What to put down as references for job application

[Namechangedtostar]

I am filling in a job application. I am required to put down three references - referees.

I can place down my current employer. So that's one.

My previous employment before that was about 5 years ago and I don't fancy contacting that company for a reference.

I have another referee option for number two.

I am stuck for number three.

I had employment from 2004 to 2006. Do I phone the company and ask for a referee. It's been so long.

I have one referee with a letter from 2003. With a letter. I don't even know if I should use that. It's been so long.

Also the application form has sections for employments . I detailed my four recent employments which dates back to 2008. There's sections for more employments. Do I have to provide all of my employment history going back to the year 2000 and something?

Can anyone help me please?

Why wouldn’t you put down the HR office for the prior company from 5 years ago? You don’t need to contact them to ask for a reference. All they can do as a reference is confirm you worked in job position blah de blah from this date to that date. They can’t say you were shit at your job or anything negative.

A lot of companies only retain records for 7 years so won’t give a reference if it was over 7 years ago

you could add current employer and personal reference
just fill in personal/ character ref