[3][4] Following the folding of the A Championship in 2011, Tralee Dynamos submitted an application for a licence to compete in the League of Ireland First Division for the 2012 season.

[7][8] It was announced on 22 June 2022 that an application had been made by Kerry Football Club, an entity comprising the KDL and a consortium led by Brian Ainscough, Steven Conway and Billy Dennehy, for a licence to compete in the League of Ireland for the 2023 season.

[19][20] Later that same day, Treaty United midfielder Matt Keane was announced as the club's first signing, followed by Seán McGrath from Cobh Ramblers.

[21] The club's first ever competitive senior fixture took place on 17 February 2023, a 2–0 home defeat against Cobh Ramblers at Mounthawk Park.

[22][23] The following week, Leo Gaxha scored the club's first ever senior goal, in a 3–1 defeat against Bray Wanderers at the Carlisle Grounds.