I got back to the US from central Mexico with a copy of my birth certificate, my car title and a letter of introduction and explanation from my American host in San Miguel and another letter from the Chief of Police.

No photo and no problem.

I had lost my Passport, Driver's license, Social Security card and credit cards while traveling. I had lots of anxiety about it but the Police told me that the letters would be ample to get me and my car back across.