CICOSAT COLLEGES, formerly Central Ilocandia College of Science and Technology (CICOSAT), originated with the establishment of Ilocandia Driving Institute (IDI) in 1985 by its founders, Engr. Jose B. Abella and Mrs. Perla E. Abella. The driving school was located at Carlatan, San Fernando City, La Union which was then under the supervision of the Land Transportation Office. On this year, the enterprising owners initially rented a building where classes were conducted. Engr. Abella was the lecturer on engine principles while Mrs. Perla E. Abella took charge of administrative functions as well as taught their students on traffic rules and regulations.