My understanding was that if you do 3 IDPA events it means you don't have to go through the pre-course qualification but you still need to take the instructors courses.

Glock 19,23, 26, 27, 29, 30, 36, springfield XDs in subcompact, Ruger SR9c, S&W M&Ps in subcompact, Ruger LCP, Ruger LC9, Beretta PX4 subcompact, keltek PF9, P11, p3AT and a shit load more options for you to choose from
This is how I was sept 16 bday started K at 4 but was 5 a few weeks into school ended up doing 2 yrs in K due to a speech impediment (Damn "r" sounds).