The identification device comprises a light sensor which is focused on the document to be identified by means of an optical system and which can receive light reflected on the document and emitted by light sources incorporated in the device, the light sources being tuned individually to different wavelengths. The method comprises; the emission of light of a controlled wavelength directed towards a region of the document to be checked, the collection of the reflected light on a light sensor by means of an optical focusing system, and the transmission of the signal generated in the light sensor to an interpretation and validation microprocessor.