Abstract: By reviewing the instrumented indentation methods for determination of surface residual stress, the basic principle and mechanism for measuring residual stress by instrumented indentation was first expounded. The technical route for establishment of instrumented indentation methods for residual stress determination was also summarized. According to the classification of these methods, six representative instrumented indentation methods were discussed in detail to find out their corresponding advantages and limitations. Then, four commonly used stress-generating jigs to verify the reliability of instrumented indentation methods for residual stress determination were illustrated. Finally, the progress in instrumented indentation methods for surface residual stress determination was summarized. It was concluded that the future goal is to establish an instrumented indentation method for determining the mechanical parameters and non-equibiaxial residual stresses simultaneously without using stress-free reference samples. To establish such method, four research essentials, i.e., clear examination mechanism, reliable analysis process, technical feasibility, and reliable results, were discussed.