extremely rare that the DTV validity was tied to passport expiration. I've heard of only one or two cases, an aberration. Consulate staffers gone rogue.
Depending on your passport you can enter using the free 60 day Visa exempt stamp and extend that 30 days hopefully by then you've turned 50 and apply for the non-o
You'll need to talk to the training camps and have them show you that they have a track record of successful paperwork and certification for approval. You also likely need a course schedule of 6 months at least.