Being new to the hobby I find that the majority of agencies and independents (or at least the ones that have I would enjoy spending time with) need references. But how does one get started in the DC area if all desire references?

Are there any legit providers/agencies with good reviews who accept newbies?

PM's are welcome

some agencies will take you- also another thing i did early on was join roomservice2000- paid small lifetime fee- think it was 20 which was well worth it- a lot of providers will accept that if you have been screened with them- couple other services Preferre411 (though bigger in Texas), Date-Check- there are some others that name escapes me

If you can get your employment verified some Ladies will take that as a reference. Date- Check will verify the employment for you but do not be suprised if the lady also wants to verify herself as well for her own peace of mind.

I agree.  Join those sites and that will help.

I know about a dozen established ladies in the DC area who either don't screen or will gladly overlook your lack of references. Just keep dialing.