Thin-layer chromatography is a conventional analytical method in quality control of traditional Chinese medicines. Many advantageous characteristics make it an important technology in quality research. However, with the continuous updating of many technologies, the application status and development trend of TLC also reflect some limitations. This paper summarizes the research advances in TLC in terms of active ingredient discovery, qualitative and quantitative analysis and current technological development, aiming to provide a reference for the in-depth study of TLC in the quality control research of traditional Chinese medicine.