Internet of things (IoT) plays a vital role in present days in developing a sustainable environment. Due to overpopulation, which increases the pressure of using the vehicle on the road, IoT is the best technology to use resources and space effectively. IoT is friendly to the environment, energy efficiency, and public services. This proposed review article provides insight into the application of IoT in smart cities exclusively for traffic requirements. The article also discusses sensor technologies adopted for IoT applications. This paper provides valuable data to implement IoT in smart cities to enhance the technology development in the country. © 2022 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.