Would you tell your boss you are looking for a new job? How about if asking for reference?

No, I wouldn’t tell my boss I’m looking for a new job. Asking for a reference could be tricky, but it’s not impossible. It may depend on how well you have been getting along with your boss or the company in general. If you have been a good employee and have had positive interactions, then it might be worth asking if they can provide a reference.