CPAs vs. Non-Certified Accounting professionals - Clearing The Confusion

I want a nickel for every time someone asked me what the difference is with CPAs (certified public accountants) and non-certified accountants. Essentially, non-certified accounting professionals could simply put up their own firm and open their doors for clients. No further educational requirements needed. However, if they want to prepare taxes, many states requires them to do certain number of qualified hours of study and do additional hours of continues education each year.