Sometimes. The onboard computer is alerting you that there is a problem. There are hundreds of reasons the check engine light can come on, though, so it takes a professional mechanic to run through the check engine light diagnostics for each fault code. They will also ask you for input on how the car has been running. At that point, the reason for the light will be determined, and you will know if it is an emergency or not. The service staff at Tire Works will recommend how to proceed.
Don’t simply ignore the light. Driving with an undiagnosed problem can lead to more damage that will cost you even more time and money later.