Pop star George Michael has admitted to driving while under the influence of drugs and says he's "perfectly prepared to accept the correct punishment."

The 43-year-old singer, whose real name is George Panayiotou, pleaded guilty to the charge in a London court on Tuesday.

Singer George Michael performs at the MEN Arena on the opening night of the British leg of his tour in Manchester, England, on Nov. 17, 2006.
(Jon Super/Associated Press)

He blamed "tiredness and prescribed drugs" for the 2006 incident in question, though he did not say specifically what drugs he had been taking.

"I am perfectly aware that I did something very wrong and got into my car when I was unfit to drive," he told the court.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of six months in jail and a fine of up to £5,000 (nearly $11,000 Cdn).

Sentencing was deferred until the court receives the results of further blood tests. Another hearing is scheduled for May 30.

Last October, police arrested Michael after discovering him slumped over in a car in north London early one morning. The singer had been arrested in a similar condition in February 2006.

Michael is set to return to performing with an upcoming European tour. He is also scheduled to give the first-ever concert in the newly revamped Wembley Stadium in London on June 9.

The singer has sold more than 80 million records as both the frontman for 1980s duo Wham! and as a bestselling solo artist.

Michael's hits include Wake Me Up Before You Go Go, Kissing a Fool, Freedom 90, Careless Whisper, Faith and I'm Your Man.

With files from the Associated Press.