Driving Test and 185 Days

I've read that for people coming from the EU/EEA they have to wait 185 days before they can take the practical test, however this doesn't apply to people from the US.

Here is my fear - my wife goes through the lessons and builds herself up for the practical test (she hates tests) only for the examiner to turn her away because she doesn't meet the 185 day rule.

I've read on here of examiners contacting the DVLA and the DVLA confirming that it applies to people from the US, which it apparently doesn't.

What can I do in advance to avoid this situation without having her wait 185 days?

My step-mother knows an examiner at a local test center, which I could probably ask. But what would I do if they say the rule applies? I can't argue with him because it is a step-mother-friend. Maybe it's better not to contact him?

Help, Andy

Is your wife American?  It is my understanding that you are exactly right - this rule does not apply to anyone other than those coming from the EU/EEA.

In my experience, I was never once asked how long I has been in the UK, not by an instructor or examiner.

Here is a fairly recent discussion on the topic: http://talk.uk-yankee.com/index.php?topic=58023.0