As the most representative valve metal, aluminum, magnesium and titanium based materials have many characteristics such as high specific strength, good processing performance and excellent biocompatibility. They are widely used in aerospace, automotive, electronic communication, medical and other major industries. However, the tribological behaviour of aluminum, magnesium and titanium based materials is generally poor. This paper reviews the theoretical basis and application research status of using micro-arc oxidation technology to improve the tribological behaviour of aluminum, magnesium and titanium based materials. The effects of electrolyte systems, electrical parameters and micro-arc oxidation time on the morphology, composition, microstructure and tribological behaviour of micro-arc oxidation coatings are summarized. The direct composite technology and secondary composite technology of micro-arc oxidation are introduced. Finally, the future application and development are prospected.