The linear ultrasonic motor is a new type of actuator with a unique structure and principle that has wide-ranging applications in the high and new-tech areas. First, this paper reviews the research progress in motor design and proposes theories and methods of motor design, particularly the evolution of motor structure and the design method for the clamping of the motor. Second, some advances in theoretical motor models were reported, in which the electromechanical coupling model of the stator, friction contact model, and impact model between the stator and mover were developed. Finally, the latest applications of the linear ultrasonic motor were presented, which indicate that it has been applied to a high-precision motion platform, cell micromanipulation, micro clip and gravimetric system.