I was wondering how long does an author have to post before they are taken of moderated posting and allowed to post on their own? Did I make sense with this question? lol

It depends, GB. LOL That's the best answer I can give you without revealing site secrets.  I can tell you that anyone whose work is always more or less error-free and meets the site's other requirements is generally put on auto eventually.  Only Dia can do that, though; all the other mods can do is make recommendations one way or the other.

Ahhh, I see. That's kewl. i was just wondering 'cause that's how I am lol.