F-1 visa expired, need to renew passport

[Paip]

My passport will be expiring soon, and I’d like to renew it at the Houston Embassy. Because my F-1 student visa expired during my studies and I’m currently not in status, I read in the renewal requirements that I must sign an affidavit of no status with the signatures of two witnesses that are Indian citizens and green card holders in front of a notary.

The issue is that I don't know anyone living near me that I could get the signatures from. The only qualifying individuals I know live out of state and I will not be able to have them physically present during the notarization process. Are they required to be physically present during the notarization process or can their signatures, passport/card scans be obtained through fax? What can I do at this point?

Can I apply for passport renewal with just me signing the affidavit?

I called the consulate and I was told that whatever is required in the form must be done. But what if I don't have anyone I know that qualifies?

Thanks for your help!

[immihelp]

Notarization must be done in person, by physically being present.

I understand that the requirements are crazy and not practical for many people.

But what they have said is really the procedure and that is what you must do.