Even I will make my dates wait for sex. What I do is look for qualities in them that will make the sex safe and fulfilling. Look for trustworthiness, emotional maturity, sensitivity to your needs, open to physical affection (hugging, flirtatious touching, cuddling...I won't have sex with anyone who isn't going to give me the post-orgasm cuddle! >_<) and last but certainly not least...good hygiene! Of course, insert or remove whatever points you desire to make your 'checklist'. It could take days, weeks or months to verify all the points. Kinda depends on how open the other person is.
Don't rush into sex. Not just for the STDs that everyone is so concerned about...but also, the sex itself will probably be a let down. If you still have doubts, you won't feel able to let go and just enjoy yourself.