Based in Dublin, Ireland, it was established in 1929 under the auspices of Conradh na Gaeilge (the Gaelic League), to control the formal aspects of Irish Dancing: dances and music were selected, noted down, and rules and regulations written on how the dances should be performed, and the dancing events organized.

An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha is active in two main areas: the organising and regulating of feiseanna (Irish Dancing competitions) worldwide, and the certification of dancing instructors and adjudicators, through a system of high level exams. For anyone too young or not yet qualified enough to attempt the TMRF(An Coimisiún certified Céili dance teacher), TCRG (Teagascóir Choimisiúin le Rincí Gaelacha - An Coimisiún certified dance teacher, both Céili and solo), or ADCRG (Ard Diploma Choimisiúin le Rincí Gaelacha - "highest diploma" of CLRG, i.e. adjudicator) exam, An tÚdaras Scrúdaíthe (the Examination Authority) of CLRG offers the - especially in Mainland Europe much appreciated - Scrúdaíthe Teastais agus Dioplomaí Rinceoirí : the Dancers Certificate and Diploma Examinations, more commonly known as Grade Exams.