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Legal liability of the parties involved is the tall pole in the tent.
The industry realized that policing itself would be better than letting the government screw it up.
The fact that it is a revenue stream helps and mates nicely with gear purchases is a win/win.
The nature of the dangers (silent and unforgiving) make basic training a really wise choice.
You really don't need a cert to buy gear (online or used). Air fills or charters are another matter.
Think that about covers it. Also agree with Richard in not wanting to dive with someone not certified--OW cert. means most likely he/she was at least SHOWN all the stuff.
Skydiving: If you have a friend pilot your own plane and you jump out (maybe over your own land) without the required instructor cert. are you illegal?