Spray paint drying time varies widely depending on the type of paint, surface, environmental conditions, and number of coats applied. Generally:

• Spray paint can be dry to the touch anywhere from 5 minutes to 8 hours after application, but it is best to wait 24 hours for it to fully cure and harden

• Fast-drying spray paints can be touch-dry in about 5 minutes, while acrylic spray paint takes around 30 minutes to 2 hours, lacquer about 3 hours, and oil-based or latex spray paints up to 8 hours to dry fully

• Surface type matters: metal surfaces dry faster (about 10 minutes to touch-dry), plastic takes about 30 minutes, and wood can take 1-2 hours to dry to the touch but up to 24 hours to cure fully due to its porous nature

• Environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and airflow also affect drying time. Warmer temperatures and low humidity speed drying, while cold or humid conditions slow it down

• Multiple coats and thicker layers extend drying time; thin coats dry faster

In summary, expect spray paint to be touch-dry within minutes to a couple of hours depending on type and surface, but allow a full 24 hours for complete drying and curing for best results.