My experience with NW clubs:
The first time I went to one they seemed to make a lot of clicks. The lady told me she had to put me in her system (maybe she's just bad with computers if they don't really have to do anything special)...I did have my card.

One time I tried to show my (NW) BP since United and Delta can just use my BP...NW didn't like the BP even though it had my SM#. They said they can't do anything with BPs...only card and ID.

I don't remember it taking long to get my card.