good basic intro to tactical style shooting. I don't believe it is required to shoot a match. I also don't believe it is required that you join IDPA for the first match or two.
I was going to go to the match this month after a long hiatus but i have a pistol class that weekend and so that blows my shooting time allowance. Email if you'd like to go with me to the next one, if so we can hook up and you can watch me screw up.