And to add to the discussion.... a passport is good and authoritative for many other things. Like getting a drivers license when you move to another state for example. Otherwise multiple forms of identification are needed. Same with employment at a new employer -- just present your passport, that is the only form that you need for the I-9 Form.

Many years ago, (while living in the DC area) my brother lost his passport. Finally determined that it was by the counter next to the trash can -- DUMPSTER is where it went!! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/duh.gif" alt="" />

He was leaving within 24 hours for Europe. He had a copy of his passport, fortunately -- we now keep copies at home and other places, just in case! We went got the photos BEFORE we went to the State Department - passport office (that was a key -- they did NOT have that capability on a Saturday -- we went with them in hand, at that time) (actually they said at the beginning, if we did not have the photos, then SOL), called the State Department in DC (on a Saturday) -- a lot of stuff, but he made the Sunday morning flight with the new passport in hand.

Not sure we want to do that again!!! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" /> But if you are in the right location, etc it is possible.

But at the time (many moons ago) if he did not have a copy of his passport and if we did not get the photos, etc. then he would have been SOL without question. And we called on a Saturday first thing in the morning, rushed shall we say............... <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" /> But the end result was positive. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" /> So it is possible, but not something I would count on.... things have to be and work just right, and I don't think there are any exceptions.

We know where are passports all at all times, and before a trip - at least a minimum of a month out we always find them again and check the dates.

Only exception to that rule ---- last minute (literally) leaving the country.

Actually sort of did that one time (now doubt you could do what we did without prior approval). But it was fun............. remember the old AMEX commercials?