In this work, nonlocal transient dynamic analysis of laminated composite plates using Reddy’s third-order shear deformation theory (TSDT) and Eringen’s nonlocality is presented. The nonlocal governing equations of TSDT are derived employing the Eringen’s stress-gradient constitutive model considering the dynamic effects. Displacement finite element models are developed using a four-noded rectangular conforming element with 8 degrees of freedom per node. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effects of nonlocality on the transient dynamic behavior of laminated composite plates. © 2020, © 2020 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.