Promoters are DNA sequences that are bound by RNA polymerase to regulate the initial transcription of genes. They play a key role in regulating the expression of genes within the spatial and temporal context of an organism. Insects are the most diverse group of organisms worldwide, with the largest number of identified species. Different types of promoters play an important role in the research and application of insects. In this paper, the basic structure, classification, identification, and current research of insect promoters are reviewed. Additionally, the potential application of insect promoters in genome editing and transgenic technology is discussed.