I am a "Newbie" and notice that most, if not all, of the worthwhile/reputable providers request multiple references which I do not yet have. Seems to be something of a catch-22, in order to get references you have to visit a good provider, but you first need to visit a good provider to get these references. How is this handled best?

Step 1.  Join P411.  They are easier to get registered with than Date-Check because you can call P411 and have someone take you through their process.  I would also join Date-Check, but do it later on, after getting some references.
Step 2.  Go through P411's roster and find those providers who list themselves as "newbie friendly."  Some say they are but aren't really.  All will want to do further screening and you'll need to cooperate in giving them some personal info.  This may be uncomfortable but few people get burned.  If you're not willing to do it, you might as well pack it in.  Stay away from the Backpage girls for now and stick with listed, well-reviewed providers to minimize the risk.
Step 3.  Once you've seen a provider through P411 ask them to "OK" you.  There's a button on each providers P411 page so you can do this after you've seen them. Then you're on your way.  It took me about a month to get all this done but now I'm able to see anyone I want.
PS:  The above is only about references. If you're a newbie there's a huge amount of other info you need to understand, so please read back as far as possible on this board and also read the Newbie Manual.
Good luck!

I would look at the ladies websites you are interested in because some ladies offer alternatives if you have no references.I occasionally get newbie guys and another option I offer is employment verification in lieu of references some are comfortable with this some are not.It just depends on you but I would definitely get signed up with P411 because you can search for newbie friendly providers.Also VIP here will be your best friend on making a well informed decision so you can research the lady or ladies you are interested in so you know if you will be a good match.I know some people offer a newbie the advice of seeing an agency first to get references but keep in mind that not all independent providers take certain agency references.

So be patient,do your research,sign-up with a verification site,and go with well-reviewed ladies.I know it is a Catch22 all of us had to start somewhere including us providers before we had reviews.Once you start seeing ladies and having references it will be a lot easier.Also read the self-help newbie manual a lot of subjects are there that can help you out.Take heed to the advice you are given and you will not have a problem.
Enjoy in this wonderful experience you are about to partake in.

That's how I got my foot in the door. A local lady's Eros ad said that she saw new gentlemen, as did her web site, so I contacted her and explained that I was a newbie. We set up a time for her to call me at work, she did, and we were golden... and so was the session. ("It wuz teh hawtness!!1!1") I then signed up for Date-Check, she verified me, and I'm now a trial full member until February, at which time I'll pay the fee to continue (it's so worth it).

Agreed with everything said, and I would add...some Providers are REALLY well known in the community.  I started with P411 and booked a very well known Provider and asked her for a reference.  Once I had her reference, it was pretty easy to book with other Providers because they all knew her or knew of her.

You can usually tell the well known Providers because they are very well reviewed and usually have lots of links to other Providers on their website (or offer doubles with them).

I am in the same boat as you. Best of luck to you and thx all on those post for the tips.