A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Minneapolis: DL DM charter 2.3MM
Programs: A3*Gold, SPG Plat, HyattDiamond, MarriottPP, LHW exAccess, ICI, Raffles Amb, NW PE MM, TWA Gold MM
Posts: 102,617
SC access isn't a DM "gift" (by which I assume that you mean Choice Benefit) unless you want the Executive Membership that includes guests.
As soon as the MQMs (or whatever) post and delta.dumb recognizes your DMness, your boarding pass will say DM-SC member. You show this and a photo ID to enter the lounge. There's no need to wait for several months.