Every previously commissioned Notary Public in the state of California must renew their commission status with the Secretary of State's office every 4 years. It is important for a notary public's status to be renewed before it expires with the Secretary of State's office. 

For a notary public to renew their commission in California, an approved notary public course is required. However, If a notary public allows their commission status to expire, the state requires they retake a 6 hour course and reapply as a new applicant. 

According to the Secretary of State, it is best to take your notary public exam at least 6 months prior to the expiration date of your current commission. Official test results are valid for up to  1 year from the date of examination. (California Code of Regulations, Title 2, section 20803.)