1996 Volkswagen Jetta GL needs smog cert. but check engine light is on

I have a 1996 Volkswagen Jetta GL that has an electrical fault that
causes the 'Check Engine' light on the dash to be constantly
illuminated. Does this pose a problem for smog certification? The car
is mechanically sound and will almost certainly pass in all other
areas. If this does pose a problem, are there ways around it?

Thanks in advance for any information you can provide,
Matt Brent