CV guide · Updated 16 October 2026
References on a CV: what UK employers expect
Short answer: you don't need to put references on a UK CV, and you shouldn't put your referees' contact details on it. Employers usually ask for references later, often when they make a job offer. Here's what to do instead, and how to get your referees ready.
Do you need references on your CV?
No. The National Careers Service advises against putting someone else's contact details on your CV. You don't need a "References available on request" line either: employers assume you can provide references, so leave it out and use the space for your experience.
| Situation | What to put on your CV |
|---|---|
| Most jobs | Nothing. Have two referees ready for when you're asked |
| The advert asks for referees on the CV | Names, job titles and how you know them, with their permission. Contact details only if the advert asks |
| Application form with a references section | Fill in the form, with permission, and leave them off the CV |
| Speculative CV to a small local employer | Nothing on the CV. You can say in your email that referees are ready if they'd like them |
Tip: Never list someone as a referee without asking them first. It's their personal information, and an unprepared referee gives a weaker reference.
Applying in Ireland? Employers there say "referees" rather than "references", but the advice is the same: have two ready and leave out a "Referees available on request" line. See the Irish CV format guide.
When employers ask for references
Acas guidance says it's best for employers to ask for references at the final stage of recruitment, when making a job offer, and to get the applicant's permission before contacting their current employer. That's why many offers are "subject to satisfactory references".
Some sectors that do safer recruitment, such as schools and care, may ask for referees on the application form and contact them earlier. The application form will tell you.
Who to choose as a referee
- Your current or most recent manager: most employers expect this as your main reference.
- A previous manager: especially from a job relevant to the one you're applying for.
- For students and first jobs: a teacher, tutor, form tutor, coach, volunteering supervisor or work experience supervisor.
- Character reference: someone respected who knows you well but isn't family, such as a club leader. Use one only if the employer accepts it.
Most employers ask for two. Pick people who know your work, will reply promptly and will say good things that are true.
How to ask someone to be your referee
- Ask before you apply, and say which kinds of jobs you're going for.
- Send them the job advert and your CV so they know what to highlight.
- Check their preferred email address and job title.
- Tell them when they might be contacted, and thank them afterwards.
The free reference request letter template writes the message for you.
What employers can say in a reference
By law, an employer doesn't have to give a reference except in a few cases, such as when they've agreed to in writing or for some regulated financial services roles (Acas). Some employers only confirm your job title and dates because of their own reference policy. That's normal and doesn't mean anything is wrong.
If you're worried about getting a reference from a particular employer, Acas has guidance on what to do if you can't get one.
If you don't have a referee
- First job: use a teacher, tutor, coach or volunteering supervisor.
- Returning after a career break: use your last employer, even if it was a while ago, plus someone from volunteering or study.
- Self-employed: a long-standing client or business contact.
- Left on bad terms: use another manager or colleague from the same employer who can confirm your work, or a previous employer.
See how to explain a gap in your CV if a long break is part of the reason.
If the advert asks for referees on the CV
Add a short section at the end, with permission from each referee:
- [Name], Store Manager, [Company] (my line manager, 2023–2025). Contact details on request.
- [Name], Head of Sixth Form, [School] (my form tutor, 2024–2026). Contact details on request.
Only include phone numbers or email addresses if the advert specifically asks and your referee has agreed.
FAQs
Should I put references on my CV in the UK?
No. You don't need to, and you shouldn't put referees' contact details on your CV. Leave out "References available on request" too: employers assume you can provide them.
Is "References available on request" still used?
You'll still see it, and the National Careers Service mentions it, but employers assume you can provide references, so it adds nothing. Leave it out and use the space for your experience.
How many references do I need?
Most employers ask for two, usually including your current or most recent manager. The application form or job offer will say.
Can a friend or family member be a referee?
Not family. A friend is only appropriate as a character reference if the employer accepts one. Work, education or volunteering referees are better.
Who should a student use as a referee?
A teacher, tutor, coach, volunteering supervisor or work experience supervisor who knows you well. Ask them first.
Can my employer refuse to give a reference?
Usually, yes. Acas says employers don't have to give a reference by law except in some situations, such as when they've agreed to in writing or for certain regulated financial services jobs. Some only give a basic reference confirming your job title and dates.
When will an employer contact my referees?
Usually at the job offer stage, with your permission, according to Acas guidance. Some sectors, such as schools and care, may contact them earlier as part of safer recruitment.
Sources
Links checked 15 October 2026.