IACRA and Gold Seal

[RefugePilot]

You may renew your certificate at any time, and at the same time, apply for the gold seal.

Yes you can, and it is a good idea when you are qualified to renew it. If you get out of flight instructing full time, as you move on, you may no longer be qualified, but still want to teach in the future. So if you have 5 passed students in 2 years go ahead and renew, so you are good for 2 more years.