I am guessing it is a lifter but here is what is going on.
Motor is just freshly rebuilt. New lifters, valve springs, yada yada, etc...
When I start the car up, I hear a ticking noise from the passenger side of the car, I am guessing from the valve cover. It doesn't get louder or anything as I continue to drive, stays about the same noise volume. Anyways, is it a lifter? What is going on? Is it safe to just drive around or take on the highway to get it fixed? I am going to change my oil today and filter. I am just curious if it is safe to drive or not cause I was going to go to my parents place back home (70 miles away) for my dad's birthday and now I don't know if it would make the trip or not. Also, is this an easy fix or a PITA? Thanks

 

Does it go with the rpms?

 

yes

 

It's possible one of your valves is simply adjusted incorrectly (too loose) or that the lock on one of your rockers has backed off. Don't go assuming it's a lifter before you check the simple stuff.