Diabetic nephropathy, as one of the diabetic microvascular complications, is characterized by a high prevalence rate and rapid progression, and brings a heavy burden to the patients. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has unique advantages in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic nephropathy. The diagnosis and treatment by TCM is presented and promoterd in the forms of standards, guidelines, and diagnosis and treatment programs, etc. This article analyzed and summarized the contents and application of TCM syndrome differentiation for diabetic nephropathy by the three TCM guidance documents since the 21st century, in order to provide basis for standardization and normalization of TCM syndrome differentiation of diabetic nephropathy.