Abstract: The promoter is a DNA sequence that regulates the expression of a particular gene. Knowledge of the promoters used in gene constructs for genetic transformation is essential for successfully applying GM technology. Promoters can be classified as constitutive, inducible and organ/tissue specific. The use of inducible and organ/tissue specific promoters has gained importance, because of its extensive applicability. This review presents a summary of the different types of promoters with examples of some of them that have been identified and characterized for genetic transformation of various plant species.