Chimeric antigen receptor-modified T (CAR-T) cells have achieved significant success in the treatment of several hematological malignancies. However, the translation of the existing achievements into the treatment of other tumors, especially solid tumors, is not smooth. In addition to the optimization of CAR structures, preparation, and clinical protocols, rational selecting and utilizing the targets was more pivotal. In this review, the criteria for target selection and some new strategies for targets utilization were summarized and discussed. This systematic review will help researchers better understand how the efficacy and safety of CAR-T treatment would be affected by targets and thus more rationally select targets and conduct clinical trials.