Laser surface modification technology improves material surface properties through the interaction of a laser beam with the material surface. This paper reviews the fundamental principles, current research status, and specific applications of laser cladding, laser shock peening, laser transformation hardening, and?laser texturing?in rail transportation. Laser cladding prepares various cladding layers on the surface of the substrate material to improve its properties or repair it, with a focus on controlling residual stresses in the surface and heat-affected zone and inhibiting crack initiation. Laser shock peening generates shockwaves in the subsurface of the material to increase its hardness and wear resistance, emphasizing the study of residual stress distribution patterns and fatigue fracture resistance mechanisms on the material surface. Laser transformation hardening creates high-hardness, low-toughness martensite on the material surface, improving surface hardness and wear resistance, with a focus on controlling residual stresses in the overlap zone. Laser texturing enhances surface properties by generating microstructures on part surfaces, prioritizing the optimization of process parameters to improve material surface quality. The paper concludes by suggesting directions for future development of laser surface modification technology, focusing on modification mechanisms and applied research areas.