British racing drivers are no strangers to royal honors when they do well, and Lewis Hamilton today finds that out first hand, being inducted into the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II.

The induction ranks Hamilton at the entry level of the Order, with the title of member, or MBE. Sir Jackie Stewart, former F1 world champ and also a British subject, was made an Officer of the order (OBE) in 1972, and raised to knighthood for his motoring feats in 2001.

"I am very fortunate to have been awarded for achieving my dream," Hamilton said of the honor. The induction takes place today at Buckingham Palace. Hamilton's inclusion in the order was announced at the end of 2008 as part of the UK's New Year ceremonies.