TFaudree- I don't think you'll ever be specifically cleared for an ODP.
Trybysky- I just looked this up recently, and actually put a copy of the whole ops. spec. in my clipboard for reference, which I happen to have with me.
The ops spec. is C077, and the part that applies is paragraph D:
"Terminal Departures IFR. The flight crew must comply with the departure procedures established for a particular airport by the FAA if ATC does not specify any particular departure procedure in the takeoff clearance given for that airport. The flight crew may accept an IFR clearance containing a clearance for a VMC takeoff and climb out to a specified point in the clearance, if the limitations and provisions of subparagraph e. of these Operations Specifications are met."
Paragraph E is limitations for VFR ops, and it basically says that we must still meet the applicable performance requirements, and the weather conditions must be sufficient to see and avoid obstacles.
Hope that helps. How are you liking the tube?