Back on the newb main page, near the life preserver. The refernce issue is brought up almost every hour on this board. Scroll down the board,2, 3,4, 5 pages back and read all about it. Or do a search using references or screening as the subject.  As you have found everything is available on the internet, including screening services like date check and P411. Google these two and learn all about them. And yes, I was a newb once myself.  Good luck.

But don't be put off just because there's a lot to learn.  Everyone on this board has been through this and will tell you it's worth it.  Dealing with screening issues (I recommend P411 and DateCheck), and finding the right providers does take work.  But once you deal with the unknowns and take the plunge you can have a blast.  Good luck and hang in there.  There are lots of girls on P411 who are "newbie friendly."  See them, then get them to "OK" you on the site.  The whole new world will be open to you.  It ain't that hard.

I hear you,

Reference had been problematic for me since I started a few months ago. Agencies asked for different things ranging from previous provider phone numbers to an email from my work account! Second is ridiculous if you ask me. I just erase them from my TDL if their requests become personal.

I do not like to share personal information.