  We show how the $\mathbb{Z}_{2}$ topological index of a one-dimensional
topological p-wave superconductor can be revealed when driving with a classical
vector potential i.e. an electromagnetic wave, through the quasiparticles
inter-band transition rates. As a function of driving frequency $\omega$, it is
possible to obtain a measure of this topological invariant from the resonance
envelope classifying the two distinct topological phases of the short-range
Kitaev wire. We also propose to probe the topological phase transition in the
model through the responses of the global capacitance in the presence of the
light field and also through the Josephson current between the wire and the
proximity coupled bulk superconductor. The system may also be implemented on
the Bloch sphere allowing alternative ways to measure the $\mathbb{Z}$ and
$\mathbb{Z}_2$ topological invariants through circuit or cavity quantum
electrodynamics.
