Jay-
I didn't date in my first year, I needed some time to work on myself. I just went out on my first date about 2 weeks ago and it was great. Looking back, I was sort of following that rule, but I should have done it much sooner. I think it depends on the person and how you are doing in your recovery.
If you're feeling good and confident in yourself and you think you're ready then go for it. One thing I'll say is that be ready for some emotions you haven't felt in a while sober. I was totally wired after going out on my date and I felt a lot of old stuff come up afterwards. I got through it with help from here, but it was the first time in a long time I felt like drinking for some reason. I didn't drink and it made me stronger and more confident in the end, but it was the first time I dealt with some of those emotions sober in 20 years and it was a little hard to handle at first.