Gardner, a local identity and former radio shock jock, turned himself in to the courts on Thursday, after a warrant was issued for his arrest last week.

Gardner was stopped by police in Braddon earlier this year, and was found to be driving without a licence.

He was also over the zero blood alcohol limit imposed on those with no licence.

Gardner failed to show up to two court appearances, prompting a warrant to be issued by Magistrate Robert Cook.

He fronted up to the ACT Magistrates Court on Thursday, meaning there was no need for his arrest.

Gardner, represented by lawyer Michael Kukulies-Smith, had his licence suspended for the minimum possible period of three months.

He was also fined $500 for drink driving and $500 for driving without a licence.

He will also have to pay court costs of roughly $200.

Gardner's return to the role of Fringe creative director was announced by Arts Minister Joy Burch earlier this year.

His leadership was hoped by Ms Burch to bring "flair and edge" to the 2014 festival.

News of Gardner's criminal charges prompted the opposition to quiz Ms Burch in the Legislative Assembly.

Ms Burch said she had been disappointed to hear of the case, but said Gardner looked to be meeting his contractual obligations as Fringe creative director.

The government has allocated $20,000 for a fringe-type event annually for four years, as well as an extra $20,000 of "in-kind support" for infrastructure and amenities for 2014.

Gardner was a founding director of the festival.

His involvement ended in 2009, when Fringe was merged with the National Folk Festival.

Previously, Gardner has worked with Win News Canberra and 2CC radio.