The DVSA is calling on operators to clean interiors before presenting a vehicle for testing.

The DVSA suggests the dashboard, doors and vehicle controls should all be wiped down ahead of presentation.

Food wrappers, bottle and tissues should be cleared away and essential items, such as a fire extinguisher, should be stored in their correct positions.

A DVSA spokesperson said: “We do not expect your vehicle or trailer to have a full valet before its test.

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“But our staff do have to get into the cab as part of the inspection.

“So wiping down the interior of the vehicle beforehand is really important.

“The government has issued guidance about how to keep transport clean and prevent the transmission of coronavirus from touching contaminated surfaces.”

Before testing vehicle standards assessors must be satisfied that the interior has recently been cleaned.

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The spokesperson added: “There are a handful of occasions we refuse to test a vehicle because of issues with cleanliness.

“Vehicle standards assessors know our policy on vehicle cleanliness and if there’s time, they will give the operator/presenter a chance to clean the cab before refusing to test.

“If the standards cannot be met on the day, we’ll issue an official refusal.”