Direct measurement of dynamic loads on engineering structures is challenging due to environmental constraints. Therefore，the indirect identification or reconstruction of dynamic loads，using dynamic response information，has emerged as a highly effective method. Over decades，dynamic load identification has evolved，resulting in a series of valid solutions. This paper begins by reviewing the research history and main achievements of dynamic load identification methods. It provides a systematic exposition of typical frequency domain and time domain methods，as well as dynamic load identification methods which are based on various approaches such as function fitting，regularization strategies，Bayesian frameworks，and data-driven techniques. The advantages and disadvantages ，as well as application scope of each method，are also discussed. Additionally，this paper summarizes common issues in the load identification process，including uncertainties in structural parameters and input conditions. Identifying the position of dynamic loads is also a crucial aspect of the dynamic load identification problem. This paper analyzes the methods currently available for position identification. This paper delves into the engineering applications of dynamic load identification methods and analyzes the limitations of current methods. Considering the current challenges in the field of dynamic load identification and the increasing demands in practical engineering applications，the paper anticipates the technical difficulties that need to be addressed. It also discusses potential future development directions and key areas in dynamic load identification.