Although it is quite annoying, the FAA deems it mandatory to register drones. It is easy to do, but costs $5. It can all be done online at FAA Drone Zone .
REGULATIONS- what a pain. Cant just fly a drone anywhere anymore. There have been drones reported by airplane pilots at high altitudes...
Wolf- I've heard from a drone pilot friend that it is a great option! The price makes it a comparable choice to the mavic air. Which Mavic are you saving up for? I just got the 2 Pro, lightly used, on a buy/sell app.
-Kat
You can get all of the resources for free at the FAA UAS website. It will have all of the rules and regs you need to fly drones in the USA.
https://www.faa.gov/uas/
ASA and Gleim are easy options for books if you are looking for exam prep.
-Kat
Pilot Element
Wolf-
How's the Mavic clone? Interested in getting one myself and comparing it to DJI. I fly a DJI Phantom 3 Pro, and also still learning the tricks of the trade. Also just got the FAA Remote Pilot Cert. Can't wait to see how everything goes with the flying.
-Kat
pilotelement.com
Hi Drone Community!
I'm Kat. sUAS Remote Pilot and enthusiast. I currently fly a DJI Phantom 3 Professional. Looking forward to contributing and learning from everyone on DroneVibes.
Drone Goals:
1. Design and build a drone using 3D Printing and Arduino
2. Create a Drone Resource website...
There are some packages on Amazon that look like a good starting point for your shopping. I looked up "racing drone" on Amazon and a few good ones popped up. Some even have controllers and goggles with the purchase. It sounds like a fun way to fly drones. Thinking about trying it out myself...
A DJI Spark is right in your price range, like everyone else said. Also, would you consider a lightly used drone? or are you tied to buying a brand new one? I've had the opportunity to buy a DJI Phantom and DJI Mavic in that range my looking on second-hand sources like OfferUp.
If you do...
There are a lot of options out there. I started with a mini quadcopter to learn how to control and fly it. It was less than $50. After getting the Remote Pilot Certificate, I invested in a DJI Phantom Pro which is a lot more fun with a lot more capability.
I guess it depends on what you want to...
I've seen a few DJI copy-cats out there that would be in your price range. Amazon would be an easy place to start shopping.
Kat
Pilot Element
pilotelement.com