Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a class of zinc-dependent endopeptidases that play important roles in disease progression. High expression of MMPs is associated with various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases, and inflammatory diseases. For better understanding the roles of MMPs in these diseases’ development and the potential in early diagnosis and treatment monitoring, a number of sensors have recently been developed for MMPs detection in vitro and in vivo. These sensors are designed mainly based on the exploration of MMPs’ molecular structure and enzymatic activity. This review seeks to provide a summary for the development and application of the sensors for the detection of MMPs in the past three years. The research hotspots, current challenges, and further research directions in this field are also discussed.