The conventions at a glance
Checked on 9 October 2026 against the sources at the foot of the page. Conventions are what employers expect; the law protects you from discrimination whatever your CV says.
| Item | On a UK CV? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Photo | No, unless the job asks for one (acting, modelling) | Not expected for UK jobs; your evidence should lead the page. |
| Date of birth or age | No | The National Careers Service says not to include them. Age is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010. |
| Marital status | No | Not relevant; being married or in a civil partnership is a protected characteristic. |
| Nationality | No | The National Careers Service says to leave it off. Your right to work is checked separately. |
| Address | Town or city | Enough to show where you live; give a full address on an application form if it asks. |
| Phone and email | Yes | How the employer contacts you for an interview. |
| Profile | Yes, three or four lines | Who you are in work terms and the job you want. |
| References | Optional section; no contact details | Name referees when asked, with their permission. |
| Right to work | Optional one line | Employers must check it before you start; see right to work on a CV. |
| Driving licence | Only if the job needs driving | Care at home, deliveries and sales roles often do. |
| National Insurance number | Never | The employer asks for it when you start. |
| Length | One to two sides of A4 | Longer only for academic and some medical posts. |
| File type | PDF, or Word if asked | Follow the advert's instruction. |
Personal details
The National Careers Service says your CV should give your name, phone number, email address and a work profile link if you have one, and should not include your age, your date of birth, whether you are married or your nationality. Our personal details guide covers photos and referees in more detail.
Why some details stay off
Under the Equality Act 2010 it is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of age, gender reassignment, being married or in a civil partnership, being pregnant or on maternity leave, disability, race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation (GOV.UK, checked 9 October 2026). Leaving these details off your CV keeps the first read about your evidence.
Gaps and formal checks
A short neutral line can explain a gap; you do not owe more detail than the job needs. See how to explain a gap. Background checks such as DBS and right-to-work checks happen after an offer, through the employer's own process.