Newbie that wants to learn RF transmission

I need to develop a circuit that will transmit a simple message via RF. The transmission needs to be approximately 300'. The message will consist of 2 "words" 1. a number to identify the transmitter, 2. a code to indicate the status. I have been trying to research this and I seem to understand a little. So I will recap. If I use 300-400 MHz then the transmitter need to shut itself off to be FCC compliant. The circuit is time sensitive so I think I should use 900MHz. I don't want to use something unreliable. I have been looking at RF Solutions, Linx and a couple others. I am going to use a microprocessor in the circuit like a PIC18F. On the transmitter end I will need USART and on the Receiver end I will need USART and USB. Are these assumptions correct? Any suggestions for transmitter/receiver modules?